The Purple & Gold Sessions

THE PURPLE & GOLD SESSIONS

MUSIC - CONNECTION - CONVERSATION

"Music is my pathway into other people's hearts" - Melissa James

The Purple & Gold Sessions are a new monthly live music series taking place at The Paradise Bar, Kensal Green.  Join singer-songwriter Melissa James as she hosts a night of live music, performed by her and her musicians alongside a guest artist. This is a chance to be part of a special, curated, intimate performance from two artists — with conversation shared between sets.

Melissa and her guest will speak about their songs: their songwriting process, the lives that have shaped their stories, and what it really means to stay true to your voice in a challenging and uncertain world.  This is a warmly held space of true artistry, musicianship, and connection.

Using music as a pathway to our hearts, this is a needed space in these times.

"Music without purpose is beautiful. Music with purpose is powerful."

THE ARTISTS

Melissa James

London-based singer-songwriter Melissa James blends rootsy blues-folk, gospel and jazz with powerhouse vocals for an authentic, affecting performance. Think Lizz Wright meets Cassandra Wilson, with echoes of Tracy Chapman and Amos Lee.

Tarju Le’Sano 

Tarju Le'Sano is a Birmingham-born, London-based rapper, songwriter and producer, blending hip-hop, jazz, grime and alternative music with big energy and deep lyricism. He has performed at SXSW, Glastonbury, Ronnie Scott's and the Jazz Café — and in 2026, became the first rapper to perform at Westminster Abbey's Royal Commonwealth Service.

**Please kindly note: tickets, once purchased, are non-refundable.