Music
The Bands!
Keenan McKenzie and the riffers
Ft.Dupresha Townsend
We’re kicking off Flying Home weekend in style with Keenan McKenzie & the Riffers, a swing band specializing in original music and tight arrangements inspired by the 1930s and 1940s.
The Riffers bring a high-energy mix of big band reductions and swing-era combo tunes, all crafted with dancers in mind. With over a decade of experience leading bands, Keenan curates every set with sharp attention to tempo, rhythm, and the vibe on the floor.
We’re also thrilled to welcome Dupresha Townsend on vocals—her rich, expressive voice has been featured on several of Keenan’s recordings, and she brings a timeless presence to the bandstand.
It’s the perfect way to launch the weekend: swinging rhythms, brilliant musicianship, and a whole lot of dance floor magic.
The Keenan McKenzie Orchestra
Ft. Brandon Mitchell
On Saturday and Sunday night, Keenan McKenzie will be bringing Big Band Jazz back to the historic Durham Armory, where so many greats once played.
One of our favorite Flying Home moments is hearing the vibraphone ring out in the same room where Lionel Hampton performed—and this year, that magic will be alive again with Brandon Mitchell featured on vibraphone.
Classic swing, incredible musicianship, and a dance floor full of energy—don’t miss it!
The Keenan McKenzie Orchestra
Ft. Laura Windley
We’re closing out Flying Home with something truly special—the Keenan McKenzie Orchestra takes the stage Sunday night with the incomparable Laura Windley on vocals.
Singing in a sweet style with serious rhythmic drive, Laura draws comparisons to greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Ivie Anderson, and Helen Forrest. Her voice captures the essence of the swing era so authentically, you might think you’ve walked into a vintage recording. She can’t help but swing—no matter the tempo—and her conversational take on lyrics brings every song to life.
As jazz writer Michael Steinman puts it: “She’s the Joan Blondell of swing singing: sweet, tender, and lemony all at once. And once you’ve heard her, you won’t mistake her for anyone else.”
With Keenan’s sharp arrangements, top-tier musicianship, and Laura’s timeless vocals, Sunday night promises to be a dreamy, dance-filled sendoff to an unforgettable weekend.
DJS
Head DJ: Omar Myers
Omar has been collecting music for Blues, Swing, and Soul since he was a lil dude. But it wasn’t until he discovered Lindy Hop that he knew he had to get people dancing. He started DJing in 2010, and since then, he's left-clicked tunes all over the world—from Barcelona to Stockholm to Seoul—always with a deep love for the dancers and the music.
Now based in the DC/Baltimore area, Omar is known for crafting sets that keep the floor buzzing and the vibes high. He doesn’t just play records—he creates moments: the kind you’ll still be smiling about after the song ends.
Allison Meeks
Allison began DJing swing music when she was a baby Lindy Hopper in college. Since then, she has become a regular swing DJ in the Durham, N.C. area and in the national dance scene, playing for dancers at events like Lindy Focus, Camp Hollywood, CalBal, All Balboa Weekend and more.
She’s passionate about sharing swing music that inspires new and experienced dancers alike. She’s a fan of catchy melodies, small group arrangements, and a good clarinet solo (not necessarily in that order).
Allison has only missed one Flying Home—last year, when she and Keenan were welcoming their child (we couldn’t really complain that she didn’t make it). We’re so excited she’s back behind the booth this year, ready to keep the floor swinging with her signature mix of joy, groove, and musical know-how.
Dave BarrY
Dave hasn’t missed a single Flying Home—he was even part of it back when it was the Bull City Swingout! This year, he’s back spinning tunes and MCing late nights with his signature blend of hype, humor, and heartfelt swing.
Since finding Lindy Hop in 2012 (and never saying no to a dance), Dave’s become a Southeast scene staple. Armed with a mic and a law degree he’s put to far better use, he’s known for keeping dancers informed, energized, and entertained.
His DJ sets deliver oomph—starting with 1930s swing and ending with a groovy twist, often featuring hidden gems unearthed through his side project, The Jazz Garden. At home in Atlanta, Dave gives new life to forgotten vinyl and builds fantasy big bands in his head. We’re thrilled to have him back.