Whiskey Wednesdays
The Velvet Whip Arts & Social Club
Philadelphia
July 1, 2026
Tucked away on a small side block in the city’s Callowhill neighborhood, The Velvet Whip Arts & Social Club is one of Philly’s best kept secrets for live music and entertainment. From burlesque shows to jazz jam sessions, the venue has a calendar packed with local talent and a cozy speakeasy vibe. On Wednesday, July 1, The Velvet Whip hosted Whiskey Wednesdays, an event that paired a whiskey tasting with two rousing sets of live jazz, blues and soul music.
Outfitted with plush couches and love seats facing the small stage, the space is warm and intimate. As the band tuned up, the house system bumped smooth electronic tunes from Massive Attack, Floating Points and Amon Tobin. Singer Jakeya Limitless held it down as host while tearing through a soul-stirring set of jazz and soul classics. Backed by Sunny Dee on drums and Dan Kaplowitz on guitar, Limitless kicked things off with a heavy, syncopated cover of Sade's “Sweetest Taboo.” Next, the trio played a jazzy, restrained cover of Bill Withers’ “Just the Two of Us” that allowed Limitless’ crystal clear vocal tone to shine brightly. Dee and Kaplowitz provided a rock-solid backing, locking in deeply as Kaplowitz let loose for a ripping guitar solo. Although I don’t drink, my partner Melissa does, so she accompanied me to enjoy the music and whiskey. As the band took a break, John from High West Whiskey got on the mic and gave a bit of a history lesson about prohibition, American whiskey production and composition. The tasting paired nicely with the music and Velvet Whip’s lowkey, retro vibe.
Once Limitless and the band came back, they tore through the rest of their set. Whether it was their buttery-smooth version of Michael Jackson’s “I Cant Help it,” or a rocking, guitar-heavy take on Roberta Flack’s “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” the repertoire of songs was soulful and tasteful. With a chef on deck serving delicious rice bowls with salmon and chicken skewers, the combination of good music, drinks and food, made for a perfect night out.
