Dakota

Tinsley Ellis: Labor of Love Tour
2026-02-24 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
“A potent set of fierce folk blues… joyous and triumphant” – Living Blues

According to Atlanta-based blues guitarist, singer and songwriter Tinsley Ellis, his new, first-ever solo acoustic album, 2024’s Naked Truth is both “a departure and an arrival.” Ellis has recorded and traveled the world for over four decades. There, he delivers his feral, guitar-fueled, original electric blues-rock to ever-growing audiences at concert halls, festivals, and clubs. Naked Truth is steeped in the folk-blues traditions of Muddy Waters, Skip James, Son House, Robert Johnson and Leo Kottke.
To the casual fan, this might seem to be a new direction. But for Ellis, it’s an extension of his music, as he taps into the raw essence of the blues. “This is a record I’ve always wanted to make and one that my longtime fans have been asking for.” Also, he notes that he’s included an acoustic mini-set in his concert performances for years.
On Naked Truth, Ellis swaps his blistering, guitar-fueled full-band workouts for equally passionate, soul-searching acoustic folk blues. His famed guitar chops and musical creativity are on full display throughout the album’s twelve songs, including nine originals.
Ellis has brought his music to fans live in person to all fifty United States. Additionally, he has performed in Canada, across Europe, Australia and South America. He’s earned the love and respect of many of his fellow musicians. Thus, he shares stages with Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, The Allman Brothers, Warren Haynes, Oliver Wood, Buddy Guy, the Tedeschi Trucks Band, Gov’t Mule, Widespread Panic, and more. Also, legends including Otis Rush, James Cotton, Gregg Allman, Jimmy Buffett, Son Seals, Koko Taylor and Albert Collins. Furthermore, mega-star guitarist Joe Bonamassa calls Ellis “a national treasure.”
Recommended for fans of Coco Montoya, Tommy Castro, Albert Cummings and Walter Trout.

Shemekia Copeland
2026-02-25 19:00 - 21:00
“Copeland is the greatest blues singer of her generation.” – Washington Post

Shemekia Copeland possesses one of the most instantly recognizable and deeply soulful roots music voices of our time. The multi-Grammy nominee is beloved and honored worldwide for the fearlessness, honesty and humor of her revelatory songs. Additionally, she is celebrated for her winning, engaging personality. The Chicago Tribune says, “Copeland is the greatest female blues vocalist working today. There’s no mistaking the majesty of her instrument, nor the ferocity of her delivery.”
On Copeland’s latest album, 2024’s Blame It On Eve, the songs all hit hard. Here, jaw-dropping performances instantly take hold and command repeated listening. “There’s serious business on the new album,” Copeland says. “But there are a lot of smiles here too, a lot of joyous moments. It’s my blues for sure but it’s the brighter side. Issues are always important to me, but so is rocking, dancing and just having fun. And that’s something we all can all agree on.”
With Blame It On Eve, Copeland embarks on what she calls “a vacation from all the heaviness.” It features twelve new songs that tackle subjects as important as a woman’s right to choose and climate change. However, it also leaves space for Copeland to have fun and unwind. Here, Copeland is inspired throughout.
Forbes declared, “Shemekia is fearless, honest and hopeful…she holds back nothing as she delivers hard-hitting musical truths.” Further, John Prine paid her a huge compliment when he said, “She simply doesn’t sound like anybody else.” And none other than Copeland’s friend, the legendary Mavis Staples, announced, “I am so happy Shemekia is delivering these songs that the world needs to hear. Her voice is strong and soulful, and her message comes from her heart.”
Recommended for fans of Koko Taylor, Bettye LaVette, Ruthie Foster and Buddy Guy.

Holly Bowling
2026-02-26 19:00 - 21:00
“heady, layered improv-rock excursions distilled into crystalline solo piano pieces” – Rolling Stone

Solo pianist Holly Bowling is an artist who repeatedly defies convention, breaks ceilings, and eludes simplistic labels. Here, she does this while bringing virtuosic playing, emotional immersion, and a thirst for invention to everything that she does. She’s been acclaimed by Rolling Stone and has jammed with a long list of impressive company. This includes Bob Weir, Jim James, Warren Haynes, John Scofield, Branford Marsalis, and many more. Moreover, Holly has established herself as a virtuoso pianist with her own musical voice.
Holly has fostered a strong sense of identity while musically shapeshifting to the task at hand. She’s gone from joining Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh for extended explorations of “Dark Star,” to recording dance tracks with LP Giobbi. She is a frequent guest of Greensky Bluegrass. With them, she recorded 2023’s The Iceland Sessions EP, and appeared 2022’s Stress Dreams. Her solo piano arrangements span across genres, featuring songs from The National and Nine Inch Nails to Phish and the Grateful Dead. Additionally, they have been featured in several independent films, and led to performances from Carnegie Hall to Red Rocks.
Holly arrived as an exciting outlier on 2015’s Distillation Of A Dream: The Music Of Phish Reimagined For Solo Piano. Then, 2016’s Better Left Unsung, featuring the music of the Grateful Dead, landed in Billboard’s Top 25 Classical Albums.
During the pandemic, Holly toured national parks, recording audience-less performances against the backdrop of some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes. As she does with her live-audience performances, Holly played to the room.
Bowling reimagined more Grateful Dead staples on 2020’s Seeking All That’s Still Unsung. Holly looks to flip the script once more with an upcoming album of original compositions.
Recommended for fans of Phish, The Grateful Dead, Greensky Bluegrass and The National.

The Pharcyde
2026-02-27 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-02-27 21:00 - 23:00
“self-conscious rap smarts and postmodern pop-cult potpourri” – Pitchfork

In the early 90’s, gangsta rap consumed the airwaves, and the majority of West Coast rappers strapped on their Locs, Chuck Taylor’s & Ben Davis’. However, The Pharcyde decidedly maintained a willfully weird vision, staying true to themselves. There, with their left field but still South-Central sensibility, rap had seen few groups so self-deprecating and so smart. Moreover, they featured four visionary rappers adroitly able to split the difference between helium-voiced and hard-core.
Listening to Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde two full decades after its release, its sense of timeliness is unmistakable. Every song on the album inverts a hoary hip-hop cliché. The album features classics like “Oh Shit,” “Otha Fish”, “Ya’ Mama,” and hit single, “Passing Me By”. Thus, it’s not surprising that it went Platinum and garnered comparisons to De La Soul and Tribe Called Quest. Everyone from Pitchfork Media to The Source has hailed it as one of the greatest albums ever made.
Speaking on the passage of time, their second release, LabCabInCalifornia, has revealed exactly how far-reaching The Pharcyde’s vision was. There, they enlisted a young, unknown James Yancey aka J DILLA to produce beats, including the classic “Runnin”. Then, they collaborated with director Spike Jonze (“Being John Malkovich” “Adaptation”) on the groundbreaking video for “Drop”. The album consistently reinforced their steadfast refusal to tread familiar artistic grounds.
Today, The Pharcyde is still performing and touring the globe. They continue to hone their individual abilities yet carry on the name & legacy in its original fashion. They still seduce their audience with the same boyish charm that founded them at the beginning. The Pharcyde is still influencing the hip-hop artists and sounds of today and will continue to for years to come.
Recommended for fans of A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Digital Underground and Beastie Boys.

Ladies of Soul, Vol. 3: A Celebration of Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill & Mary J. Blige
2026-02-28 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-02-28 21:00 - 23:00
Celebrating three of the most iconic and influential voices in modern R&B and soul!

Ladies of Soul, Vol. 3 honors the artistry, songwriting, and cultural impact of Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, and Mary J. Blige. Here, each of these artists reshaped contemporary soul by blending R&B, hip-hop, jazz, gospel, and raw emotional storytelling.
The evening will feature powerhouse vocal performances backed by an A-List band. Additionally, hear beloved classics, deep cuts, and fan favorites from across these legendary catalogs.
Solorah The Essence is the vocalist/leader of jazz/R&B fusion collective Bakkwooddrift. Also, her angelic voice embodies soulful black music.
Ashley Commodore is a singer from a family of talented, accomplished musicians. Her mother Ginger, father Bobby, and brother Brandon are all Twin Cities gems performing in varied music genres. Ashley has been featured with Grammy Award winning group the Sounds of Blackness. Additionally, she currently tours with national recording artist Stokley Williams. Further, she is the newest member of the jazz vocal ensemble, Moore By Four. When not out on the road with Stokley & the VÜ, you can find her sitting in with the Dr Mambo’s Combo at Bunkers Bar and Grill.
Singer/songwriter/actor Monique Blakey discovered her very large voice at a very young age. She began singing at the age of five and acting by the age of nine. Monique was immediately thrust into talent shows, plays, and hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down yet! Additionally, she has worked on network TV, recorded with several mainstream artists, and acted in several stage productions. Also, she recently landed her first role in a Hulu series.
The Band:
Tony Axtell, bass
Deevo, guitar
RAWTWHYLAH, drums
Tommy Barbarella, keys
Recommended for fans of Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, and Mary J. Blige.

Emmet Cohen Trio
2026-03-01 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-01 20:30 - 22:30
“one of the finest piano players to emerge in decades…” – All About Jazz

Multifaceted American jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen has emerged as one of his generation’s pivotal art figures. A recognized prodigy, Cohen began Suzuki method piano instruction at age three. There, his playing quickly became a mature melding of musicality, technique, and concept. Downbeat observed that his “nimble touch, measured stride and warm harmonic vocabulary indicate he’s above any convoluted technical showmanship.” In the same spirit, Cohen has noted that playing jazz is “about communicating the deepest levels of humanity and individuality. It’s essentially about connections,” both among musicians and with audiences. He leads his namesake ensemble, the Emmet Cohen Trio, and is a vibrant solo performer. Furthermore, he is in constant demand as a sideman. Here, he possesses a fluid technique, an innovative tonal palette, and an extensive repertoire, Cohen plays with the command of a seasoned veteran and the passion of an artist fully devoted to his medium.
Emmet Cohen is committed to the intergenerational transfer of artistic knowledge, history, and traditions. His signature undertaking is the Masters Legacy Series, a celebratory set of recordings and interviews honoring legendary jazz musicians. He serves as both producer and pianist for each album in the series. The goal of this ongoing project is to provide musicians of multiple generations with a forum. Thus, they transfer the unwritten folklore that is America’s unique musical idiom. Cohen has observed that playing jazz “is enriched immeasurably by connecting and studying with jazz masters, forging backward to the very creation of the art form.” Volume one of the series features drummer Jimmy Cobb, and volume two spotlights bassist Ron Carter. Future Masters Legacy Series releases will include Cohen’s recordings with Benny Golson, Tootie Heath, and George Coleman.
Recommended for fans of Oscar Peterson, Benny Green, Kenny Barron and Brad Mehldau.

Private Event
2026-03-02 00:00 - 23:59
We will be closed on MAR 2 for a private event. BOOK YOUR EVENT HERE:

Sarah Morris & Molly Dean
2026-03-03 19:00 - 21:00
Two of Minneapolis’ most compelling songwriters share the stage for an evening rooted in craft, connection, and storytelling.

Sarah Morris brings her crystalline voice and award-winning Americana songwriting, pairing technical precision with emotional depth that lingers. Here, her stories have been honed from conservatory training to national stages. Molly Dean joins the evening with a genre-blending approach that mixes folk, indie, and singer-songwriter influences. Additionally, Molly will share songs from her latest release Interwoven. Together, the evening offers engaging, intimate performances – a night of thoughtful, well-crafted music and storytelling.
Molly Dean is a Minneapolis-based vocalist and multi-instrumentalist known for her versatile, genre-blending sound. Her music draws from folk, indie, and singer-songwriter traditions, with a focus on clear melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and strong musicianship.
Her latest release, Interwoven, explores themes of connection, personal growth, and shared experience. The album reflects years of performing in a wide range of settings, both in the U.S. and internationally. There, she appears at folk festivals and theaters to collaborative projects and solo shows.
Often described as “deceptively simple” and “enrapturing,” Molly Dean’s music is direct, intentional, and emotionally grounded. Moreover, Molly invites listeners into songs that feel honest, accessible, and resonant.
Sarah Morris aims to document the glorious details of our messy, magical lives. Also, she is a 2018 Kerrville New Folk Winner, and the Midwest Country Music Organization named her Songwriter of the Year three times. Called “A bright, clear, brilliant songwriter” (L’Etoile Magazine), Morris wields a keen eye and a captivating voice. Further, she offers poignant and relatable songs with timeless melodies.
“What a voice, never showy or seeking the limelight, just impressive within the requirements of the song and that in itself, in this day and age, is a rare thing.” – Dancing About Architecture
Recommended for fans of Brandi Carlile, Pieta Brown, Patty Griffin and Birds of Chicago.

Slum Village
2026-03-04 19:00 - 21:00
“ill beats, boastful raps… gritty and soulful music” – Pitchfork

With Room3
Kaleidoscopic jazz fusion collective Room3 joins Slum Village as backing band for the evening. Here, the live band element adds depth and color to the group’s iconic sound.
Slum Village is not just a music group, but a close-knit brotherhood tied together by friendship and their shared musical passions. They emerged in the early 1990s from the dynamic streets of Conant Gardens in Detroit. There, led by T3, Baatin, and the iconic J Dilla, the group quickly became a cornerstone in Detroit’s hip-hop scene.
J Dilla’s enduring influence continued to shape the group. For example, his protégé, Grammy-nominated producer Young RJ, stepped in as a rapper in 2009. Also, through T3 and Young RJ’s stewardship, Slum Village has continued to innovate. There, 2002’s Trinity and standout track “Tainted” are revered among hip-hop fans. Additionally, 2004’s standout album Detroit Deli featured the popular single “Selfish” with Kanye West and John Legend.
T3 and Young RJ have been instrumental in preserving and expanding the group’s legacy. Their involvement led to later albums like Villa Manifesto and YES, which includes posthumous productions by Dilla. Today, Slum Village remains a celebrated name in the world of Detroit hip-hop. With over a decade of collaboration, T3 and Young RJ stay true to the group’s founding ethos while introducing new vitality and a contagious zest.
Their recent works include singles “Request,” “Factor,” “So Superb,” and the acclaimed 2024 album F.U.N. This album features artists like Cordae, Larry June, Elijah Fox, and Eric Roberson. It highlights their continued commitment to breaking new ground and thrilling audiences globally. Here, explore their musical journey and experience the sounds that have established them as hip-hop royalty.
Recommended for fans of J Dilla, Eric Roberson, Dwele and Talib Kweli.

Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials
2026-03-05 19:00 - 21:00
“Scorching and soulful, joyous and stomping.” – Living Blues

2024 BLUES FOUNDATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

In Chicago, a city overflowing with unrivaled blues talent, world-renowned Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials have been standing tall for over thirty years. There, the band’s big sound is as real and hard-hitting as Chicago blues gets. It’s fueled by Lil’ Ed’s gloriously rollicking slide work and deep blues string bending, along with his rough-edged, soulful vocals. The Chicago Sun-Times says, “Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials are the hottest purveyors of bottleneck boogie to come out of Chicago since Hound Dog Taylor.”
Lil’ Ed Williams comes to the blues naturally. His uncle, slide guitar king and master songwriter J.B. Hutto, taught him how to feel, not just play the blues. Nine albums and thousands of performances later, Lil’ Ed is now universally hailed as a giant of the genre. Additionally, the band includes bassist (and Ed’s half-brother) James “Pookie” Young, guitarist Mike Garrett and drummer Kelly Littleton. Also, they have remained together for over thirty years, an extraordinary feat for any group. Moreover, the band fuels Ed’s songs with their rock-solid, road-tested, telepathic musicianship.
The group took home the Living Blues Award for Best Live Performer in 2011, 2012 and 2013. They won the prestigious Blues Music Award for Band Of The Year in both 2007 and 2009. The Associated Press says, “Williams fills Chicago’s biggest shoes with more life and heat than anyone on stage today.”
Their infectious energy, joyful showmanship and masterful playing have been honed to a razor’s edge by their many years together. Lil’ Ed, Pookie, Mike and Kelly have seen sports stars and presidents, musical fads and fashion trends come and go.
Recommended for fans of James Cotton, Coco Montoya, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Joe Bonamassa.

John Oates & The Good Road Band
2026-03-06 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-03-06 21:00 - 23:00
“engaging, unpretentious voice… sincere and modestly virtuosic” – Acoustic Guitar

John Oates is celebrating twenty-five years as an accomplished solo recording artist. John celebrated this milestone by releasing his newest project, 2025’s self-titled album Oates.
Oates is a co-founder of the most successful duo in rock history, Hall & Oates. Thus, he is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and The American Songwriters Hall of Fame. Also, he received the prestigious BMI Icon Award as well as numerous American Music, MTV awards and multiple Grammy nominations.
Oates has been part of pop music history’s most iconic moments. For example, he was part of the groundbreaking “We Are The World” charity session. Further, Hall and Oates headlined the first Live Aid concert in Philadelphia. More recently, John is very active with various philanthropic organizations such as Feeding America, Movember, Teen Cancer America and more.
In addition to having sold over 80 million albums as a former member of Hall & Oates, he has recorded eight solo albums. He is currently touring the world with his Good Road Band and Acoustic Quartet performing his new original songs. Additionally, they cover past hits as well as selections of influential music he calls “the songs that made me”. Here, these are selected from the early days of rock, soul, folk and R&B.
Recommended for fans of Hall & Oates, Boz Scaggs, Bruce Hornsby and Jeff Lynne.
📸: Jason Lee Denton

Altan
2026-03-07 19:00 - 21:00
“The hottest group in the Celtic realm” – The Boston Globe

Altan is celebrating forty years on the road, bringing their native music to world-renowned stages. They have played Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House, and Dublin’s National Concert Hall. They have also played the famous Glastonbury Festival, Tradfest Temple Bar in Dublin, and Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Brittany.
Building on this history, their latest album, 2024’s Donegal, has received widespread positive reviews. Altan has long been at the forefront of traditional Irish music. Here, they blend the raw energy of their native Donegal-fiddle style with a rare, melodic sensibility. The first-ever Irish traditional band signed to a major record label, Boston Globe named them “The hottest group in the Celtic realm”.
The band’s original members are lead singer and fiddler Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Ciaran Curran on bouzouki, and Mark Kelly on guitar. Then, they are accompanied by accordion player Martin Tourish, and their newest member, fiddler and singer Clare Friel.
Altan has shared their music and musicianship with The Chieftains, Dolly Parton, Ricky Skaggs, John Prine, and more. Embarking on their fifth decade, their commitment to Donegal’s musical heritage ensures that it will endure for generations to come.
Recommended for fans of Dervish, Cherish the Ladies, The Waterboys and The Dubliners.

R. Carlos Nakai
2026-03-08 19:00 - 21:00
“Nakai is creating… a body of work that could be considered as modern as classical music.” – Focus Magazine

R. Carlos Nakai is widely considered the world’s premier performer of the Native American flute. Also, he is the only American Native performer performing in the Indigenous genre to achieve a Platinum Record. His Canyon Trilogy has sold over 1 million copies. Additionally, Nakai has a successful career in many genres of music. He is an eleven-time Grammy nominee and serves as an effective ambassador in reaching new concert audiences.
Nakai stands as one of the most renowned and influential American Indian musicians of the modern era. He has spent decades weaving the ancient sounds of his heritage with contemporary musical forms. Thus, he created a body of work that transcends genre and brings Indigenous traditions to audiences worldwide.
Nakai grew up steeped in the stories, songs, and communal values of his ancestors. Living in the Southwest United States, he experienced both the challenges and the beauty of life as an Indigenous person in a changing world. His family’s encouragement and his exposure to traditional ceremonies laid the foundation for his later artistic journey. He also gained an early appreciation for the importance of cultural preservation. Here, this theme would become central to his life’s work.
Nakai approaches the Native American flute with both innovation and respect. Rather than simply replicating traditional songs, he has expanded the instrument’s expressive possibilities. Furthermore, he employs new fingering techniques, extended melodies, and harmonics. Here, he blends the flute’s haunting tones with elements of jazz, classical, and world music. He also composes original works for flute integrating influences from his heritage with contemporary sensibilities. His music carries a universal message of peace, healing, and connection to the land.
Recommended for fans of Gary Stroutsos, Riley Lee, Coyote Oldman and Keith Secola.

Antonio Rey
2026-03-09 19:00 - 21:00
Two-time Latin Grammy-winner Antonio Rey (Spain) is widely regarded as one of the top flamenco guitarists of his generation. He is lauded for his stunning virtuosity, impeccable tone, and his lush and soulful compositions. Also, he has won many of Spain’s most prestigious guitar competitions and received numerous awards. For example, Spain’s National Guitar Award, shared by the likes of Paco de Lucia and Vicente Amigo.
His 2024 album Historias de un Flamenco won the Latin Grammy for Best Flamenco Album, and was also nominated for a 2025 Grammy. Additionally, he won the 2020 Latin Grammy for his album Flamenco Sin Fronteras.
Antonio regularly tours major theaters, concert halls and festivals around the world. This includes recent homage concerts to Paco de Lucia in Carnegie Hall and Madrid’s Teatro Real. Here, he appeared both as a featured soloist and with Al di Meola along with de Lucia’s nephew Antonio Sanchez.
He has performed with top flamenco legends including maestro Paco de Lucia himself, dancers Farruquito and Antonio Canales. Also, international artists such as Alejandro Sanz, Pablo Alboran and jazz greats including Richard Bona and Al di Meola. Recognized as Paco de Lucia’s successor, Antonio Rey now steps into the spotlight captivating audiences worldwide.
Recommended for fans of Paco de Lucia, Vicente Amigo, Las Migas and Carmen Linares.

Immanuel Wilkins Quartet
2026-03-10 19:00 - 21:00
“improbable balance of ethereal and earthy… sublime” – Downbeat

Award-winning alto saxophonist and composer Immanuel Wilkins burst onto the musical scene in 2020 with his critically acclaimed debut, Omega. October 2024 saw the release of Wilkins’ third album, Blues Blood.
Accolades, awards, and critical acclaim have followed with each of Wilkins’ album releases. Omega was named the best new jazz release by The New York Times and best debut jazz album by NPR. Also, it was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Best Jazz recording. The year ended on an even higher note, with Wilkins winning the prestigious Letter One Rising Stars Award. Two years later, Wilkins released his sophomore album, The 7th Hand. Like his debut, it topped numerous year-end lists including Jazzwise, NPR, The New York Times, The Financial Times, and JazzTimes. In 2023, Wilkins was awarded with three DownBeat Critics Poll Awards. These included Best Alto Saxophonist, Best Rising Star Composer, and Best Rising Star Group. In 2024, German Deutscher Jazz Preis named his quartet best international live act of the year.
Wilkins and his quartet have toured extensively and graced some of the most esteemed stages in the world. Notable performances include Montreal Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Umbria Jazz, North Sea Jazz, Pori Jazz, and Newport Jazz Festival. Also, the Kennedy Center, the Library of Congress, SFJAZZ, and Elbphilharmonie.
In addition to touring as a leader, Wilkins continues to record and share the bandstand with both his peers and his longtime mentors. For example, Jason Moran, Kenny Barron, Wynton Marsalis, Bob Dylan, Solange, Joel Ross, Gerald Clayton, and Lalah Hathaway.
Recommended for fans of Joshua Redman, Roy Hargrove, Ravi Coltrane and Charles Lloyd.
📸: Joshua Woods

Los Lobos
2026-03-11 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-03-12 19:00 - 21:00
“one of the hottest live acts on the planet” – BBC

It’s a matter of time. Fifty years to be exact. And in that time Los Lobos have created an unprecedented body of work, a legacy of greatness. The numbers are staggering: 100+ gigs a year for five decades running, crossing millions of miles to rock millions of fans. And that’s just at the live shows.
They’ve also recorded seventeen studio albums, seven live LPs, three compilations, two EPs, two DVDs, and contributed over forty guest appearances on their friends’ recordings. They have garnered five Grammys, an Austin City Limits Hall of Fame induction and the ALMA Ritchie Valens Pioneer Award.
But beyond all the hoopla and applause (and the source of it all, really) is the tremendous heart. Rather, hearts. Cinco corazones. Five blood brothers who have dedicated their off-stage time to helping others, working for peace and justice. Further, they’ve penned some of the most literate and important music of their time. They transform the hard cries from the East L.A. barrio into songs of hope, tales of common folk finding ways to endure.
The young wolves were weaned on late-night radio’s soul, R&B, and doo-wop. Were cured through the African-American currents of the blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll. An amalgam. As proud Chicanos, their songs have always glistened with the distillation from their Mexican and Latin American roots.
Quite simply, they are one of the tightest, one of the best, one of the most prolific bands ever. And, amazingly, with the original founding members as the pack the entire time. Unprecedented. As their liner notes put it, quite simply: “Los Lobos still are David Hidalgo, Louie Pérez, Jr., Cesar Rosas, Conrad Lozano, Steve Berlin.”
Recommended for fans of Alejandro Escovedo, Roy Orbison, Ritchie Valens and Elvis Presley.
These tickets do not qualify for the A-Train discount.

Dessa
2026-03-15 19:00 - 21:00
“Dessa is a rock star… a unique gift for innovative turns of phrase.” – Star Tribune

Spanning genres and disciplines, Dessa’s style is defined by tenderness, ferocity, candor, and wit. As a musician, she’s co-composed for large choirs and crowd-surfed at rock clubs. Also, she recorded a live album with the Grammy-winning Minnesota Orchestra and contributed a track to the Number One album The Hamilton Mixtape. Her TED Talk, which recounts her science experiment on how to fall out of love, has notched more than 5 million views. She’s written for The New York Times and National Geographic Traveler. Additionally, she hosted two seasons of a podcast for the BBC. Also, she’s published several poetry books and literary collections including the memoir-in-essays My Own Devices.
Dessa’s musical career began in earnest when she was asked to join Minneapolis’ Doomtree collective. Here, the hip-hop crew is known for bold production, charismatic lyricists, and explosive live shows. Then, she started touring hard as a solo act after her 2010 release A Badly Broken Code. Since then, she’s released five more full-length albums, working across sounds and styles. Meanwhile, she keeps her razor-sharp writing front and center.
Recommended for fans of Doomtree, P.O.S., Sims and Sage Francis.
📸: Athel Rogers

Richard Bona
2026-03-16 19:00 - 21:00
“pure summer happiness… golden voice” – London Jazz News

Grammy winner Richard Bona is one of the most accomplished international bass players, composers and multi-instrumentalists. With his unique sound and vocal gift he is continuously representing his African origins. Moreover, Bona’s music addresses the continent’s traditions, culture, beauty and issues. His purpose, and Bona’s connection with his audience has turned him into a staple name in world, jazz and Afropop music.
He currently produces and records for Latin and Brazilian artists in pop, Brazilian songbook, Flamenco and Caribbean music.
Richard Bona has toured, composed, recorded, and created musical forms of art with the greatest. He’s worked with Herbie Hancock, Harry Belafonte, Steps Ahead, Quincy Jones, Chick Corea, Buena Vista Social Club and Cesária Évora. Also, Sting, Mike Stern, Pat Metheny, Stevie Wonder, Bobby McFerrin, Chucho Valdés, George Benson, Oumou Sangaré and more. Thus, he has many diverse notable collaborations to his credit. Richard has also taught Jazz Improvisation at NYU and is constantly teaching and mentoring young talents throughout the world. Furthermore, he’s also a TED speaker and ambassador for various non-profit projects.
He is highly involved in developing better music business practices and ethics. He has a Signature Series collaboration with Italian-based MARKBASS. This has positioned him as one of the most creative and best-selling bass amp and bass guitar manufacturers in the world.
Bona is constantly touring around the world and exploring new musical directions. Further, Richard continues to redefine his sound, while still performing live. He’s currently working on new Afrobeat, Afropop, Latin and Flamenco projects throughout Europe, the US and Latin America.
Recommended for fans of Stanley Clarke, Joe Zawinul, Trilok Gurtu and Dobet Gnahore.

Cyrille Aimée
2026-03-19 19:00 - 21:00
“a breezy pop flavor, gentle grooves, lovely melodies” – All About Jazz

Cyrille Aimée grew up in a multilingual household full of music where she danced every day. There, her soundtrack featured the Afro-Caribbean sounds from her mother’s native Dominican Republic. The family home was in Samois-sur-Seine, the location of the Django Reinhardt Festival. Often, the teenage Cyrille would climb out of her bedroom window at night to mingle with the players. Thus, this ignited a passion for jazz.
Moving to New York City, her talents quickly earned her a reputation among her peers as a matchless song interpreter. She worked with Roy Hargrove and stole the show in front of the notoriously hard-to-please crowd at the Harlem Apollo. Steven Sondheim invited her to star in a tribute at New York’s City Centre, backed by Wynton Marsalis. Her 2019 album Move On featured versions of Sondheim’s songs which received praise from Sondheim himself. Additionally, she earned a 2019 Grammy nomination for her version of “Marry Me a Little”.
At the height of her New York success, new horizons beckoned. Visiting New Orleans, she fell in love with the energy and diversity of the city and made it her home. Then, she teamed up with producer/multi-instrumentalist Jake Sherman, and together they created her latest album, 2024’s A Fleur de Peau.
The album combines the depth and sophistication of jazz, the immediacy of pop, and the irrepressible dance rhythms of the Caribbean. Furthermore, it’s more intimate and more accessible than anything Cyrille has done before.
Recommended for fans of Stacey Kent, Madeleine Peyroux, Veronica Swift and Cécile McLorin Salvant.

JD Simo & Luther Dickinson: Do The Rump! Tour
2026-03-20 19:00 - 21:00
“straight-up blues with a razor edge guitar slash.” – Americana Highways

Two of the most electrifying forces in modern roots music converge! Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars, The Black Crowes) joins JD Simo (Chris Isaak, Jack White, Beyoncé, Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis). Here, they unite as a soul-shaking trio with powerhouse drummer Adam Abrashoff. Their chemistry is deep, their grooves are dirty, and their shows are a masterclass in high-octane, roots-infused blues.
Luther, a four-time Grammy nominee, is celebrating the twenty-fifth anniversary of North Mississippi Allstars and a brand-new album. Thus, he is proving his commitment to pushing Hill Country blues forward. JD, meanwhile, has built a career on fearless reinvention. In addition to touring with Chris Isaak, he’s a key creative on the upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me from Nowhere. There, he worked closely with both Bruce and director Scott Cooper, supervised the music script, and coached lead actor Jeremy Allen White (The Bear). Additionally, he contributed heavily to the film’s score and soundtrack.
Their collaborative album Do The Rump! has been making waves, with lead single “Come On” hitting #1 on SiriusXM Bluesville. Furthermore, the sound is raw, hypnotic, and thrillingly alive—equal parts Hill Country trance, psych-soul, and electrified jam.
These trio shows are rare. The music is greasy. And this is your chance to feel it live.
Recommended for fans of North Mississippi Allstars, The Radiators, R.L. Burnside and Anders Osborne.

The MPLS Men Of Motown
2026-03-21 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-03-21 21:00 - 23:00
“an unbelievable night of iconic songs” – Explore MN

Feat. Lamont Keten, Len Jones, RoShewn Harrington, David Chill Anderson, Shayde Stephens
This dynamic and soulful show features The Mfellaz and the timeless sounds of Motown. Furthermore, the music of Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Jackson 5, The Four Tops and the mighty Temptations.
The show features The KAJ Orchestra led by Kirk A. Johnson, formerly of Prince and The New Power Generation. Also, the music takes you back in time to when these impressive artists created Motown’s danceable arrangements and choreography.
Lamont Keten has been a featured and supporting vocalist for Musicians4Musicians and The Soul Tight Committee. Additionally, he’s worked with The Maxx Band Soul Experience, Mid America Talent, and the world-famous Alexander O’Neal.
Len Jones has been a featured vocalist for Sounds of Blackness and Musicians4Musicians. He is also a writer and producer for KatPhewd Productions.
RoShewn Harrington is an in-demand writer, producer, and featured artist. He has appeared with the Greats Gone 2 Soon live music series, Musicians4Musicians, and Two 4 the Show.
David Chill Anderson has been an acclaimed featured vocalist for many years. Further, he has appeared in MFellaz, The Not Guilty Band, and the Al Green and Bill Withers show.
Shayde Stephens has been a featured vocalist for BKS, Who Nu, High and Mighty, Synergy, Bella Diva, and R Factor.
Recommended for fans of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and The Temptations.

Tina Schlieske Sextet
2026-03-22 19:00 - 21:00
“one of the most potent singers to ever come out of the Twin Cities.” – Star Tribune

Tina Schlieske, a Midwestern rock mainstay, commands a dedicated and passionate following, especially in her hometown of Minneapolis. She’s best known for fronting the band Tina and the B-Sides. Her inaugural jazz recording, 2024’s The Good Life, sees Schlieske embarking on a transformative jazz odyssey. Here, this is her homage to the greats that have paved the way for voices like Tina’s to celebrate. Further, she celebrates giants like Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra. Much like the influential rockers she has emulated, David Bowie, Tina Turner, Tina’s reverence for these giants shines through.
A luminary in the Minneapolis rock and Americana music circuit, Schlieske’s illustrious career spans over four decades. There, she has garnered numerous accolades, including a prestigious star adorning First Avenue’s legendary star wall. Also, she is renowned for her impassioned vocal delivery and magnetic stage presence. Thus, Schlieske’s pivot into the realm of jazz signifies a poignant milestone in her already illustrious career. Her transition into this new territory is a testament to her enduring artistic evolution and an exciting progression for her dedicated audience.
Schlieske has long held an affinity for jazz, but she left it unexplored until recent years. Here, this stemmed from an unanticipated desire to delve into the allure of classic standards within the contemporary musical landscape. “There is a certain simplicity in these complicated songs,” she reflects. “Singing jazz offers me the chance to push the boundaries of my vocal capabilities. It’s a whole new world compared to rock. Here, the voice becomes another instrument. Maintaining the essence of the melody while infusing personal interpretation presents a thrilling challenge that I find truly exhilarating.”
Recommended for fans of Indigo Girls, Etta James, Lucinda Williams and Melissa Etheridge.

Morgan James VIP Experience
2026-03-24 17:00 - 17:30
Morgan James is hosting VIP events prior to the show, giving a chance for fans to get together and celebrate good music in an intimate setting.
VIP attendees will be treated to an exclusive performance, story telling, a question and answer session with Morgan, photo and autograph sessions and everyone will walk away with an exclusive piece of merchandise only available to VIPs at each show.
VIP Experiences include:

Early entrance and crowd-free merchandise shopping
A commemorative piece of merchandise
Individual photo opportunity with Morgan James
Autograph session with Morgan James
Group question and answer session with Morgan James — ask your most burning question!
Private performance by Morgan James

IMPORTANT: This is not a ticket to the show.
You must have a concert ticket in order to purchase this VIP Meet & Greet.

Check-in Time: Please arrive at the venue by 4:45 PM.
After check-in, you’ll be escorted to the VIP area for the meet & greet.

“A phenomenal talent whose feel for classic soul music is bone deep… This woman is on fire.” – New York Times

Morgan James has a voice that needs to be heard. After her grandmother heard her sing, the matriarch paid for James’ voice lessons, positive that her granddaughter had talent. However, despite the often-treacherous terrain of the music industry, James has never tired in her quest. There, she has tussled with unimaginative label executives, covered and owned Beatles songs, and cast a woman as Jesus. Through it all, James has carved out an enviable career, always on her own terms.
James has a particular taste for inserting herself into men’s spaces. Here, she twists hyper-masculine songs to her will, changing their meanings in the process. Furthermore, she brings that feminist lens to the forefront in her most recent project, 2025’s Soul Remains the Same. Moreover, she reinterprets tracks from AC/DC, Stone Temple Pilots, and Pearl Jam. “Something I’ve always loved, and I’ve done throughout my career, is sing songs that are not just written by men, but especially made for men,” she says. “And make them my own.”
Here, Soul Remains the Same transforms testosterone-soaked ‘80s and ‘90s radio classics of her youth into poignant, soulful, deeply personal covers. “I don’t try to change something to be clever. I don’t want to change something that’s already great,” James says. “But sometimes I’ll hear a song and think to myself, ‘This would be amazing with horns, or what would this sound like with a choir or a B3?’” James picked which tracks to cover after a road trip on which she and her husband belted along to some old favorites. Then, she created sexy, bold versions of cuts like Whitesnake’s “Is This Love”. Also, a deliciously moody version of Smashing Pumpkins’ “Tonight, Tonight.”
Recommended for fans of Nina Simone, Postmodern Jukebox, Pink Martini and Aretha Franklin.

Morgan James
2026-03-24 19:00 - 21:00
“A phenomenal talent whose feel for classic soul music is bone deep… This woman is on fire.” – New York Times

Morgan James has a voice that needs to be heard. After her grandmother heard her sing, the matriarch paid for James’ voice lessons, positive that her granddaughter had talent. However, despite the often-treacherous terrain of the music industry, James has never tired in her quest. There, she has tussled with unimaginative label executives, covered and owned Beatles songs, and cast a woman as Jesus. Through it all, James has carved out an enviable career, always on her own terms.
James has a particular taste for inserting herself into men’s spaces. Here, she twists hyper-masculine songs to her will, changing their meanings in the process. Furthermore, she brings that feminist lens to the forefront in her most recent project, 2025’s Soul Remains the Same. Moreover, she reinterprets tracks from AC/DC, Stone Temple Pilots, and Pearl Jam. “Something I’ve always loved, and I’ve done throughout my career, is sing songs that are not just written by men, but especially made for men,” she says. “And make them my own.”
Here, Soul Remains the Same transforms testosterone-soaked ‘80s and ‘90s radio classics of her youth into poignant, soulful, deeply personal covers. “I don’t try to change something to be clever. I don’t want to change something that’s already great,” James says. “But sometimes I’ll hear a song and think to myself, ‘This would be amazing with horns, or what would this sound like with a choir or a B3?’” James picked which tracks to cover after a road trip on which she and her husband belted along to some old favorites. Then, she created sexy, bold versions of cuts like Whitesnake’s “Is This Love”. Also, a deliciously moody version of Smashing Pumpkins’ “Tonight, Tonight.”
Recommended for fans of Nina Simone, Postmodern Jukebox, Pink Martini and Aretha Franklin.
