Urban Classic Presents: The Music of Earth, Wind & Fire

Urban Classic is Minneapolis’ latest funk, soul, and R&B band. They present an evening of hit songs by one of the greatest bands in history: Earth, Wind & Fire.

The group is led by drummer Michael Bland (Prince & The New Power Generation, Soul Asylum, Maxwell, Chaka Khan). He is joined by longtime associate and collaborator, pianist Tommy Barbarella (Prince, Jonas Brothers). The band features smooth soul vocals and a four-piece horn section. They deliver a level of excellence and musicality rarely seen in the Twin Cities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear some of the best music ever written, and performed by the best band anywhere: Urban Classic.

Drummer Michael Bland is best known for his work with Prince and the New Power Generation. Starting in 1989, he was a member of NPG. Also, Bland played with Prince live and on albums for seven years.

In 2010, Bland became a member of Nick Jonas & the Administration, a side project of Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers. He and other former members of The New Power Generation, including keyboardist Tommy Barbarella, were part of Nick’s band. Furthermore, he worked with Vulfpeck, playing drums on 2017 single “Hero Town”.

Tommy Barbarella is one of the most active keyboard players in Minneapolis and beyond. His work with Prince’s New Power Generation (1991-96) put him on the map. And, his playing with regional funk/soul favorites Greazy Meal cemented his reputation as a go-to funk and pop keyboardist. Recently he has performed with Miley Cyrus, Nick Jonas, and a reunited NPG.

G-Sharp, vocals
Mark Lickteig, vocals
Jay Bee, vocals
Tommy Barbarella, keys
Michael Bland, MD and drums
Geoff LeCrone, guitars
Ron Long, bass
Scott Agster, trombone
Riley Helgeson, trumpet
Josh May, trumpet
John Bertsch, saxophone