BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Dakota - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Dakota
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260424T152752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T134019Z
UID:10003415-1781636400-1781643600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Naturally 7
DESCRIPTION:“Their vocal play sent dopamine levels soaring” – The Arts Desk\n  \nCertain experiences burn themselves in your memory from the very first encounter. The jaw-dropping audio pyrotechnics that Naturally 7 put on display every night absolutely belong in that category. Here\, “a capella group” vastly underplays what they create onstage. Thus\, they had to coin a phrase – “Vocal Play” – to more accurately depict what they do.  \nNaturally 7 is more than a tightly orchestrated collection of great singers. There\, they transform their voices into actual human instruments\, effortlessly producing music of any genre. Moreover\, their vocal choreography is so perfectly interwoven that they compelled the musical maestro himself\, Quincy Jones\, to declare them “The best a capella group in the world!”  \nOver their vibrant twenty-year career\, they’ve completed three world tours – nearly 500 shows – with the incomparable Michael Bublé. Also\, they shared billing with global phenomenon Coldplay – including a sold out show at the Barclays Center. In addition to Bublé\, Naturally 7 has worked with Stevie Wonder\, Diana Ross\, Lionel Richie\, Ludacris\, The Roots\, and more. Counted among their world-famous fans are President Barack Obama\, Will.I.Am.\, Ellen DeGeneres\, Craig Ferguson\, and Bill and Melinda Gates. Also\, Jay Leno\, Allan Titchmarsh\, Mo’Nique\, Jools Holland\, and Arsenio Hall\, along with countless others. \nNaturally 7 is “Ricky“ Lee Ricardo Cort\, Rod Eldridge\, Kelvin “Kelz“ Mitchell\, Sean Simmonds\, Dwight Stewart\, Roger Thomas\, and Warren Thomas. They consider it a privilege to do what they love\, bringing so much joy to their fans every night. It’s exactly what you would expect. When something is pure magic\, it’s destined to withstand the test of time. Naturally… \nNaturally 7. \nRecommended for fans of Take 6\, Tonic Sol-Fa\, Gregory Porter and Rockapela.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/naturally-7-jun16-2026/
CATEGORIES:Pop,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/700x400-Naturally7.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T213000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260410T164348Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T150015Z
UID:10003397-1781638200-1781645400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Mavis Staples w/ Special Guest Lucius at The Ordway
DESCRIPTION:“an eternal voice… which still informs pop music today” – Billboard\n  \nGrim days call for fierce love. And Mavis Staples\, one of the most enduring figures in American music\, lays it down. 2025’s Sad and Beautiful World marks the fifteenth solo album from a national treasure and multigenerational talent. Here\, Mavis stands side by side with us in the face of dangers she knows all too well. The record spans seven decades of the American songbook\, a range nearly as vast as Mavis’ career. On it\, she reinvents timeless songs as well as including original music.  \nNow 86\, Mavis has performed since the age of eight. After starting out in the Staple Singers more than seventy years ago\, she remains the group’s lone surviving member. Here\, she still carries her family’s gifts and knowledge with her as a living heritage.  \nShe considered retiring in 2023 but found she has too much left to express through music. And now\, despite our dark days\, as she said in the wake of her 85th birthday party last year\, “You have to stay hopeful and have faith that things are going to get better.” She can’t keep us from the danger facing the country or magically restore the progress that’s being undone. However\, she knows from her own experience that people can find a path through\, a way to keep going.  \nThus\, Staples may be one of the last true ones standing. Now\, she isn’t waiting around to be revered for the wisdom she brings. Here\, she’s too busy still leading the charge\, still showing us how it’s done. Steadfast in triumph and adversity\, Mavis Staples still makes music—and history—just when we need her most. \n  \n \nGrammy-nominated indie-pop band Lucius delivers a mesmerizing experience of mirrored kinship and honesty. Also\, they have earned a reputation for their engaging live performances and spellbinding harmonies. In 2025\, the band released their fourth studio album\, Lucius\, which Rolling Stone called “the best album of their career.” Lucius’ most personal and purposeful album to date explores relationships\, motherhood\, and life’s complexities with a unique vulnerability that the band’s familial nature made possible. The New Yorker praises\, “The band’s new self-titled album reaches the pinnacle of a vibrant\, harmonic enterprise\,” while Paste describes their sound as “girl-group revivalism\, cosmic pop\, and a kind of bicoastal harmonizing that once echoed through western canyons.”  \nThroughout their acclaimed career\, Lucius has performed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”. Also\, BBC’s “Later! with Jools Holland”\, PBS’ “Austin City Limits” and “The Kelly Clarkson Show”. Lucius are Holly Laessig\, Jess Wolfe\, and Peter Lalish. \nRecommended for fans of The Staple Singers\, Bettye LaVette\, Steve Earle and Blind Boys of Alabama.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/mavis-staples-at-the-ordway/2026-06-16/
CATEGORIES:Americana,Pop,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/700x400-MavisStaples-offsite.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T213000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260410T164348Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T150015Z
UID:10003398-1781724600-1781731800@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Mavis Staples w/ Special Guest Lucius at The Ordway
DESCRIPTION:“an eternal voice… which still informs pop music today” – Billboard\n  \nGrim days call for fierce love. And Mavis Staples\, one of the most enduring figures in American music\, lays it down. 2025’s Sad and Beautiful World marks the fifteenth solo album from a national treasure and multigenerational talent. Here\, Mavis stands side by side with us in the face of dangers she knows all too well. The record spans seven decades of the American songbook\, a range nearly as vast as Mavis’ career. On it\, she reinvents timeless songs as well as including original music.  \nNow 86\, Mavis has performed since the age of eight. After starting out in the Staple Singers more than seventy years ago\, she remains the group’s lone surviving member. Here\, she still carries her family’s gifts and knowledge with her as a living heritage.  \nShe considered retiring in 2023 but found she has too much left to express through music. And now\, despite our dark days\, as she said in the wake of her 85th birthday party last year\, “You have to stay hopeful and have faith that things are going to get better.” She can’t keep us from the danger facing the country or magically restore the progress that’s being undone. However\, she knows from her own experience that people can find a path through\, a way to keep going.  \nThus\, Staples may be one of the last true ones standing. Now\, she isn’t waiting around to be revered for the wisdom she brings. Here\, she’s too busy still leading the charge\, still showing us how it’s done. Steadfast in triumph and adversity\, Mavis Staples still makes music—and history—just when we need her most. \n  \n \nGrammy-nominated indie-pop band Lucius delivers a mesmerizing experience of mirrored kinship and honesty. Also\, they have earned a reputation for their engaging live performances and spellbinding harmonies. In 2025\, the band released their fourth studio album\, Lucius\, which Rolling Stone called “the best album of their career.” Lucius’ most personal and purposeful album to date explores relationships\, motherhood\, and life’s complexities with a unique vulnerability that the band’s familial nature made possible. The New Yorker praises\, “The band’s new self-titled album reaches the pinnacle of a vibrant\, harmonic enterprise\,” while Paste describes their sound as “girl-group revivalism\, cosmic pop\, and a kind of bicoastal harmonizing that once echoed through western canyons.”  \nThroughout their acclaimed career\, Lucius has performed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”. Also\, BBC’s “Later! with Jools Holland”\, PBS’ “Austin City Limits” and “The Kelly Clarkson Show”. Lucius are Holly Laessig\, Jess Wolfe\, and Peter Lalish. \nRecommended for fans of The Staple Singers\, Bettye LaVette\, Steve Earle and Blind Boys of Alabama.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/mavis-staples-at-the-ordway/2026-06-17/
CATEGORIES:Americana,Pop,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/700x400-MavisStaples-offsite.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260702T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260702T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260515T120958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T203128Z
UID:10003479-1783018800-1783026000@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Eric Roberson
DESCRIPTION:“Brilliant singer with a voice like red velvet cake.” – Jill Scott \n  \nIn the realm of R&B/soul\, Eric Roberson remains a trailblazer of authenticity and creativity. A Grammy-nominated singer\, songwriter\, and producer\, Eric has built a legacy as an independent artist for over two decades. Here\, he redefines what it means to create Honest Music. \nA true pioneer of the independent movement\, Eric has consistently delivered timeless music while maintaining complete artistic freedom. His seventeenth studio album\, 2022’s Lessons\, showcased his songwriting mastery. Further\, the lead single and its remix —featuring Anthony Hamilton\, Raheem DeVaughn\, and Kevin Ross—earned widespread acclaim. In 2026\, Eric released his eighteenth studio album\, Beautifully All Over The Place (BAOTP)\, exclusively on his website. Thus\, this release further solidified his reputation for pushing boundaries in R&B and soul music.  \nRoberson not only earns accolades as a singer-songwriter but also commands respect as an educator. There\, he served as professor at Berklee College of Music from 2019 to 2024. Moreover\, he mesmerized audiences as a featured vocalist on NBC’s That’s My Jam with Jimmy Fallon. Additionally\, his enduring contributions have earned him multiple Grammy nominations and a BETJ Virtual Award. Also\, he served as Artistic Director at the National Museum of African American Music. He is the newly elected Chapter Governor of the Philadelphia Chapter Board for The Recording Academy. \nRoberson has earned acclaim from his peers: \n● “Tremendous ability to make personal songs accessible to a mass audience.” – Rich Harrison\, songwriter/producer \n● “One of the hottest songwriters out right now.” – Dwele\, recording artist \n● “Eric Roberson. One word – PHENOMENAL!” – Bryan Michael Cox\, award-winning songwriter/producer \nEric Roberson’s story is more than just music — it testifies to perseverance\, innovation\, and an unwavering commitment to soulful storytelling. \nRecommended for fans of Leela James\, Dwele\, Lalah Hathaway and Floetry.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/eric-roberson-jul2-2026/
CATEGORIES:R&B,Soul
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-EricRoberson.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260703T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260703T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260415T192442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T140148Z
UID:10003408-1783105200-1783112400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Ladies of Soul\, Vol. 4
DESCRIPTION:Celebrating one of the greatest R&B soundtracks ever assembled!\nLadies of Soul\, Vol. 4 \nThe Waiting to Exhale Soundtrack\, produced by Babyface\, is widely regarded as one of the greatest R&B soundtracks ever assembled. There\, it featured powerhouse artists like Whitney Houston\, Toni Braxton\, Mary J. Blige\, Brandy\, and Aretha Franklin. Furthermore\, it produced multiple major Billboard hits\, including Houston’s “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” (a #1 on the Billboard Hot 100). Also\, Braxton’s “Let It Flow\,” and Blige’s “Not Gon’ Cry\,” all of which dominated R&B and pop charts in the mid-1990s. \nThe evening will feature powerhouse vocal performances backed by an A-List band\, delivering this beloved album in its entirety. \nFeaturing an all-star Twin Cities lineup: \nVocalists –\nSolorah The Essence\nAshley Commodore\nMonique Blakey \nMusicians –\nTony Axtell\, bass\nDeevo\, guitar\nRAWTWHYLAH\, drums\nTommy Barbarella\, keyboards \nRecommended for fans of Whitney Houston\, Mary J. Blige\, Toni Braxton and Aretha Franklin.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/ladies-of-soul-vol-4-jul3-2026/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/700x400-LadiesOfSoulVol4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260709T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260709T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260603T203800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T133232Z
UID:10003505-1783623600-1783630800@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:BZ3 Organ Trio: Album Release Show
DESCRIPTION:Minneapolis-based funk-soul-jazz powerhouse BZ3 Organ Trio is thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated second album\, Note Salad. Here\, the album features the synergistic talents of organist Brian Ziemniak\, guitarist David Feily\, and drummer Kevin Washington. Furthermore\, the new record serves up a masterful blend of deep-pocket grooves\, complex progressive-rock-tinged arrangements\, and explosive jazz improvisation. \nThe album features Dr. Mambo’s Combo legendary vocalist Margaret Cox. There\, she joins the band for an explosive run through of Aretha Franklin’s “Baby I Love You”. Additionally\, Mint Condition’s Stokley Williams adds steel drum and percussion to the simmering groove of their original “Magic Carpet”.  \nRecommended for fans of Jimmy Smith\, Joey DeFrancesco\, Jack McDuff and Dr. Lonnie Smith.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/bz3-organ-trio-album-release-show-jul9-2026/
CATEGORIES:Funk,Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/700x400-BZ3-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260711T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260711T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260611T203452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260615T135000Z
UID:10003513-1783796400-1783803600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Sounds of Blackness feat. Jamecia Bennett
DESCRIPTION:“Bennett has the personality\, pizzazz\, and powerful pipes to fill an arena.” – Star Tribune\n  \nExperience an unforgettable evening of rhythm\, soul\, history\, and inspiration! Here\, award-winning vocalist Jamecia Bennett joins forces with the legendary Sounds of Blackness for The Journey of the Drum. \nMore than a concert\, The Journey of the Drum is a powerful musical celebration. Moreover\, they showcase songs from the ancestral rhythms of Africa to gospel\, R&B\, jazz\, soul\, funk\, and contemporary music. Sounds of Blackness under the direction of Gary Hines has spent decades uplifting audiences around the world. Furthermore\, they do this with a signature blend of gospel\, soul\, and socially conscious music. Additionally\, they are known worldwide for iconic hits such as “Optimistic”\, “The Pressure”\, “Soul Holiday”\, and “Testify”. \nPowerhouse vocalist Jamecia Bennett’s commanding voice and magnetic stage presence have made her one of the Midwest’s most celebrated performers. Now\, she steps into her role as the new featured lead vocalist of Sounds of Blackness. Together\, they bring passion\, authenticity and unmatched artistry to every performance. \nWhether you’re a lifelong fan or experiencing their music for the first time\, The Journey of the Drum promises to be an inspiring and soul-stirring event that will leave you energized\, empowered\, and moved. \nCome celebrate the rhythm that connects us all. \nRecommended for fans of Yolanda Adams\, Avery*Sunshine\, Kindred the Family Soul and Rahsaan Patterson.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/sounds-of-blackness-feat-jamecia-bennett-jul11-2026/
CATEGORIES:Gospel,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/700x400-JameciaBennett.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260712T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260712T193000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260414T172954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T203618Z
UID:10003401-1783877400-1783884600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Rebirth Brass Band
DESCRIPTION:“there is not a band on earth that is better. Stunning.” – Flea\, Red Hot Chili Peppers\n  \nFor almost four decades\, the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band has been “stunning” fans. Further\, they are loved worldwide for their fiery live shows and rich musical catalog. Their trademark sound pays homage to the New Orleans brass band tradition. Also\, they weave a tapestry that combines elements of jazz\, funk\, soul\, R&B. Then\, they incorporate more of the sounds from the streets they grew up on. Their sound has traveled from their legendary twenty-five-year run of Tuesday nights at the Maple Leaf to stages all over the world. Rebirth is the soundtrack of the Crescent City and her premier musical ambassador. \nRebirth was founded by brothers Phil and Keith Frazier over thirty-five years ago. They began their career playing on the sidewalks of the French Quarter and quickly landed gigs at second line parades. Those auspicious beginnings have led to thousands of shows to music aficionados everywhere\, including heads of state and royalty. \nThe band’s unique “soundtrack of New Orleans” has also garnered admiration from artists of all genres. They’ve shared the stage and collaborated with everyone from the Grateful Dead to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Also\, Maceo Parker\, Green Day\, U2\, James Brown\, 311\, G-Love\, MuteMath\, Juvenile\, Train\, Big Freedia\, Ani DiFranco\, and Galactic. Further\, Allen Toussaint\, Neville Brothers\, Quincy Jones and Trombone Shorty. \nRecommended for fans of Trombone Shorty\, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band\, Kermit Ruffins and Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/rebirth-brass-band-jul12-2026/2026-07-12/1/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/700x400-RebirthBrassBand.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260712T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260712T220000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260414T172954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T203618Z
UID:10003402-1783886400-1783893600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Rebirth Brass Band
DESCRIPTION:“there is not a band on earth that is better. Stunning.” – Flea\, Red Hot Chili Peppers\n  \nFor almost four decades\, the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band has been “stunning” fans. Further\, they are loved worldwide for their fiery live shows and rich musical catalog. Their trademark sound pays homage to the New Orleans brass band tradition. Also\, they weave a tapestry that combines elements of jazz\, funk\, soul\, R&B. Then\, they incorporate more of the sounds from the streets they grew up on. Their sound has traveled from their legendary twenty-five-year run of Tuesday nights at the Maple Leaf to stages all over the world. Rebirth is the soundtrack of the Crescent City and her premier musical ambassador. \nRebirth was founded by brothers Phil and Keith Frazier over thirty-five years ago. They began their career playing on the sidewalks of the French Quarter and quickly landed gigs at second line parades. Those auspicious beginnings have led to thousands of shows to music aficionados everywhere\, including heads of state and royalty. \nThe band’s unique “soundtrack of New Orleans” has also garnered admiration from artists of all genres. They’ve shared the stage and collaborated with everyone from the Grateful Dead to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Also\, Maceo Parker\, Green Day\, U2\, James Brown\, 311\, G-Love\, MuteMath\, Juvenile\, Train\, Big Freedia\, Ani DiFranco\, and Galactic. Further\, Allen Toussaint\, Neville Brothers\, Quincy Jones and Trombone Shorty. \nRecommended for fans of Trombone Shorty\, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band\, Kermit Ruffins and Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/rebirth-brass-band-jul12-2026/2026-07-12/2/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/700x400-RebirthBrassBand.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260714T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260714T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260320T154611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T203853Z
UID:10003361-1784055600-1784062800@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:James Hunter Six
DESCRIPTION:“James Hunter is one of the best voices\, and best kept secrets\, in British R&B and soul.” – Van Morrison\n  \nThe James Hunter Six returns with 2026’s Off The Fence\, delivering another dose of timeless rhythm & soul. British singer\, songwriter and Grammy-nominated James Hunter has been a legendary fixture in the scene for over three decades. There\, his gritty voice and sharp songwriting have earned him acclaim around the world. This new record features a rare duet with longtime collaborator Van Morrison (on “Ain’t That A Trip”). Here\, this marks a full-circle moment for the artist hailed by MOJO magazine as “The United Kingdom’s Greatest Soul Singer.” \nHunter and his six-piece band have toured the world for decades from tiny clubs to large festivals. Hunter also has shared stages with Mavis Staples\, Aretha Franklin\, BB King\, Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, and Van Morrison. Whether belting out up-tempo R&B or crafting candle-lit ballads\, James Hunter is a must-see artist. Moreover\, he effortlessly draws from the depths of his musical well\, leaving audiences captivated and craving more. \nOff The Fence is a landmark album for James Hunter himself for a number of different reasons. Thus\, in many ways it represents his past\, his present and his future. The new album is the perfect amalgam of everything that is great about James Hunter’s songwriting\, delivery and outlook. Furthermore\, it also marks a fresh start. Also\, this is his first release on Dan Auerbach’s (The Black Keys) Easy Eye Sound label. 2026 is going to be a big year for Hunter\, striking the world with music that matters. Get ready to ride with The James Hunter Six. \nRecommended for fans of Van Morrison\, Ray Charles\, Sugaray Rayford and Jackie Wilson.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/james-hunter-six-jul-2026/2026-07-14/
CATEGORIES:Blues,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/700x400-JamesHunter.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260320T154611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T203853Z
UID:10003362-1784142000-1784149200@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:James Hunter Six
DESCRIPTION:“James Hunter is one of the best voices\, and best kept secrets\, in British R&B and soul.” – Van Morrison\n  \nThe James Hunter Six returns with 2026’s Off The Fence\, delivering another dose of timeless rhythm & soul. British singer\, songwriter and Grammy-nominated James Hunter has been a legendary fixture in the scene for over three decades. There\, his gritty voice and sharp songwriting have earned him acclaim around the world. This new record features a rare duet with longtime collaborator Van Morrison (on “Ain’t That A Trip”). Here\, this marks a full-circle moment for the artist hailed by MOJO magazine as “The United Kingdom’s Greatest Soul Singer.” \nHunter and his six-piece band have toured the world for decades from tiny clubs to large festivals. Hunter also has shared stages with Mavis Staples\, Aretha Franklin\, BB King\, Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, and Van Morrison. Whether belting out up-tempo R&B or crafting candle-lit ballads\, James Hunter is a must-see artist. Moreover\, he effortlessly draws from the depths of his musical well\, leaving audiences captivated and craving more. \nOff The Fence is a landmark album for James Hunter himself for a number of different reasons. Thus\, in many ways it represents his past\, his present and his future. The new album is the perfect amalgam of everything that is great about James Hunter’s songwriting\, delivery and outlook. Furthermore\, it also marks a fresh start. Also\, this is his first release on Dan Auerbach’s (The Black Keys) Easy Eye Sound label. 2026 is going to be a big year for Hunter\, striking the world with music that matters. Get ready to ride with The James Hunter Six. \nRecommended for fans of Van Morrison\, Ray Charles\, Sugaray Rayford and Jackie Wilson.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/james-hunter-six-jul-2026/2026-07-15/
CATEGORIES:Blues,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/700x400-JamesHunter.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260717T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260717T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260505T174212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260612T153224Z
UID:10003449-1784314800-1784322000@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:St. Paul Peterson: Funk Friday
DESCRIPTION:Effortlessly spanning funk\, soul\, jazz\, rock and improvisational groove.\n  \nFor six years\, Funk Friday has quietly built a global following of fans and incredible musicians—one minute at a time. Created by St. Paul Peterson\, the series has become a space where world-class players connect\, collaborate\, and push the music forward. \nOn July 17\, that energy lands at the Dakota. Here\, experience an intimate\, one-night gathering of players with deep musical lineage and modern sensibility. Moreover\, St. Paul brings the spirit of Funk Friday off the screen and into the room. \nAdditionally\, the evening features an all-star collective of musicians with deep ties across iconic artists and eras. Thus\, these artists have worked with Earth\, Wind & Fire\, Daryl Hall\, Michael Jackson\, Prince\, Janet Jackson\, and Mint Condition. Also\, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis\, Fleetwood Mac\, Keith Urban\, and The New Power Generation. \nSpecial guests include legendary percussionist Lenny Castro (Toto\, Fleetwood Mac; collaborations with Adele\, Stevie Nicks\, and Eric Clapton. Additionally\, credits on iconic recordings including “Africa” and “Tears in Heaven”). \nPercussionist Robert “Sput” Searight lives at the cutting edge of improvised music. He has won Grammys for his work with Kirk Franklin and Snarky Puppy and is the co-founder of Ghost-Note. He has worked with Erykah Badu\, Kendrick Lamar\, Toto and others. \nKeyboardist Roger Smith played Hammond organ with the iconic Tower of Power from 1998-2025. Additionally\, he worked with Freddie King\, Leon Russell\, Willie Nelson\, Waylon Jennings and more. \nAlso Featuring: \nTommy Barbarella\, keyboards (Prince/NPG/Greazy Meal)\nJason Peterson DeLaire\, keyboards and vocals (Michael Bolton/Donny Osmond)\nJoe Finger\, drums (Boz Scaggs)\nJoe Elliott\, guitar (David Sanborn) \nThis performance is presented in support of Free Guitars 4 Kids\, helping provide instruments and access to music education for young musicians. \nRecommended for fans of Prince\, Morris Day & The Time\, and Eric Gales\, George Benson.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/st-paul-peterson-funk-friday-jul17-2026/
CATEGORIES:Funk,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-StPaulPeterson.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260721T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260721T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260506T172503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T204252Z
UID:10003452-1784660400-1784667600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Liv Warfield: Honey & Whiskey
DESCRIPTION:“A jaw-dropper. Warfield sounds totally in command.” – NPR\n  \nStep into a night of raw soul\, electric blues\, and unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll! Here\, Liv Warfield brings Honey & Whiskey to the stage. It’s a powerful tribute to two of music’s most iconic and emotionally fearless voices: Etta James and Janis Joplin. \nThis show is not an imitation… it’s a full-bodied reinterpretation. With grit and vulnerability. Liv channels the spirit of these legendary women while making every note her own. From deep\, heart-wrenching ballads to explosive\, high-octane anthems\, Honey & Whiskey lives in the space where pain meets power and soul meets fire. \nBacked by an all-star band:\nBrandon Commodore\, drums\nBobby G\, guitar\nTommy Barbarella\, keys \nTogether\, they create a sound that is timeless\, bold\, and deeply felt! Moreover\, they honor the legacy while pushing it forward. \nExpect an unforgettable night of classic soul\, blues\, and rock ‘n’ roll…stripped down\, lit up\, and delivered in truth. \nRecommended for fans of Prince\, Etta James\, Janis Joplin and Tina Turner.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/liv-warfield-honey-whiskey-jul21-2026/
CATEGORIES:Blues,R&B,Soul
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-LivWarfield.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260728T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260728T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260421T185409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T133931Z
UID:10003412-1785265200-1785272400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Allen Stone
DESCRIPTION:“committed to vintage soul… old-fashioned grooves” – New York Times\n  \nSoul/R&B luminary Allen Stone has enraptured global audiences with his electrifying performances and soulful melodies. Here\, he embodies the essence of classic soul legends. Moreover\, his genre-defying style\, blending funk\, gospel\, folk-rock\, and soul\, has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following.  \nStone’s journey to musical stardom commenced in Chewelah\, Washington. There\, his upbringing immersed him in gospel music as a pastor’s son. Relocating to Seattle\, he tirelessly toured the West Coast in his ’87 Buick\, swiftly gaining acclaim for dynamic live shows. Soon\, he was playing up to 200 dates annually alongside luminaries such as Stevie Wonder and Al Green. Also\, Dave Matthews Band\, Erykah Badu\, Gary Clark Jr. and Chris Stapleton. Thus\, he further solidified his status as a tour de force in the music industry. Alongside his prolific touring schedule\, Stone has graced national television screens. His appearances include The Kelly Clarkson Show\, Jimmy Kimmel Live\, The Today show\, and a Celebrity Mentor on American Idol. \nStone continues to garner critical acclaim with his latest body of work\, 2024’s Mystery. Furthermore\, he composed the title track in collaboration with PJ Morton. This release brings infectious rhythms and emotional depth\, solidifying Stone’s place as a powerful voice in modern soul music. \nRecommended for fans of Mayer Hawthorne\, PJ Morton\, Gary Clark\, Jr. and Lake Street Dive.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/allen-stone-jul28-2026/
CATEGORIES:Americana,Pop,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/700x400-AllenStone.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260807T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260515T115922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135514Z
UID:10003477-1786129200-1786136400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Talib Kweli
DESCRIPTION:“the vanguard for deep-thinking conscious rap” – Pitchfork\n  \nTalib Kweli is one of the most lyrically gifted\, socially aware and politically insightful rappers working today. The Brooklyn-based MC has earned his stripes with over twenty years of recording and performing. \n“I’m a touring artist. I’m an artist that’s internationally known. Not just a local artist at this point in my career. I’m cognizant of the fact that what I do is beyond where it started. I am trying to reach the apex of where I am now\, but without turning my back on or dismissing what I’ve done before.” \nAfter twenty years of releasing mesmerizing music\, Kweli stands as one of the world’s most talented and accomplished hip-hop artists. He works regularly with Yasiin Bey as one-half of Black Star\, and partners with producer Hi-Tek for Reflection Eternal. Then\, he collaborates with Kanye West\, Pharrell Williams\, Just Blaze\, J Dilla\, and Madlib. However\, his landmark solo material sets him apart. Here\, Kweli commands attention by delivering top-tier lyricism. Also\, he crafts captivating stories and can rhyme over virtually any type of instrumental. \nKweli founded Javotti Media in 2011\, which is self-defined as “a platform for independent thinkers and doers.” The company\, named after his paternal grandmother\, released his 2011 album\, Gutter Rainbows. Kweli has set out to make Javotti Media into a media powerhouse that releases music\, films and books. \nRecommended for fans of De La Soul\, The Roots\, Yasiin Bey and Fugees.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/talib-kweli-aug7-2026/2026-08-07/1/
CATEGORIES:Hip-Hop,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-TalibKweli-.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260807T213000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260807T233000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260515T115922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135514Z
UID:10003481-1786138200-1786145400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Talib Kweli
DESCRIPTION:“the vanguard for deep-thinking conscious rap” – Pitchfork\n  \nTalib Kweli is one of the most lyrically gifted\, socially aware and politically insightful rappers working today. The Brooklyn-based MC has earned his stripes with over twenty years of recording and performing. \n“I’m a touring artist. I’m an artist that’s internationally known. Not just a local artist at this point in my career. I’m cognizant of the fact that what I do is beyond where it started. I am trying to reach the apex of where I am now\, but without turning my back on or dismissing what I’ve done before.” \nAfter twenty years of releasing mesmerizing music\, Kweli stands as one of the world’s most talented and accomplished hip-hop artists. He works regularly with Yasiin Bey as one-half of Black Star\, and partners with producer Hi-Tek for Reflection Eternal. Then\, he collaborates with Kanye West\, Pharrell Williams\, Just Blaze\, J Dilla\, and Madlib. However\, his landmark solo material sets him apart. Here\, Kweli commands attention by delivering top-tier lyricism. Also\, he crafts captivating stories and can rhyme over virtually any type of instrumental. \nKweli founded Javotti Media in 2011\, which is self-defined as “a platform for independent thinkers and doers.” The company\, named after his paternal grandmother\, released his 2011 album\, Gutter Rainbows. Kweli has set out to make Javotti Media into a media powerhouse that releases music\, films and books. \nRecommended for fans of De La Soul\, The Roots\, Yasiin Bey and Fugees.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/talib-kweli-aug7-2026/2026-08-07/3/
CATEGORIES:Hip-Hop,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-TalibKweli-.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260526T182224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T125427Z
UID:10003495-1786474800-1786482000@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Stanley Clarke N•4EVER
DESCRIPTION:“the baddest bassist on the planet” – All About Jazz \n  \nStanley Clarke has attained “living legend” status during his over fifty-year career as a bass virtuoso. He is an NEA Jazz Master and four-time Grammy winner. Also\, he is the first bassist in history who doubles on acoustic and electric bass with equal ferocity. Moreover\, he is the first jazz-fusion bassist ever to headline tours\, selling out shows worldwide. A veteran of over forty albums\, he won the 2011 Best Contemporary Jazz Album Grammy for The Stanley Clarke Band. Clarke co-founded the seminal fusion group Return to Forever with Chick Corea and Lenny White. Then\, in 2012 Return to Forever won a Grammy Award and Latin Grammy for Best Jazz Instrumental Album\, Forever. \nIn definitive innovator fashion\, jazz legend Stanley Clarke reimagines the genre with his 2025 double album Last Train to Sanity. Here\, he created this album as a gift for his fans. Last Train to Sanity encompasses music Clarke has been sharing around the world with his newest band Stanley Clarke N•4EVER. \nThis new band was originally formed out of a desire to honor Clarke’s longtime friend and collaborator Chick Corea. However\, 4EVER has quickly become a fusion force all its own\, furthering the tradition of cultivating the cutting edge. True to the evolution of jazz fusion\, 4EVER brings a powerful combination of jazz harmony and improvisation with rock\, funk\, R&B\, hip-hop and electronic music influences. \nClarke will release Last Train to Sanity as a double-CD/vinyl package. Also\, he will release a deluxe package that features collectors‘ items. He will also release the record in conjunction with an exclusive coffee-table book. This is filled with rare clippings\, photographs\, and stories from Stanley’s illustrious journey in music to date. \nRecommended for Fans of Jaco Pastorius\, Marcus Miller\, Victor Wooten and John Patitucci. \n📸: Matt Lorentzen
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/stanley-clarke-n4ever-aug11-2026/2026-08-11/1/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-StanleyClarkeN4EVER.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T213000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T233000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260526T182224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T125427Z
UID:10003496-1786483800-1786491000@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Stanley Clarke N•4EVER
DESCRIPTION:“the baddest bassist on the planet” – All About Jazz \n  \nStanley Clarke has attained “living legend” status during his over fifty-year career as a bass virtuoso. He is an NEA Jazz Master and four-time Grammy winner. Also\, he is the first bassist in history who doubles on acoustic and electric bass with equal ferocity. Moreover\, he is the first jazz-fusion bassist ever to headline tours\, selling out shows worldwide. A veteran of over forty albums\, he won the 2011 Best Contemporary Jazz Album Grammy for The Stanley Clarke Band. Clarke co-founded the seminal fusion group Return to Forever with Chick Corea and Lenny White. Then\, in 2012 Return to Forever won a Grammy Award and Latin Grammy for Best Jazz Instrumental Album\, Forever. \nIn definitive innovator fashion\, jazz legend Stanley Clarke reimagines the genre with his 2025 double album Last Train to Sanity. Here\, he created this album as a gift for his fans. Last Train to Sanity encompasses music Clarke has been sharing around the world with his newest band Stanley Clarke N•4EVER. \nThis new band was originally formed out of a desire to honor Clarke’s longtime friend and collaborator Chick Corea. However\, 4EVER has quickly become a fusion force all its own\, furthering the tradition of cultivating the cutting edge. True to the evolution of jazz fusion\, 4EVER brings a powerful combination of jazz harmony and improvisation with rock\, funk\, R&B\, hip-hop and electronic music influences. \nClarke will release Last Train to Sanity as a double-CD/vinyl package. Also\, he will release a deluxe package that features collectors‘ items. He will also release the record in conjunction with an exclusive coffee-table book. This is filled with rare clippings\, photographs\, and stories from Stanley’s illustrious journey in music to date. \nRecommended for Fans of Jaco Pastorius\, Marcus Miller\, Victor Wooten and John Patitucci. \n📸: Matt Lorentzen
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/stanley-clarke-n4ever-aug11-2026/2026-08-11/2/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-StanleyClarkeN4EVER.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260812T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260812T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260430T185535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260504T133913Z
UID:10003447-1786561200-1786568400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Braxton Cook
DESCRIPTION:“Cook’s newest record… is another kaleidoscopic vignette” – Downbeat\n  \nWhen the vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Braxton Cook first started working on the album that would become 2025’s Not Everyone Can Go\, he was going through several transitions that he just couldn’t ignore. Last year\, Cook spent lots of time on the road — in Europe and Asia\, along with two United States tours. “I was just very busy\, and trying to juggle that with family\, it was a lot to manage\,” Cook said. Then\, in a moment of self-reflection\, he looked back on the past year\, noticed a theme emerging. Thus\, he came to this conclusion: It was OK to let go of things that weren’t serving him any longer. Transitions were natural as he stepped into fatherhood. “It was only pushing me more in that direction of understanding\,” he continued. “There’s grief that comes along with having to let certain things go to make time for the things I truly value.”  \nOne can hear Cook breaking through on Not Everyone Can Go. Here\, his signature mix of jazz and R&B feels indebted to similar hybrids of yesteryear. Musically\, the album conjures images of bright evening sunshine\, when the temperature begins to cool. Not quite Quiet Storm\, instead\, the album dabbles between the margins\, which won’t surprise Cook’s fans. He’s released acclaimed albums like Somewhere In Between\, No Doubt and Who Are You When No One Is Watching?. There\, he’s made a career of blurring the lines between genres\, landing on a sound that isn’t just one thing. Moreover\, while that’s made his music tough to pin down\, that also makes it all the more intriguing. Additionally\, the fact that you can’t label it just R&B or just jazz lends to the music’s attraction. \nRecommended for fans of Robert Glasper\, Hiatus Kaiyote\, Kamasi Washington and Thundercat. \n📸: Ricardo Nagaoka
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/braxton-cook-aug12-2026/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/700x400-BraxtonCook.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260505T191429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T140751Z
UID:10003450-1787166000-1787173200@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Spyro Gyra
DESCRIPTION:“these… grooves are state-of-the-art” – All About Jazz\n  \nIn 2024\, Jay Beckenstein and band started its observation of the fiftieth anniversary of the band. What started as a diversion\, something that was just for fun (and twenty-five cents at the door) continues its evolution into 2025. It began inauspiciously when Beckenstein and a few musician friends in Buffalo\, NY organized a get together on their shared night off from working in bands that actually made money. It was a simple\, humble idea with a name that was likewise simple and humble\, “Tuesday Night Jazz Jam”.  \nFast forward fifty years and this jazz super-group has released over thirty albums\, garnering gold and platinum along the way. They’ve played over 10\,000 concerts on six continents. Further\, Spyro Gyra has maintained its standards of excellence. Thus\, these standards have sustained them on the “A list” of live attractions in jazz for fifty years. Renowned bass player Will Lee once referred to the ensemble as a “well-oiled road machine” as a tribute to their daunting schedule\, bringing their music to fans around the globe. \nFans of the band are familiar with the group’s rise to international prominence from humble beginnings in Buffalo\, New York. That’s when a few area musicians arranged for a weekly gig of playing less commercial music on everyone’s night off. Soon the word got around; the core group was joined by many musicians to come and have fun. And customers started showing up\, too\, prompting the club owner to press Beckenstein for a band name. Beckenstein offered up this late night\, tipsy answer\, “You can call it ‘spirogyra’”\, algae he had studied once. The next week\, he came back and there it was\, misspelling and all\, and so it began in 1974. \nRecommended for fans of Return to Forever\, Yellowjackets\, David Sanborn and Brecker Brothers. \n📸: David White
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/spyro-gyra-aug19-2026/2026-08-19/1/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-SpyroGyra.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T210000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T230000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260505T191429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T140751Z
UID:10003451-1787173200-1787180400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Spyro Gyra
DESCRIPTION:“these… grooves are state-of-the-art” – All About Jazz\n  \nIn 2024\, Jay Beckenstein and band started its observation of the fiftieth anniversary of the band. What started as a diversion\, something that was just for fun (and twenty-five cents at the door) continues its evolution into 2025. It began inauspiciously when Beckenstein and a few musician friends in Buffalo\, NY organized a get together on their shared night off from working in bands that actually made money. It was a simple\, humble idea with a name that was likewise simple and humble\, “Tuesday Night Jazz Jam”.  \nFast forward fifty years and this jazz super-group has released over thirty albums\, garnering gold and platinum along the way. They’ve played over 10\,000 concerts on six continents. Further\, Spyro Gyra has maintained its standards of excellence. Thus\, these standards have sustained them on the “A list” of live attractions in jazz for fifty years. Renowned bass player Will Lee once referred to the ensemble as a “well-oiled road machine” as a tribute to their daunting schedule\, bringing their music to fans around the globe. \nFans of the band are familiar with the group’s rise to international prominence from humble beginnings in Buffalo\, New York. That’s when a few area musicians arranged for a weekly gig of playing less commercial music on everyone’s night off. Soon the word got around; the core group was joined by many musicians to come and have fun. And customers started showing up\, too\, prompting the club owner to press Beckenstein for a band name. Beckenstein offered up this late night\, tipsy answer\, “You can call it ‘spirogyra’”\, algae he had studied once. The next week\, he came back and there it was\, misspelling and all\, and so it began in 1974. \nRecommended for fans of Return to Forever\, Yellowjackets\, David Sanborn and Brecker Brothers. \n📸: David White
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/spyro-gyra-aug19-2026/2026-08-19/2/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-SpyroGyra.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T203000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260512T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135447Z
UID:10003468-1787855400-1787862600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Musiq Soulchild
DESCRIPTION:“slyly assured\, smoothly sexy… neo-soul” – AllMusic\n  \nMusiq Soulchild is a pioneering hip-hop soul artist celebrated for his unique sound and raw talent. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia\, Musiq built his reputation by beatboxing for MCs. Additionally\, he built his name freestyling on the open mic circuit\, and performing acapella for strangers on the streets. Moreover\, his musical style is deeply inspired by the R&B and soul sounds of the 1970s. Thus\, he adopted the name “Soulchild” to pay homage to his greatest influences: Stevie Wonder\, Donny Hathaway\, and Marvin Gaye. \nMusiq Soulchild’s career took off in the late 1990s. There\, he transitioned from street performances to signing a major record deal with Def Jam in 2000. He quickly became a leading figure in the “neo-soul” movement\, bringing a fresh and authentic sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Over the years\, he has released several successful albums and sold millions of records globally. \nIn September 2017\, Musiq released his eighth studio album\, Feel The Real. Here\, this twenty-four-track double album featured the hit single “Start Over.” The album’s success was marked by its peak performance on the charts and earned Musiq his thirteenth Grammy nomination. Furthermore\, this solidified his status as one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation. \nThroughout his illustrious career\, Musiq Soulchild has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Also\, this includes accolades from Billboard\, BET\, ASCAP\, BMI\, and Soul Train. His talent has also been recognized by MTV\, the American Music Awards\, and the NAACP. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark\, making him a true artist and a lasting influence in the world of R&B and soul. \nRecommended for fans of D’Angelo\, Erykah Badu\, Bill Withers and Meshell Ndegeocello.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/musiq-soulchild-aug-2026/2026-08-27/1/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-MusiqSoulchild.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T210000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T230000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260512T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135447Z
UID:10003469-1787864400-1787871600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Musiq Soulchild
DESCRIPTION:“slyly assured\, smoothly sexy… neo-soul” – AllMusic\n  \nMusiq Soulchild is a pioneering hip-hop soul artist celebrated for his unique sound and raw talent. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia\, Musiq built his reputation by beatboxing for MCs. Additionally\, he built his name freestyling on the open mic circuit\, and performing acapella for strangers on the streets. Moreover\, his musical style is deeply inspired by the R&B and soul sounds of the 1970s. Thus\, he adopted the name “Soulchild” to pay homage to his greatest influences: Stevie Wonder\, Donny Hathaway\, and Marvin Gaye. \nMusiq Soulchild’s career took off in the late 1990s. There\, he transitioned from street performances to signing a major record deal with Def Jam in 2000. He quickly became a leading figure in the “neo-soul” movement\, bringing a fresh and authentic sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Over the years\, he has released several successful albums and sold millions of records globally. \nIn September 2017\, Musiq released his eighth studio album\, Feel The Real. Here\, this twenty-four-track double album featured the hit single “Start Over.” The album’s success was marked by its peak performance on the charts and earned Musiq his thirteenth Grammy nomination. Furthermore\, this solidified his status as one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation. \nThroughout his illustrious career\, Musiq Soulchild has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Also\, this includes accolades from Billboard\, BET\, ASCAP\, BMI\, and Soul Train. His talent has also been recognized by MTV\, the American Music Awards\, and the NAACP. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark\, making him a true artist and a lasting influence in the world of R&B and soul. \nRecommended for fans of D’Angelo\, Erykah Badu\, Bill Withers and Meshell Ndegeocello.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/musiq-soulchild-aug-2026/2026-08-27/2/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-MusiqSoulchild.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T203000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260512T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135447Z
UID:10003470-1787941800-1787949000@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Musiq Soulchild
DESCRIPTION:“slyly assured\, smoothly sexy… neo-soul” – AllMusic\n  \nMusiq Soulchild is a pioneering hip-hop soul artist celebrated for his unique sound and raw talent. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia\, Musiq built his reputation by beatboxing for MCs. Additionally\, he built his name freestyling on the open mic circuit\, and performing acapella for strangers on the streets. Moreover\, his musical style is deeply inspired by the R&B and soul sounds of the 1970s. Thus\, he adopted the name “Soulchild” to pay homage to his greatest influences: Stevie Wonder\, Donny Hathaway\, and Marvin Gaye. \nMusiq Soulchild’s career took off in the late 1990s. There\, he transitioned from street performances to signing a major record deal with Def Jam in 2000. He quickly became a leading figure in the “neo-soul” movement\, bringing a fresh and authentic sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Over the years\, he has released several successful albums and sold millions of records globally. \nIn September 2017\, Musiq released his eighth studio album\, Feel The Real. Here\, this twenty-four-track double album featured the hit single “Start Over.” The album’s success was marked by its peak performance on the charts and earned Musiq his thirteenth Grammy nomination. Furthermore\, this solidified his status as one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation. \nThroughout his illustrious career\, Musiq Soulchild has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Also\, this includes accolades from Billboard\, BET\, ASCAP\, BMI\, and Soul Train. His talent has also been recognized by MTV\, the American Music Awards\, and the NAACP. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark\, making him a true artist and a lasting influence in the world of R&B and soul. \nRecommended for fans of D’Angelo\, Erykah Badu\, Bill Withers and Meshell Ndegeocello.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/musiq-soulchild-aug-2026/2026-08-28/1/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-MusiqSoulchild.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T210000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T230000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260512T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135447Z
UID:10003471-1787950800-1787958000@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Musiq Soulchild
DESCRIPTION:“slyly assured\, smoothly sexy… neo-soul” – AllMusic\n  \nMusiq Soulchild is a pioneering hip-hop soul artist celebrated for his unique sound and raw talent. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia\, Musiq built his reputation by beatboxing for MCs. Additionally\, he built his name freestyling on the open mic circuit\, and performing acapella for strangers on the streets. Moreover\, his musical style is deeply inspired by the R&B and soul sounds of the 1970s. Thus\, he adopted the name “Soulchild” to pay homage to his greatest influences: Stevie Wonder\, Donny Hathaway\, and Marvin Gaye. \nMusiq Soulchild’s career took off in the late 1990s. There\, he transitioned from street performances to signing a major record deal with Def Jam in 2000. He quickly became a leading figure in the “neo-soul” movement\, bringing a fresh and authentic sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Over the years\, he has released several successful albums and sold millions of records globally. \nIn September 2017\, Musiq released his eighth studio album\, Feel The Real. Here\, this twenty-four-track double album featured the hit single “Start Over.” The album’s success was marked by its peak performance on the charts and earned Musiq his thirteenth Grammy nomination. Furthermore\, this solidified his status as one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation. \nThroughout his illustrious career\, Musiq Soulchild has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Also\, this includes accolades from Billboard\, BET\, ASCAP\, BMI\, and Soul Train. His talent has also been recognized by MTV\, the American Music Awards\, and the NAACP. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark\, making him a true artist and a lasting influence in the world of R&B and soul. \nRecommended for fans of D’Angelo\, Erykah Badu\, Bill Withers and Meshell Ndegeocello.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/musiq-soulchild-aug-2026/2026-08-28/2/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-MusiqSoulchild.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260829T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260829T203000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260512T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135447Z
UID:10003472-1788028200-1788035400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Musiq Soulchild
DESCRIPTION:“slyly assured\, smoothly sexy… neo-soul” – AllMusic\n  \nMusiq Soulchild is a pioneering hip-hop soul artist celebrated for his unique sound and raw talent. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia\, Musiq built his reputation by beatboxing for MCs. Additionally\, he built his name freestyling on the open mic circuit\, and performing acapella for strangers on the streets. Moreover\, his musical style is deeply inspired by the R&B and soul sounds of the 1970s. Thus\, he adopted the name “Soulchild” to pay homage to his greatest influences: Stevie Wonder\, Donny Hathaway\, and Marvin Gaye. \nMusiq Soulchild’s career took off in the late 1990s. There\, he transitioned from street performances to signing a major record deal with Def Jam in 2000. He quickly became a leading figure in the “neo-soul” movement\, bringing a fresh and authentic sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Over the years\, he has released several successful albums and sold millions of records globally. \nIn September 2017\, Musiq released his eighth studio album\, Feel The Real. Here\, this twenty-four-track double album featured the hit single “Start Over.” The album’s success was marked by its peak performance on the charts and earned Musiq his thirteenth Grammy nomination. Furthermore\, this solidified his status as one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation. \nThroughout his illustrious career\, Musiq Soulchild has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Also\, this includes accolades from Billboard\, BET\, ASCAP\, BMI\, and Soul Train. His talent has also been recognized by MTV\, the American Music Awards\, and the NAACP. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark\, making him a true artist and a lasting influence in the world of R&B and soul. \nRecommended for fans of D’Angelo\, Erykah Badu\, Bill Withers and Meshell Ndegeocello.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/musiq-soulchild-aug-2026/2026-08-29/1/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-MusiqSoulchild.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260829T210000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260829T230000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260512T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135447Z
UID:10003473-1788037200-1788044400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Musiq Soulchild
DESCRIPTION:“slyly assured\, smoothly sexy… neo-soul” – AllMusic\n  \nMusiq Soulchild is a pioneering hip-hop soul artist celebrated for his unique sound and raw talent. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia\, Musiq built his reputation by beatboxing for MCs. Additionally\, he built his name freestyling on the open mic circuit\, and performing acapella for strangers on the streets. Moreover\, his musical style is deeply inspired by the R&B and soul sounds of the 1970s. Thus\, he adopted the name “Soulchild” to pay homage to his greatest influences: Stevie Wonder\, Donny Hathaway\, and Marvin Gaye. \nMusiq Soulchild’s career took off in the late 1990s. There\, he transitioned from street performances to signing a major record deal with Def Jam in 2000. He quickly became a leading figure in the “neo-soul” movement\, bringing a fresh and authentic sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Over the years\, he has released several successful albums and sold millions of records globally. \nIn September 2017\, Musiq released his eighth studio album\, Feel The Real. Here\, this twenty-four-track double album featured the hit single “Start Over.” The album’s success was marked by its peak performance on the charts and earned Musiq his thirteenth Grammy nomination. Furthermore\, this solidified his status as one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation. \nThroughout his illustrious career\, Musiq Soulchild has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Also\, this includes accolades from Billboard\, BET\, ASCAP\, BMI\, and Soul Train. His talent has also been recognized by MTV\, the American Music Awards\, and the NAACP. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark\, making him a true artist and a lasting influence in the world of R&B and soul. \nRecommended for fans of D’Angelo\, Erykah Badu\, Bill Withers and Meshell Ndegeocello.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/musiq-soulchild-aug-2026/2026-08-29/2/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-MusiqSoulchild.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260602T153246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T133255Z
UID:10003502-1789153200-1789160400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Bettye LaVette Duo
DESCRIPTION:“Classic soul singing doesn’t get any better.” – New York Times\n  \nAn intimate evening with Bettye LaVette\, accompanied by Etienne Stadwijk on keyboards. \nThe New York Times hailed Bettye LaVette as “one of the great soul interpreters of her generation”. Here\, she serves as song stylist\, able to take a song from any genre and make it completely her own. To quote the late\, great George Jones\, “Bettye is truly a ‘singer’s singer’.” \nThese intimate shows feature Bettye performing songs and telling stories from throughout her sixty-four-year career. Furthermore\, hearing Bettye in this setting\, stripped down to just her voice and keyboards\, provides a very captivating experience. \nHer career began in 1962\, at sixteen years old\, in Detroit\, Michigan. Atlantic Records released her first single\, “My Man-He’s A Lovin’ Man”. Then\, throughout the 60s and 70s\, she recorded for several major labels\, but never broke through. Additionally\, she appeared in the Broadway musical Bubbling Brown Sugar alongside Honi Coles and Cab Calloway. \nSince her resurgence in 2000\, the R&B Foundation awarded her its Pioneer Award\, and she has won several Blues Music Awards. Also\, both the Blues Hall of Fame and R&B Hall of Fame inducted her. Moreover\, the Americana Music Association presented her with the Legacy Award\, and she has received seven Grammy nominations. \nAccording to Steve Jordan\, who produced her last three albums: “When Bettye gets a hold of a song\, it becomes her song. It’s like she wrote it. Bettye LaVette is like a combination of Frank Sinatra\, Billie Holiday and Miles Davis.” \nNow\, LaVette is eighty years old and in her sixty-fourth year in show business. Here\, she is one of very few who were active during the birth of soul music in the 1960s who still perform and create vital recordings today. \nRecommended for fans of Bob Moses\, Sam Cooke\, Andra Day and Martha Reeves & The Vandellas.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/bettye-lavette-duo-sep11-2026/
CATEGORIES:R&B,Soul
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/700x400-BettyeLaVette.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260913T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260913T230000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260528T151231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T125412Z
UID:10003500-1789326000-1789340400@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Dominique Fils-Aimé
DESCRIPTION:“so much soul… unmistakably sunlit style” – Spin\n  \nDominique Fils-Aimé has established herself as one of today’s leading voices in vocal jazz. Also\, the Montreal singer-songwriter has won two Juno Awards. Her latest album\, Our Roots Run Deep (2023)\, earned the 2024 JUNO Award for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. Additionally\, it received the 2024 Félix Award for Best Jazz Album at ADISQ. There\, this affirms the importance of her artistic vision at the crossroads of jazz\, soul\, and blues. \nIn February 2026\, she unveiled the second chapter of her sophomore trilogy with new album My World Is The Sun. With this project\, Fils-Aimé continues her exploration of sonic\, creative\, and spiritual freedom. \nOn stage\, she offers an immersive performance that invites audiences to delve into the roots of their soul. Moreover\, she is guided by a profound quest for connection. She released her first live album Live at the Montreal International Jazz Festival in 2025. Here\, it stands as a testament to the strength of her stage presence and her ability to forge an intimate bond with her audience. \nIn recent years\, she has performed on many prestigious stages. For example\, Blue Note New York\, Blue Note Los Angeles\, Monterey Jazz Festival and North Sea Jazz Festival. Additionally\, she has opened for Melody Gardot\, Diana Krall\, and Jamie Cullum in many European theaters. \nIn 2026\, Dominique Fils-Aimé will bring her new album to the stage on a world tour. Thus\, she has announced concerts in Europe at La Maroquinerie (Paris) and Le Botanique (Brussels). Further\, dates in Canada at the Montreal International Jazz Festival\, and across the United States. \nRecommended for fans of Erykah Badu\, Gregory Porter\, Lianne La Havas and José James. \n📸: Vladim Vilain
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/dominique-fils-aime-sep13-2026/
CATEGORIES:Jazz,R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-DominiqueFilsAime.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260924T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260924T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T162040
CREATED:20260527T152428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T125357Z
UID:10003497-1790276400-1790283600@www.dakotacooks.com
SUMMARY:Jon B
DESCRIPTION:“fusion of seductive hip-hop soul and gushy R&B” – NME\n  \nJon B is a consummate artist. He is an accomplished musician and noted songwriter and producer with several gold and platinum records under his belt. His is a richly textured body of music\, a testament to one man’s love for all things soul. His beginning was seasoned by early influences including Duran Duran\, Inxs\, Marvin Gaye\, Michael Jackson\, Babyface\, Prince and Sade. Then\, he spent the summer after high school writing\, producing and recording forty incredible songs. There\, he began making his rounds to all major record labels. \nWithin a few months\, he’d met Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and his wife\, Tracy Edmonds. Soon\, they signed Jon to their label\, Edmonds Record Group. Then\, the relationship between Jon and Edmonds immediately bore fruit. His debut album Bonafide went platinum and the single “Someone to Love” received a Grammy nomination. His sophomore effort\, Cool Relax\, also went platinum and earned him multiple Billboard Music Award nominations. Additionally\, he received a Soul Train Music Award nomination for Best Male Single for “Are U Still Down”. This featured the legendary Tupac Shakur collaborating with Jon in the studio. \nJon became an in-demand producer\, working with Nas\, Faith Evans\, and many more. His appreciation for music and modern culture saw him break free of the strictures of R&B. Also\, he incorporated hip-hop\, rock\, reggae and jazz into his versatile sound. \nJon went on to write and produce records for Luther Vandross and Toni Braxton. Also\, he worked with Gina Thompson\, Color Me Badd\, Az Yet\, as well as remixing Michael Jackson’s “You Are Not Alone”. \nRecommended for fans of Boyz II Men\, Babyface\, Mint Condition and New Edition.
URL:https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/jon-b-sep24-2026/2026-09-24/1/
CATEGORIES:R&B
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dakotacooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/700x400-JonB.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR