When Alexus Lee began working at CAV RESTAURANT, she didn’t think that the job would become a platform for her true passion - music. What started as a bussing day job quickly became a stepping stone for a much larger career at the eclectic restaurant. Today, Alexus serves as CAV’s Special Events Manager, and performs for the restaurant audience as well.
Music has always been part of her life. Her family has a storied history in music dating back to before she was born. Her grandfather, father, and mother play numerous instruments including the guitar, piano, and bass. She honed her craft singing in high school productions, and eventually went on to enroll in the Berklee College of Music in Boston in 2010. Always an overachiever, Alexus graduated ahead of schedule in 2013.
Upon graduation, Alexus knew that she wanted to pursue music as a career but needed a job to make ends meet. Necessity brought the young singer to CAV. Her aunt was working at the beloved restaurant as a bartender, and suggested her to the late, great owner Sylvia Moubayed for an interview. “The rest is history,” Alexus says. She quickly moved up as a busser and then a bartender, and soon found herself climbing the ranks to Sylvia’s personal assistant.
Over time, the two grew close. Alexus traveled to parts of Europe and the United States, but she always wound up back at CAV. Lee remarks that she shared a tight bond with the dynamic restaurant owner, stating, “Sylvia always encouraged my musical pursuits, often saying she wanted to bring music back to CAV, like they had done so many years ago.”
Sadly, Sylvia Moubayed passed away in 2017, leaving the entire staff, patrons, and the dining community devastated. “Losing Sylvia was like losing a friend, grandmother, and mentor all in one,” Alexus says. Sylvia’s son John Moubayed took over the restaurant, and soon fulfilled his mother’s wish by giving Alexus the chance to share her musical talents at CAV. Alexus can be found performing at CAV on Jazz Wednesdays from 6:30-9pm.
Throughout her life, Alexus has been most proud of her achievements in music. She believes that music is a universal language that “transcends all else.” She has rather big things in store for 2019, including several performances scheduled in various venues all over Rhode Island, Boston, and New York as a solo act and as part of a group. In addition, more of her original music will be soon released on major streaming services such as iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon Music. She also plans to continue working with special events and singing at CAV.
“Music brings together people from all backgrounds to share in very intimate and special moments. I treat both my music and my work at CAV with respect and care, and cherish the opportunity to connect with people and to spread light.”
Providence | 751-9164
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