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Editor's note: The Alexandria Brief is a sponsor of Crab Shack Live 2026. Publisher Ryan Belmore and his wife, Jen, have attended the event since moving to Alexandria in 2021. The Alexandria Brief believes in the power of music and the community it creates, and is proud to support Jack Kilby's efforts to engage, educate, and inspire students. What Kilby has built is a true Alexandria original — and exactly the kind of story The Alexandria Brief exists to tell and support.
A Del Ray home that doubles as one of Alexandria's most quietly influential music studios will throw open its doors in June for the 10th anniversary edition of Crab Shack Live.
Alexandria native Jack Kilby will celebrate a decade of Crab Shack Music on Friday, June 12, at 211 E. Oxford Ave., with a concert running from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and hosted by Deacon Izzy. Known locally as "The Shack," the century-old house has evolved into a fully equipped recording studio, lesson space, and live music venue where Kilby has produced more than 50 releases, taught over 20 students, and hosted countless local artists.
"Crab Shack has always been about creating a space where people can make music at a high level but still feel completely at home," Kilby said. "Ten years in, it's amazing to see how many artists and students have been part of that story."
The night's headliners bring serious credentials.
Sy Smith is an acclaimed vocalist and songwriter who has performed alongside Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Usher, Macy Gray, and Chris Botti, and appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live in March. Her latest release, "Until We Meet Again," includes "Why Do You Keep Calling Me," recorded at Crab Shack Music.
Langston Hughes II, an alto saxophonist and Prince George's County native now based in New York City, holds degrees from Howard University and Juilliard and has performed at Blues Alley, the Kennedy Center, and the DC Jazz Festival.
The evening will also feature the return of the Student Revue, showcasing performers ranging from 9-year-old beginners to adult musicians.
The event also marks the launch of Crab Shack Music's record label, with the release of "Crab Shack Live, Vol. 1: Hot Mess Trio" on May 8. Vinyl copies will be available at the show, with additional releases planned later this year.
Food will be provided by local Mediterranean restaurant La'Baik.
The event is sponsored by The Alexandria Brief; Summit Strategies, a Northern Virginia public affairs firm; and Adrianna Vallario Compass, a local real estate agent.
Tickets are available here. The venue is at 211 E. Oxford Ave.
