Catch a double dose of Keller WIlliams at The NorVa

Singer, songwriter and guitarist Keller Williams will perform two shows in Norfolk today, and they couldn’t sound more different.

This afternoon, he’ll do a matinee for kids – complete with balloons and confetti. This evening, he’ll take the stage for a three-set show for adults – backed by the Brooklyn-based trio The Pimps of Joytime.

The NorVa in Norfolk will host both shows.

The Fredericksburg-based musician – known as a one-man jam band – released the album “Kids” in 2010 and “Bass” earlier this month. His latest, on SCI Fidelity Records, features Williams on bass guitar and supported by his reggae-funk band Kdubalicious.

From a recent tour stop in Waterbury, Conn., Williams spoke about his concept albums, his future projects and his take on happiness in general.

Why did you record a kids album?

I’ve got 17 records, and it’s just like a constant evolution where I am trying to do different things with my recordings. It’s a concept record just like “Thief” (a 2010 return to bluegrass by Keller and the husband-and-wife duo Larry and Jenny Keel).

It’s a family-friendly record that the parents don’t have to hit “skip” on the CD player in the car due to adult themes, and it connects with the kids on their level.

And my hope is that the parents enjoy listening to it, too. It’s something I’ve been kicking around for years and years, and I finally allowed myself to go there.

You’ve always got something going on. What’s next?

I have another concept album. This will be in digital release only. It’s called “Keys,” and it is all Grateful Dead songs done by myself with piano and vocals.

All the proceeds will go to the Rex Foundation, which was started by the Grateful Dead in the early ’80s. (The foundation gives grants to worthy causes. Also next year, Williams will hit the road with The Travelin’ McCourys, which features the sons of bluegrass musician Del McCoury, Ronnie and Rob.)

What’s your secret to being a happy, good-natured musician?

I’m very, very lucky to be surrounded by wonderful people. And to be able to do what I want with my career, lucky to be touring and just hanging out with my kids (ages 3 and 7). My music is a reflection of what my life is really: it’s real. Patty Jenkins, (757) 446-2298, patty.jenkins@pilotonline.com