BWW Exclusive: 5 Favorites with Clyde Alves- ON THE TOWN Star Shares Inspirations for His Birdland Concert!

Beloved Broadway star of the current On The Town revival, Clyde Alves will ignite Birdland audiences with an evening of original music on Monday July 20 at 7 p.m.. Personal, raw and melodic, Clyde's songs are born from the crucible of his life in the theatre and beyond-pulsating with folk, rock, soul and reggae sounds.

The Fred Astaire Award-winning Broadway vet-On the Town (Ozzie), The Music Man (Tommy Djilas), Wicked, Hairspray, Oklahoma!, Anything Goes-will be joined by Andy Blanco on the cajon, Eric B. Davis on guitar. Backing up Clyde with soaring harmonies will be fellow Broadway performers Robyn Hurder (Nice Work If You Can Get It, Grease, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Chicago) and Rebecca Riker (An American In Paris, Addams Family, Rock of Ages, A Chorus Line).

Clyde Alves plays Birdland (315 West 44th St) on Monday, July 20 at 7 p.m. There is a $25 cover charge and $10 food and beverage minimum. Tickets and information are available at www.birdlandjazz.com or call 212-581-3080.

Below, Alves gives us a taste Monday's concert by sharing five of his musical inspirations from YouTube. Check them out below!

Martin Sexton- Women and Wine

"In my opinion there is simply no singer/ songwriter who quite has a command over their voice and instrument in live performance as does Martin Sexton. I aim for his overall fluidity and ease as a solo artist. There is also a surprise guest in this video that warms my heart!"

John Mayer- Free Fallin' (Tom Petty cover)

"John Mayer is a master at songwriting and playing that guitar. Here is a cool cover he delivers of Tom Petty's Free Fallin. He plays with a couple pals who subtly enrich the tune. Something I love to do with my pals which you'll see in my show."

Gavin DeGraw- Belief

"Gavin DeGraw is at his best when sitting at a piano. Belief is a beautiful song that got me wanting to write more with the idea of performing for people. This man's raw voice is something I connect with."

The Civil Wars- Billie Jean (Michael Jackson cover)

"Funny enough I just discovered this video! Two things I absolutely love are Michael Jackson and The Civil Wars! Their playful connection in this clip reminds me of the satisfaction I have singing with my wife, Robyn!"

Ray Lamontagne- Forever my Friend

"Amazing artist who keeps folk current. Listening to all his music on a long drive up to Maine or Canada reminds me that being a real artist and songwriter doesn't necessarily mean you need 10 hit singles on every record. His music is deep and true. Here is on the other hand one of His hits. Fun jam! Enjoy!"