Dakota

Big Daddy Kane
2026-04-17 21:00 - 23:00 (America/Chicago)
“one of the fiercest emcees of his era” – Albumism

Big Daddy Kane is one of hip-hop’s most lyrical, diverse, innovative, trendsetting M.C.s. He is known by many attributes: Dark Gable, Black Caesar and King Asiatic Nobody’s Equal, but he is known to the world as Big Daddy Kane.
This baritone voiced, stylish dressing M.C. were the one to first bring the “playa” element to hip-hop. There, Kane, along with Bobby Brown and Michael Jordan, put dark skin back on the map. Kane was the first rapper to ever hold two sold out shows at the world-famous Apollo Theater for women only. Also, he appeared in magazines Right On and Source, and let’s not forget the infamous Madonna Sex book. However, in the words of the late Big Pun, Kane is not only a playa, he just crush a lot. Referring to his rapid fire, metaphoric battle rap style.
Kane’s influences are Muhammad Ali, Marvin Gaye, and his rap hero Grand Master Caz of the Cold Crush Brothers. However, on stage the James Brown and the Famous Flames influence is evident as well. With several Gold albums, Kane has endured over a long career giving us a deep catalogue of timeless music.
As a powerful figure in the rap game, Kane has collaborated with many artists. Here, he has worked with Kool G Rap, Masta Ace and Craig G, Public Enemy and Ice Cube. Also, Heavy D, UGK, Busta Rhymes, Patti LaBelle, Quincy Jones and more. All of that along with a Grammy award makes Big Daddy Kane a hip-hop legend, a member of the elite circle of rap royalty. Furthermore, the 2005 VH1 Hip Hop Honors honored him during the broadcast. Additionally, Kane continues to touch millions of fans worldwide. LONG LIVE THE KANE!!!
Recommended for fans of Biz Markie, Public Enemy, EPMD and Erik B. & Rakim.

Pat Metheny
2026-04-18 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-04-18 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-04-19 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-04-19 20:00 - 22:00
“That liquid, crystalline tone; those airborne, searching melodies.” – NPR

Pat Metheny was born in Lee’s Summit, MO on August 12, 1954 into a musical family. He started on trumpet at the age of eight, then switched to guitar at age twelve. By fifteen, he worked regularly with the best jazz musicians in Kansas City, receiving valuable on-the-bandstand experience. Then, Metheny burst onto the international jazz scene in 1974. Over his three-year stint with vibraphone great Gary Burton, the young player already displayed his soon-to-become trademarked playing style. Here, he blended the loose and flexible articulation customarily reserved for horn players with an advanced rhythmic and harmonic sensibility. Moreover, this way of playing and improvising was modern in conception but grounded deeply in the jazz tradition of melody, swing, and the blues. With his first album, Bright Size Life (1975), he reinvented the traditional “jazz guitar” sound for a new generation.
Metheny’s versatility is nearly without peer on any instrument. He has performed with Steve Reich, Ornette Coleman, Herbie Hancock, Jim Hall, Milton Nascimento, and David Bowie. Metheny’s body of work includes compositions for solo guitar, small ensembles, electric and acoustic instruments, large orchestras, and ballet pieces and even the robotic instruments of his Orchestrion project, while always sidestepping the limits of any one genre.
Pat Metheny has won twenty Grammy Awards spread out over a variety of different categories. Once, he won seven consecutive Grammys for seven consecutive albums. In 2015 he was inducted into the DownBeat Hall of Fame, becoming only the fourth guitarist to be included. In 2018 he was named an NEA Jazz Master, the nation’s highest honor in jazz.
Recommended for fans of Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett, Wes Montgomery and Bill Frisell.
These tickets do not qualify for the A-Train discount.

Urban Classic Presents REVELATION:
2026-04-20 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-04-20 21:00 - 23:00
“Revelation” brings the music of Prince and the legendary MPLS Sound to life.

This show features the songs of Prince, New Power Generation, The Time, Jesse Johnson, Vanity 6, Wendy & Lisa, Alexander O’Neal, Janet Jackson, and more. Additionally, this extraordinary lineup includes former members of the Original NPG, Mint Condition, The Time, Mazarati, Sounds of Blackness, and the Jesse Johnson Revue. Moreover, these artists helped shape the very movement being celebrated. Here, “Revelation” honors the visionaries who transformed Minneapolis’ musical heartbeat into a global phenomenon.
Michael Bland was born in Minneapolis and is one of the most revered drummers in the world. He is best known as the drummer for Prince’s New Power Generation from 1989 to 1996. He has worked with Mandy Moore, Clay Aiken, Backstreet Boys, and Miley Cyrus. Also, George Benson, Mavis Staples, Chaka Khan, and Maxwell. Additionally, Bland performed with Paul Westerberg, The Chicks, David Crosby, Jonny Lang, and Soul Asylum.
Liv Warfield’s music career took off in 2009 after Prince selected her as the newest member of New Power Generation. There, he mentored her, helping hone her stage presence and studio arrangement of her music. Then, she toured with the band for five years. Also, he Executive Produced her second solo album, 2014’s The Unexpected.
Featuring:
Michael Bland, MD/drums (Prince, NPG, Soul Asylum, Sounds Of Blackness, Cory Wong)
Special Guest – Liv Warfield, vocals (America’s Got Talent, NPG)
Tommy Barbarella, keyboards (Prince, NPG, MN Orchestra, Greazy Meal)
O’Dell, guitar (Mint Condition, NPG)
Bobby G, guitar (Sheila E., The Time, Jesse Johnson, EWF)
Ashley Commodore, vocals (Sounds Of Blackness, MPLS, Dr. Mambo’s Combo, Stokley)
G Sharp, vocals (The Bizness, Mazarati)
Jay Bee, vocals (The Routine, LTD)
Cory Eischen, keyboards (Mayda, E.L.No)
Ron Long, bass (Dr. Mambo’s Combo)
Recommended for fans of Prince, The Time, Greazy Meal and Mint Condition.

Ana Popovic
2026-04-21 19:00 - 21:00
“one helluva guitar player” – Bruce Springsteen

Los Angeles-based, critically acclaimed guitarist and singer Ana Popovic released her latest album, Dance To The Rhythm, in 2025. Here, the album showcases a groundbreaking fusion of groove, blues, funk, and soul.
Building on the success of her previous work, Dance To The Rhythm pushes boundaries. There, she seamlessly blends infectious dance grooves with raw blues guitar and powerful lyrics. The album weaves a rich tapestry of musical styles, reflecting Popovic’s masterful versatility.
Ana says: “One of my biggest strengths on stage is my ability to make people dance. Music should take you to a place where you can let go, feel the groove, and move. You want music to grab you, to have a pocket that you can’t resist. Everything else revolves around it. Blues guitar has never really been part of dance music before, and in that way, it’s revolutionary. Guitar plays a central role in these tracks, breaking down the boundaries created by time, culture, and musical traditions. With this album, I’m pushing those boundaries.” For Ana, blues guitar is the foundation of everything in her music. Yet, she masterfully blends genres, effortlessly shifting from blues to dance, jam band, funk, pop, and even gospel. Thus, it’s all part of her evolving sound.
A true pioneer, Ana combines her blues guitar roots with bold experimentation, redefining the intersection of blues and dance music. Her live performances are electrifying, blending fierce guitar work with irresistible rhythms that compel audiences to move.
She’s received seven Blues Music Awards nominations, and her latest album, 2023’s Power, hit Number One on the Billboard Blues Chart. Additionally, Ana has shared stages with legends like B.B. King, Joe Bonamassa, Warren Haynes, Robert Plant, and Gary Clark Jr.
Recommended for fans of Joe Bonamassa, Gary Clark Jr., Buddy Guy and Eric Gales.

Jorma Kaukonen & John Hurlbut
2026-04-22 19:00 - 21:00
“a pioneer of San Francisco psychedelia” – Rolling Stone

Jorma Kaukonen is one of the most highly respected interpreters of American roots music, blues, and rock. His storied career has already spanned a half-century. Moreover, he is a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy recipient. Jorma was at the forefront of popular rock and roll, one of the founders of the San Francisco sound and a progenitor of Psychedelic Rock. Thus, he is a founding member of two legendary bands, Jefferson Airplane and the still-touring Hot Tuna.
Jorma Kaukonen is a music legend and one of the finest singer-songwriters in his field. He continues to tour, bringing his unique styling to old blues tunes while presenting new songs of weight and dimension. Here, his secret is in playing spontaneous, unfiltered music, with an individual expression of personality. In 2016, Jorma, Jack Casady and the other members of Jefferson Airplane received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. There, this was to recognize their contributions to American music.
In 2019 St. Martin’s Press published Jorma‘s autobiography, Been So Long: My Life and Music, Furthermore, he wrote this to express his life both in and out of the music world. As Kaukonen describes, “My story is my story. Having told bits and pieces of it over my lifetime to a treasured few, it was time to tell all to a bigger audience… From rehearsals and jams in small apartments and tiny back rooms to Monterey, Woodstock, Altamont, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, the world of the Grammys and beyond… this is part of the road I live on. This is my embryonic journey and much, much more!”
Recommended for fans of Hot Tuna, Jefferson Airplane, Leo Kottke and Doc Watson.

VIP Event: Black Violin: Full Circle Tour
2026-04-23 16:30 - 17:30, 2026-04-24 16:00 - 17:00
Invitation to pre-show experience with Black Violin, including:

Access to view a portion of soundcheck
Q&A session
Photo opportunity with Kev and Wil
Commemorative VIP laminate
VIP access to the merchandise booth and a 20% discount on any available item

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

“fusion of classical, hip-hop, blues, and R&B” – Glide

Step into Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour! Here, Grammy-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus redefine the possibilities of music by merging classical depth with hip-hop’s pulse. Also, this tour captures the essence of returning to where it all began—transformed and reimagined. Each powerful performance invites audiences to reflect on their own journeys, discovering that even as we evolve, we’re often drawn back to our roots with renewed purpose.
From high school orchestra classmates to groundbreaking artists, Black Violin’s path reflects resilience, creativity, and the courage to challenge expectations. Furthermore, their Black Violin Foundation reaches over 100,000 students each year, building a legacy that transcends the stage. Join them for an unforgettable night that celebrates growth, music, and the beauty of coming full circle.
The members of Black Violin met on the first day of orchestra class in 1996. There, they both attended Dillard High School of the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale. (Baptiste originally wanted to play saxophone in the band. However, the orchestra teacher assigned him to his class after winning a golf bet with the band instructor.) Classically trained by day, they faithfully put on their headphones and listened to the hottest rap records each night. Then, after attending different colleges, they reconvened, moved into an apartment together, and started trying to produce other musicians.
They developed an act covering hip-hop songs on their violins, which became popular in local clubs. Two years after sending in a tape to Showtime at the Apollo, the show invited to appear— which they won, and kept winning. Since then, they’ve worked with Alicia Keys, Alessia Cara, 2 Chainz, Lil Wayne, Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park), and more.
Recommended for fans of 2Cellos, Lindsey Stirling, The String Queens and Damien Escobar.

Black Violin: Full Circle Tour
2026-04-23 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-24 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-04-24 21:00 - 23:00
VIP Meet & Greet Add-On. Click the links below for tickets!
APR 23
APR 24

“fusion of classical, hip-hop, blues, and R&B” – Glide

Step into Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour! Here, Grammy-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus redefine the possibilities of music by merging classical depth with hip-hop’s pulse. Also, this tour captures the essence of returning to where it all began—transformed and reimagined. Each powerful performance invites audiences to reflect on their own journeys, discovering that even as we evolve, we’re often drawn back to our roots with renewed purpose.
From high school orchestra classmates to groundbreaking artists, Black Violin’s path reflects resilience, creativity, and the courage to challenge expectations. Furthermore, their Black Violin Foundation reaches over 100,000 students each year, building a legacy that transcends the stage. Join them for an unforgettable night that celebrates growth, music, and the beauty of coming full circle.
The members of Black Violin met on the first day of orchestra class in 1996. There, they both attended Dillard High School of the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale. (Baptiste originally wanted to play saxophone in the band. However, the orchestra teacher assigned him to his class after winning a golf bet with the band instructor.) Classically trained by day, they faithfully put on their headphones and listened to the hottest rap records each night. Then, after attending different colleges, they reconvened, moved into an apartment together, and started trying to produce other musicians.
They developed an act covering hip-hop songs on their violins, which became popular in local clubs. Two years after sending in a tape to Showtime at the Apollo, the show invited to appear— which they won, and kept winning. Since then, they’ve worked with Alicia Keys, Alessia Cara, 2 Chainz, Lil Wayne, Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park), and more.
Recommended for fans of 2Cellos, Lindsey Stirling, The String Queens and Damien Escobar.

The Wailers
2026-04-26 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-26 20:30 - 22:30
“pure positive vibes… vibrant, relevant, and revolutionary” – Broadway World

The Wailers emerged as a Jamaican ska, rocksteady and reggae band. They are hailed for hits like “Simmer Down”, “Trenchtown Rock”, “Nice Time”, “War”, “Stir It Up” and “Get Up, Stand Up”.
They released four albums before signing to Island Records in 1972. Two more albums were created before Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer left the band in 1974. Then, Bob Marley carried on with a new line-up.
After the death of Marley in 1981, the Wailers continued, led by Aston Barret. The band continued to play a heavy worldwide touring schedule and recorded with several singers. In 1989, Aston Barrett released the album I.D. and continued using the Wailers name when collaborating with other artists.
Under the guidance of Aston Barrett Jr, son of the legendary “Familyman”, The Wailers continue to preserve the legacy of their iconic sound. Their culture-defining music, embodying the spirit of the 70s reggae movement, has left an indelible mark on the industry.
In 2022, The Wailers welcomed a new vocalist, Mitchell Brunings. Here, he adds even more dynamic energy to their already electrifying live shows. Brunings is a talented vocalist who has made a name for himself with his soulful voice and powerful stage presence. Moreover, The Wailers continue to captivate audiences with their unique brand of reggae. There, they blend the sounds of the past with a fresh, contemporary flair. Brunning’s addition to the band has been widely praised by fans and music critics alike. Here, this solidifies The Wailers’ status as one of the most exciting live acts in the world.
Experience the magic of their timeless classics and incredible cuts from Bob Marley’s vast repertoire in a set that is truly unforgettable.
Recommended for fans of Bob Marley, Toots and The Maytals, John Holt and Steel Pulse.

Julius Rodriguez
2026-04-27 19:00 - 21:00
“tremendous sense of harmony and virtuosity” – New York Times

Julius Rodriguez is an American jazz pianist, composer, and rising star in the vibrant alternative jazz scene. There, Rodriguez is known for his soulful sound and dynamic playing. He blends a deep understanding of traditional jazz with modern influences, creating a distinctive voice that resonates across genres. His music effortlessly merges elements of jazz, funk, and soul, capturing the essence of both old-school and contemporary styles.
Born and raised in New York, Rodriguez began his musical journey at an early age. Furthermore, he studied piano and drums, developing a love for jazz through the city’s rich musical history. He made a name for himself at eleven years old in the vibrant West Village jazz club scene. Later, he honed his craft at the Juilliard School of Music, where he further shaped his sound and refined his improvisational skills.
Rodriguez’s artistry extends beyond his musicianship. As a composer and bandleader, he brings a unique energy to every performance, seamlessly navigating between melodic inventiveness and intricate rhythms. His debut album, Let Sound Tell All, showcased his ability to craft intricate compositions that push the boundaries of jazz. His most recent album, Evergreen, further demonstrates his growth as an artist. Here, he blends rich, complex arrangements with a deep sense of emotion, continuing to push the boundaries of the genre.
Rodriguez continues to establish himself as one of the most promising voices in contemporary alternative jazz. His work as a collaborator is equally impressive. He has worked with Meshell Ndegeocello, Lianne La Havas, Remi Wolf, Kurt Elling, and Chris Botti. Also, A$AP Rocky, Cautious Clay, and Madison McFerrin. With impeccable technique, musicality, and vision, Julius Rodriguez is poised to become one of the defining voices of his generation.
Recommended for fans of Gerald Clayton, Immanuel Wilkins, Jon Batiste and Julian Lage.

Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-04-28 21:00 - 23:00
“A pianist of imperial command, possessed of a dazzling, deceptively casual virtuosity” – New York Times

Cuban pianist, composer, and arranger Chucho Valdés is the most influential figure in modern Afro-Cuban jazz. Here, in a rich career spanning sixty years, he has won seven Grammy and seven Latin Grammy Awards. Moreover, Chucho pushes boundaries in pursuit of new expressions in Afro-Cuban music. Additionally, his influence in the genre is immeasurable, establishing the standard by which younger generations create their own.
Chucho received musical education through formal studies and countless nights on the best stages in Cuba. There, he performed with his father, Bebo Valdés, and his orchestra Sabor de Cuba, and with the seminal Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna. Chucho is acclaimed as the founder, pianist, and main composer and arranger of Irakere, a landmark ensemble in Cuban music. Also, Chucho led Irakere for more than thirty years, but since 2005 he has focused on his personal career. Here, he showcases his piano prowess with small ensembles, like the Afro-Cuban Messengers, Jazz Batá, and his acclaimed Royal Quartet.
Chucho has been named an NEA Jazz Master. Additionally, he earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. Also, he was inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, and received a DC Jazz Festival Lifetime Achievement Award. There, he joined an illustrious list that includes Kenny Barron, James Moody, Ellis Marsalis, George Wein, and Dave Brubeck.
Valdés is a restless visionary forever evolving Afro-Cuban music. Further, he is as creative and playful as ever on his Grammy-nominated, Latin Grammy-winning release, 2024’s Cuba & Beyond.
Recommended for fans of Arturo Sandoval, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Alfredo Rodriguez and Nachito Herrera.

Joey Alexander
2026-04-29 19:00 - 21:00
“seemingly limitless technique… dazzling” – NPR

Joey Alexander is one of the most exciting voices in contemporary jazz. He is a Grammy-nominated jazz pianist and composer from Bali, Indonesia. He has released seven acclaimed albums, and performed at the White House, Carnegie Hall, and the Grammy Awards.
Alexander burst onto the global jazz scene in 2015 with his debut album My Favorite Things. Since then, he has released seven albums, earning widespread acclaim and three Grammy Award nominations. There, My Favorite Things was nominated for Best Instrumental Album, and he also earned Best Jazz Solo noms for “Giant Steps” and “Countdown.”
His albums My Favorite Things and Countdown both reached Number One on the Billboard Jazz Charts, while Eclipse climbed to Number Three.
Joey has performed for President Barack Obama at the White House and President Bill Clinton at the Arthur Ashe Learning Center Gala. Additionally, he has appeared at the Grammys, The Grand Ole Opry, the Apollo Theatre and Carnegie Hall. Furthermore, he performs at major jazz festivals, clubs, and concert halls worldwide.
TV show 60 Minutes has profiled him, and The New York Times has featured him. Here, this solidifies his reputation as a prodigious talent and a leading figure in modern jazz.
Recommended for fans of McCoy Tyner, Ahmad Jamal, Brad Mehldau and Keith Jarrett.

Paul Thorn
2026-04-30 19:00 - 21:00
“More of a revival than a concert.” – KDHX

When it comes to songwriting, less is more, and simplicity is strength. Just ask Paul Thorn. Here, he has spent three decades turning soulful grooves and small syllables into songs that pack a big wallop. Maybe he learned the power of minimalism from his years as a pro boxer; maybe it just comes naturally. But whether he’s aiming for heads, hearts, hips or the occasional funny bone, he always hits his target. Further, he somehow manages to condense large nuggets of wisdom into tight little mantras. The kind embroiderers stitched onto pillows before internet memes existed.
Thorn’s new album, 2025’s Life is Just A Vapor, contains some beauties. “Life is a vapor, let’s live it while we can”. “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do” (from “Tough Times Don’t Last”). “Any mountain up ahead is just a hill” (from “Old Melodies”). Here, there are words of advice, comfort, support, encouragement, often meant to uplift, especially in times of struggle.
“I like for people to be touched by music and get something from it. Something that they can take with them throughout the day,” Thorn says. “Every song on this album, there’s a message in it of some sort about how to live life.”
American Blues Scene writer Don Wilcock calls Thorn “an everyman (who) addresses things we all think about. But few can articulate with the kind of candor, humor and folksy truth that immediately endear him to almost everyone lucky enough to hear his music.”
Recommended for fans of Robert Earl Keen, Rosanne Cash, The Mavericks and Todd Snider.
📸: Jeff Fasano

VIP Event: Al Di Meola: Guitarchitect
2026-05-01 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-02 16:00 - 17:00
Upgrade your evening with an exclusive VIP Meet & Greet experience with Al Di Meola. This limited opportunity offers fans an intimate behind-the-scenes look before the show begins.
Invitation to pre-show experience with Al Di Meola, including:

Pre-show soundcheck
Pre-show meet & greet with Al Di Meola

IMPORTANT: This is not a ticket to the show. You must have a concert ticket in order to purchase this VIP Meet & Greet.
If you have tickets to the late show, you may join us for the VIP experience, but you must return at the start of your show time.

“a terrifyingly dexterous electric guitarist… a remarkable acoustic shredder.” – Premier Guitar

Al Di Meola is one of the top guitarists of our time. Here, he has enjoyed a celebrated career that has spanned more than four decades. His fascination with complex rhythmic syncopation, provocative lyrical melodies, and sophisticated harmony are at the heart of his music. Among his myriad critical accolades are multiple Grammys and Grammy nominations. Additionally, twelve awards from polls conducted by Guitar Player magazine, which inducted Di Meola into its Gallery of Greats.
A bona fide guitar hero and prolific composer, Di Meola has created more than thirty albums as a leader. Furthermore, he has collaborated on about a dozen others. These include fusion supergroup Return to Forever (with Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, and Lenny White). Also, the celebrated acoustic Guitar Trio (featuring fellow virtuosos John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía). Further, the Rite of Strings trio (with Clarke and violinist Jean-Luc Ponty). Here, his dazzling technique has made him a hero to fretboard fanatics. However, the depth of Di Meola’s writing, along with the soulfulness and inherent lyricism of his expressive playing, have won him a worldwide fanbase beyond the guitar aficionado set.
Recommended for fans of Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Paco de Lucia and Wayne Shorter.

Al Di Meola: Guitarchitect
2026-05-01 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-05-01 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-02 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-05-02 21:00 - 23:00
“a terrifyingly dexterous electric guitarist… a remarkable acoustic shredder.” – Premier Guitar

Al Di Meola is one of the top guitarists of our time. Here, he has enjoyed a celebrated career that has spanned more than four decades. His fascination with complex rhythmic syncopation, provocative lyrical melodies, and sophisticated harmony are at the heart of his music. Among his myriad critical accolades are multiple Grammys and Grammy nominations. Additionally, twelve awards from polls conducted by Guitar Player magazine, which inducted Di Meola into its Gallery of Greats.
A bona fide guitar hero and prolific composer, Di Meola has created more than thirty albums as a leader. Furthermore, he has collaborated on about a dozen others. These include fusion supergroup Return to Forever (with Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, and Lenny White). Also, the celebrated acoustic Guitar Trio (featuring fellow virtuosos John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía). Further, the Rite of Strings trio (with Clarke and violinist Jean-Luc Ponty). Here, his dazzling technique has made him a hero to fretboard fanatics. However, the depth of Di Meola’s writing, along with the soulfulness and inherent lyricism of his expressive playing, have won him a worldwide fanbase beyond the guitar aficionado set.
Recommended for fans of Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Paco de Lucia and Wayne Shorter.

Leela James: 2BHONEST
2026-05-02 19:30 - 21:30
“burnished Southern soul… lung-busting power” – Rolling Stone

Leela James has carved out a singular space in music where classic soul meets contemporary R&B. She does this with a voice that’s raw, powerful, and unmistakably soul-stirring. She broke out with her debut, 2005’s A Change Is Gonna Come. Since, Leela has earned a reputation for blending deep, emotive storytelling with gritty vocals and timeless grooves. Influenced by legends like Aretha Franklin, Al Green, and Chaka Khan, she channels the spirit of old-school soul while fearlessly pushing musical boundaries.
Early in her career, she was honored by the legendary James Brown, who affectionately coined her “The Goddaughter of Soul.” There, he recognized her authentic voice and powerful connection to the roots of the genre.
Ms. James has gone on to record and release seven LPs, delivering seven Top Twenty R&B radio singles. These include two Number One tracks on the Billboard charts. Her 2021 single “Complicated” topped the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart for three consecutive weeks. Thus, this solidified her reputation as a force in contemporary soul.
Her beloved ballad, 2022’s “Fall For You” is considered a modern classic and was certified Gold, surpassing 500,000 units sold. Over the years, her music has become synonymous with passion, authenticity, and emotional honesty. Here, this includes hits like “Don’t Want You Back” and “Say That” featuring Anthony Hamilton.
In 2014, Leela won The Soul Train Certified Award. Then in 2021, she garnered an NAACP Image Award nomination for Best R&B Collaboration. She earned another NAACP nomination in 2025 for her powerful single “Lookat Whatcha Done Now” featuring Kenyon Dixon. There, this further cemented her role as a vital and enduring voice in modern soul.
Recommended for fans of Lalah Hathaway, Eric Roberson, Alicia Keys and Jill Scott.

Jake Shimabukuro
2026-05-04 19:00 - 21:00
“His ability to leap genres and play jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, folk and classical is impressive.” – Downbeat

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Here, he is hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele.” Moreover, Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances. He seamlessly blends elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four. Then he quickly developed a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral. There, this video introduced millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential.
Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborating with an array of legendary artists. For example, Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood. Furthermore, he has performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music.
Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach. There, he frequently performs at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.
Recommended for fans of Keola Beamer, Paula Fuga, Iam Tongi and Tommy Emmanuel.

Martin Zellar
2026-05-07 19:00 - 21:00
“His songs are just too beautiful, too fully realized to ignore.” – Austin Chronicle

If you ask singer-songwriter Martin Zellar what he’s most proud of over his long career, he answers, “I guess that I’ve managed to support my family by writing, recording, and performing music for over thirty-five years. It hasn’t always been easy or glamorous, but I’ve found a way. I still love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else. And honestly, the fact that I’m not qualified to do anything else has been a motivator”. The truth is, Martin has made his living because he has always reliably delivered what his fans expect. Here, Zellar consistently provides quality songwriting and heartfelt performances.
Immediately after graduating from high school Martin moved to Minneapolis and formed the country-rock band The Gear Daddies. There, the band comprised friends and fellow Austinites Nick Ciola, Billy Dankert and Randy Broughten. The Gear Daddies had some success, and a lot of fun. Moreover, they consider themselves lucky to have been part of the 1990’s Twin Cities music scene.
The Gear Daddies released three critically acclaimed albums and toured non-stop. Additionally, they performed on Late Night with David Letterman before amicably parting ways in 1992. Zellar then went on to record and perform as a solo artist, releasing seven more albums. His 1993 release, Born Under, and his 2012 release, Roosters Crow, were especially well-received by critics.
Martin continues to record and perform as a solo artist and with his band the Hardways. That’s what he continues to do, and he still has fun. In October 2023, Zellar released Head West, his first new offering in over a decade, to wide critical acclaim.
Recommended for fans of The Gear Daddies, The Jayhawks, Peter Himmelman and BoDeans.
