Vertical Current is a band on the rise, a name on the lips of music lovers in one of the greatest musical cities in America, Philadelphia. The band was started in 2009 by local trumpeter and composer Christopher Michael Stevens, while pursuing a music degree from Temple University. Since then, Vertical Current has become the go to band for visiting artists from the likes of Grammy Award winners Chrisette Michele and Kelly Price to the awe-inspiring Frank McComb. Additionally, the band has opened for a number of notable artists including The Robert Glasper Experiment, Raheem DeVaughn, and Eric Roberson to name a few.

Individually, the members of Vertical Current have traveled throughout the world, performing and recording with an array of celebrated and award winning artists including Roberta Flack, John Legend, Jazmine Sullivan, Jill Scott, The Roots, Lady Alma and more. It’s no surprise that their interaction with such amazing artists and composers has further kindled Vertical Current’s passion to create and perform at the highest level.

VC’s brand of music is a unique blend of genres that is intended to uplift and inspire. Strong melodies and funky rhythms are characteristic of their classic style. The band currently has 5 albums and a single available. aRe (2011), Bright Side Of Midnight (2014), After Midnight (2017), The Future Is Bright (2018), The Rain (feat. Khari Mateen) (Single) (2022), and A Vertical Current Christmas (2024) showcase the many ways Vertical Current gets down. The band is in the process of making a new album, to be released in 2025.

Stay tuned for upcoming dates! Experiencing Vertical Current’s electrifying performances will leave you feeling truly inspired!