Contemporary jazz artist Paula Atherton, recognized for her Billboard-charting work, will headline a Valentine's Day performance in Houston on February 14, 2026, while simultaneously releasing her latest single. The event, titled 'City Lights & Love Notes: A Valentine's Jazz Affair,' presented by Wise Zuri Entertainment at The Community Collective Houston, represents a significant cultural moment for the city's music scene and highlights Atherton's growing influence within the genre.
Atherton's career trajectory demonstrates a deliberate evolution beyond typical genre boundaries. Her body of work, accessible at PaulaAthertonMusic.com, spans acclaimed albums, chart-recognized singles, and live performances that have established her as both a respected performer and a cultural connector. This dual role is further evidenced by The Paula Atherton Show, where she facilitates conversations between artists and the public, solidifying her position as a thoughtful voice within contemporary jazz.
The Houston performance is structured as an immersive evening, beginning with a 6:00 PM cocktail hour. VIP attendees will experience a curated three-course dinner followed by a full concert featuring Atherton alongside special guest performers Ronnie Coleman, Jr. & Merlot Music. Known for her sultry saxophone lines, expressive vocals, and commanding stage presence, Atherton's performances are noted for creating intimate yet expansive musical experiences that blend smooth grooves with heart-stirring ballads.
Concurrent with the concert announcement is the release of Atherton's latest single, 'Make It Happen.' The track, characterized by confident grooves and a strong melodic core, is available for pre-save and reflects her signature blend of contemporary jazz and soulful expression. This release continues Atherton's pattern of delivering music that appeals to both seasoned jazz listeners and new audiences, reinforcing her artistic evolution. The single's forward momentum mirrors her career approach, which peers regard as marked by consistency, craft, and credibility rather than trend-chasing.
For the Houston music community, this event represents more than a Valentine's Day concert. It offers jazz lovers, couples, and music enthusiasts an opportunity to witness an artist actively shaping the future of her genre. Atherton's performance at The Community Collective Houston serves as a case study in how contemporary jazz artists are expanding their reach through multi-faceted careers that include performance, recording, and media engagement. The implications extend to local cultural economies, as events of this caliber can elevate a city's artistic profile and attract audiences seeking sophisticated entertainment experiences.
Ticket availability for the February 14 performance is managed through www.wisezuri.com. The convergence of a major live performance and new music release underscores Atherton's current creative momentum and her commitment to building a legacy defined by artistic depth and meaningful audience connection.
