Cécile McLorin Salvant
2026-09-04 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-09-04 21:00 - 23:00 (America/Chicago)
“She is a modern jazz marvel.” – Star Tribune

Cécile McLorin Salvant is a composer, singer, and visual artist. The Late Jessye Norman described Salvant as “a unique voice supported by an intelligence and full-fledged musicality, which light up every note she sings.” Here, Salvant has developed a passion for storytelling. She finds connections between vaudeville, blues, folk traditions from around the world, theater, jazz, and baroque music. Moreover, Salvant is an eclectic curator, unearthing rarely recorded songs with strong narratives, interesting power dynamics, unexpected twists, and humor.
Salvant won the Thelonius Monk competition in 2010. Also, she received Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Album for three consecutive albums. Here, these include 2018’s The Window, 2017’s Dreams and Daggers, and 2015’s For One To Love. Additionally, she earned a Grammy nomination for 2014’s WomanChild. Then, in 2020 Salvant received the MacArthur fellowship and the Doris Duke Artist Award. Her 2022 recording Ghost Song garnered two more Grammy nominations and wide critical acclaim.
Salvant released her latest album, Oh Snap, in 2025. Here, this album features twelve very personal songs by Salvant. Further, she mostly recorded it outside of a traditional studio environment and it showcases her genre-spanning tastes and influences.
For this album, Salvant wrote these short, intimate songs as part of a creative quest. Here, she sought to place spontaneity and joy at the center of her writing process. She originally recorded them alone, at home, never intending for them to be released. Moreover, the songs reflect Salvant’s wide-ranging musical influences from her 1990s childhood in Miami. There, sounds from boy bands to grunge to classical to folk are present. Additionally, there are party tracks with beats, samba grooves, and quiet folk songs.
Recommended for fans of Lizz Wright, Kandace Springs, Cassandra Wilson and Veronica Swift.

The Shabby Road Orchestra
2026-09-05 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-09-05 20:30 - 22:30
Taking only the Beatles seriously since 2017.

The Shabby Road Orchestra is a 12-piece Minneapolis ensemble known for its head-turning performances of late-period Beatles recordings.
The Shabby Road Orchestra:
Adam Levy, guitar, vocals
Andy Nelson, woodwinds
Brandon Sampson, guitar, vocals
David Foley, horns, woodwinds
Ken Chastain, drums, vocals
Jacqueline Ultan, cello
Joe Carey, guitar, vocals
John Eller, guitar, piano, vocals
John Fields, bass
John Sievers, trombone
Paul Scott, piano, keys
Tom Scott, keys, percussion, sound effects
Recommended for fans of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Who and The Monkees.

Band illustration by Anita White

Madeleine Peyroux
2026-09-09 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-09-10 19:00 - 21:00
“It’s rare to find someone capable of injecting such life into every single lyric.” – London Jazz News

“We Are America is a celebration of great Americans and American music. I want to remind us all of who we are.”
This is a celebration of American composers and performers who deeply influenced American culture. Here, all of whom are the children of immigrants, or descendants of our formerly enslaved Black American brethren. “My music and these performances are part of a dialogue. That’s what art is. It’s engagement, community. I believe more than anything in getting together with people and listening to music and conversing. Music is the only way I’ve ever built community.”
Much like songbird Edith Piaf, Madeleine Peyroux spent her teenage years busking the busy streets of Paris. Just like the ‘little sparrow’, Madeleine befriended the city’s street musicians and made its Latin quarter her first stage. Years later, Peyroux would cite iconic Piaf as an influence on her music. There, her rendition of Piaf’s classic “La Vie En Rose”, soulfully captures the tune’s romanticism and melancholy.
Madeleine “grew up in a house filled with music” and from an early age “instinctively realized music’s soothing power”. Then, young Madeleine moved to Paris with her mother in 1987 following her parents’ divorce. “To soothe me during the upheaval”, she recalls, “I was given a guitar and took to playing in the streets almost immediately.”
Thirty years after her formative busking days Peyroux is the proud curator of nine beguiling albums. The soundtrack of Oscar-winner The Shape of Water features her atmospheric version of Serge Gainsbourg’s “La Javanaise”. Additionally, her countless accolades include the coveted BBC International Artist of the Year honor.
Recommended for fans of Norah Jones, Melody Gardot, Diana Krall and Stacey Kent.

Dinner Du Nord
2026-09-10 17:30 - 20:30
Take your seat at Minnesota’s largest outdoor dinner party and experience downtown Minneapolis like never before! Dinner Du Nord transforms Nicollet Mall into one long communal table, bringing together thousands of guests for an evening of exceptional food, drinks, and connection. Enjoy a family-style meal featuring chef-inspired creations from Dakota Chef Asher Zulkosky as dishes are passed down the table, encouraging conversation, community, and shared experiences. As you dine, enjoy live music from Sidewalk Café performing along Nicollet Mall, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Meet fellow diners and soak in the energy of the city around you!
DAKOTA MENU:

Dakota Smorgasbord
Smoked salmon, Kramarczuk’s andouille sausage, house pickles, mustard, focaccia, house made crackers, smoked tomato chutney, artisanal cheese
Family style meal

Herb salad
Smoked chicken roulade
Baked mac and cheese
Hush puppies & remoulade

Dessert
Stone fruit cake
Additional Info
• The above menu is Dakota’s choice of signature dishes
• There are no substitutions
• Bar and wine service are not included with the all in pricing
•1st course will be served at 6pm.
*Membership discounts do not apply

Bettye LaVette Duo
2026-09-11 19:00 - 21:00
“Classic soul singing doesn’t get any better.” – New York Times

An intimate evening with Bettye LaVette, accompanied by Etienne Stadwijk on keyboards.
The 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’.”
These 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.
Her 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.
Since 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.
According 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.”
Now, 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.
Recommended for fans of Bob Moses, Sam Cooke, Andra Day and Martha Reeves & The Vandellas.

Dominique Fils-Aimé
2026-09-13 19:00 - 23:00
“so much soul… unmistakably sunlit style” – Spin

Dominique 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.
In 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.
On 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.
In 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.
In 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.
Recommended for fans of Erykah Badu, Gregory Porter, Lianne La Havas and José James.
📸: Vladim Vilain

Lucía
2026-09-14 19:00 - 21:00
“rich kaleidoscope of references… unique voice” – DownBeat

Lucía is a 24-year-old vocalist from Veracruz, México. Her singular artistic vision bridges the gaps between jazz, Latin and pop music. Lucía Gutierrez Rebolloso started her musical career at the age of two. There, she sang and danced in her parents’ son jarocho band, Son de Madera. Then, she began studying voice at the age of thirteen at Universidad Veracruzana. Additionally, she received a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies there. In 2022, she became the first Mexican artist to enter the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, which she won.
Lucía has already collaborated with several world-renowned artists and musicians. Here, these include Natalia Lafourcade, Aloe Blacc, La Santa Cecilia, Quetzal, Son de Madera, Alex Mercado and the National Jazz Orchestra of Mexico (ONJMX in Spanish). She has performed on notable stages worldwide, including Carnegie Hall and Rose Hall at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Also, Royce Hall at UCLA, the ASU Gammage in Arizona, and El Cantoral. Additionally, the National Center for the Arts and the Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris in Mexico City. She has also performed in renowned festivals like the Vancouver Folk Festival and the International Cervantino Festival in Guanajuato, Mexico.
Lucía released her first full album in 2025. Here, it presents Lucía’s interpretations of jazz standards (“What a Difference a Day Makes,” “You Must Believe in Spring,”). Also, classic Spanish songs (“Silencio,” “La Llorona,” “Como Fue”) and current pop songs (by Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo). Furthermore, the album featuring an extraordinary group of musicians including Edward Simon, David Sanchez, Larry Grenadier and Antonio Sánchez.
Recommended for fans of Bria Skonberg, Emma Smith, Rachael & Vilray and Stella Cole.
📸: Shervin Lainez

Mike Stern Band
2026-09-15 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-09-15 21:00 - 23:00
“an amazing ear for harmony and endlessly creative… exhilarating” – PopMatters

Mike Stern is one of the true guitar greats of his generation. There, he plays with remarkable facility, and his searing lines draw mainly on bebop and the blues. Additionally, he carries a rock-tinged intensity. He uniquely combines the finesse and lyricism of Jim Hall, the driving swing of Wes Montgomery and the turbulent, overdriven attack of Jimi Hendrix.
Stern made his mark with Miles Davis in the early ‘80s before launching his solo career in 1985. Since then, he has released seventeen recordings as a leader, six of which received Grammy nominations. Moreover, his latest recording, 2024’s Echoes and Other Songs, features an all-star cast.
Musicians, critics and fans hail drummer Dennis Chambers for his technique and speed. Furthermore, they particularly praise his ability to play “in the pocket”. Thus, he has worked with John Scofield, George Duke, Brecker Brothers, Steely Dan, Santana, Parliament/Funkadelic, John McLaughlin, and more.
Bassist Noam Tanzer moves among a diverse world of styles. There, these vary from improvised music to hardcore metal, from indie rock in Spanish to the music of Billy Strayhorn. Noam has worked with Paquito D’Rivera, Miguel Zenon, Julieta Rada and others.
Regarded as the First Lady of jazz guitar, Leni Stern has become a respected force on the global music scene. Also, she has led her own groups for over three decades. Additionally, Guitar Player once described her work as “a case study in the interactive properties of composition and improvisation.”
Saxophonist Bob Franceschini ranks among the most in-demand players in New York. There, he has worked with George Benson, Eddie Palmieri, Woody Shaw, Kenny Kirkland, Chris Botti, Chaka Khan and many others.
Recommended for fans of John Scofield, Miles Davis, Pat Metheny and Jaco Pastorius.
📸: Sandrine Lee

VIP Event: Taj Farrant
2026-09-16 16:30 - 17:30
Click the link below for show tickets!
Taj Farrant: SEP 16 • 7:00pm performance

Join Taj Farrant for an exclusive pre-show VIP experience!
Your VIP upgrade includes:

Pre-show Meet & Greet with Taj Farrant
Photo Opportunity
Autographs (Bring your own items or purchase merchandise at the merch table)

Check-in Time: Please arrive at the venue by 4:30 PM.
After check-in, you’ll be escorted to the VIP area for the meet & greet, which takes place before doors open at 5:30 PM.

IMPORTANT: This is not a ticket to the show. Purchase your show ticket here

“a powerful force in the blues world” – Blues & Rock Review

Taj Farrant is an Australian guitarist and musician known for his remarkable talent at a young age. He gained recognition through social media platforms, particularly for his impressive guitar covers and original compositions. Additionally, Taj has been featured in various music festivals For example, Big Blues Bender in Vegas, Telluride Blues & Brew and Australia’s largest Blues Festival, Bluesfest. He has also collaborated with established artists such as Carlos Santana, Buddy Guy, and the Hendrix Experience team. There, he showcases his skills in genres like rock and blues. Furthermore, his unique style and virtuosity have earned him a growing fanbase and accolades within the music community.
Farrant’s debut album tour, titled Chapter One, marks an exciting milestone for this young Australian guitarist and singer-songwriter. There, he launched the tour to coincide with the release of his highly anticipated first album. Also, the tour showcases his exceptional talent and eclectic musical style, blending rock, blues, and pop influences. With electrifying performances and heartfelt songwriting, Farrant captivates audiences as he embarks on this new artistic journey. Here, he solidifies his place in the music scene and promises a bright future ahead.
Recommended for fans of Joe Bonamassa, Jonny Lang, Gary Moore and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Taj Farrant
2026-09-16 19:00 - 21:00
VIP Meet & Greet Add-On. Click the link below for tickets!
Taj Farrant: SEP 16 • 4:30pm VIP Meet & Greet

“a powerful force in the blues world” – Blues & Rock Review

Taj Farrant is an Australian guitarist and musician known for his remarkable talent at a young age. He gained recognition through social media platforms, particularly for his impressive guitar covers and original compositions. Additionally, Taj has been featured in various music festivals For example, Big Blues Bender in Vegas, Telluride Blues & Brew and Australia’s largest Blues Festival, Bluesfest. He has also collaborated with established artists such as Carlos Santana, Buddy Guy, and the Hendrix Experience team. There, he showcases his skills in genres like rock and blues. Furthermore, his unique style and virtuosity have earned him a growing fanbase and accolades within the music community.
Farrant’s debut album tour, titled Chapter One, marks an exciting milestone for this young Australian guitarist and singer-songwriter. There, he launched the tour to coincide with the release of his highly anticipated first album. Also, the tour showcases his exceptional talent and eclectic musical style, blending rock, blues, and pop influences. With electrifying performances and heartfelt songwriting, Farrant captivates audiences as he embarks on this new artistic journey. Here, he solidifies his place in the music scene and promises a bright future ahead.
Recommended for fans of Joe Bonamassa, Jonny Lang, Gary Moore and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Mac McAnally
2026-09-18 19:00 - 21:00
“a true storyteller” – Americana Highways

Record setting ten-time Country Music Association Musician of the Year, Mac McAnally is a Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee. Additionally, he is in the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame and Alabama Music Hall of Fame. The renowned songwriter, singer, and instrumentalist has written dozens of hit records for other artists, several of which peaked at Number One. He has written hits for Alabama, Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and Sawyer Brown, and has studio credits that include albums by Toby Keith, Linda Ronstadt, George Strait and Dolly Parton among many others.
McAnally notes that he typically sees three kinds of people at his shows. Those who have followed his career since his 1977 debut album. Those who recognize him as the guitarist in Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band. And those who remember his notable credits in country music. The latter category is particularly impressive, with songs cut by Alabama (“Old Flame”), Kenny Chesney (“Back Where I Come From”), Sawyer Brown (“All These Years”), Shenandoah (“Two Dozen Roses”) and many others.
McAnally became a journeyman storyteller and musician. Also, he was an occasional, then full-time Coral Reefer, and duet partner on Nanci Griffith’s seminal “Gulf Coast Highway.” He can talk about recording the Preservation Hall Jazz Band in New Orleans and Jimmy Buffett’s vocals in Key West. Then, he marvels about Kenny Chesney driving to Canada and back to see a girl listening to Mac’s Simple Life the entire way. He talks about, “ridiculous things. I’ve gotten to open shows for Willie Nelson, play with Ray Charles and talk music with Sir Paul McCartney. I don’t mean to name drop, but I love all those people and their music.”
Recommended for fans of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, Alabama and Dolly Parton.

Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights at Orchestra Hall
2026-09-20 19:00 - 21:00
“He’s the only individual artist to top the Hot 100 with both a vocal hit and an instrumental hit.” – Billboard

Get ready for a very special evening with Herb Alpert and his brand-new Tijuana Brass. Herb along with his six great musicians will be playing all your favorite TJB hit songs just as you remember. The band includes Bill Cantos (piano & marimba), Kerry Marx (guitar), Ryan Dragon (trombone), Kris Bergh (trumpet), Ray Brinker (drums) and Hussain Jiffry (bass).
2025 marked the sixtieth anniversary of the iconic album Whipped Cream & Other Delights. Herb and the band will be performing many of those great songs in addition to many other hit songs. “The Lonely Bull”, “Spanish Flea”, “Taste of Honey”, “Mexican Shuffle”, “Tijuana Taxi”, “This Guy’s In Love With You”, “What Now My Love”, “Zorba the Greek”, “Ladyfingers”, “Rise” and many other delights. Further, the show features a giant video screen. There, hundreds of classic photos, videos, art and various memorabilia from Herb’s music career will be displayed.
A legendary trumpet player, Herb Alpert’s extraordinary musicianship has earned him five Number One hits. Additionally, he has nine Grammy Awards, fifteen Gold albums, fourteen Platinum albums and has sold over 72 million records worldwide. Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass propelled his sound into the limelight, at one point outselling The Beatles two to one. In 1966, they achieved the remarkable feat of simultaneously having four albums in the Billboard Top Ten. Furthermore, they had five in the Top Twenty. Alpert is also the only artist who has had a Number One instrumental (“Rise”) and a Number One vocal record (“This Guy’s In Love With You”).
Recommended for fans of Chris Botti, Andy Williams, Sergio Mendez & Brasil ’66 and Chuck Mangione.
📸: Dewey Nicks

This performance excludes A-Train membership benefits, except for early access.

Shoshana Bean
2026-09-21 19:00 - 21:00
“a vocalist who could set a stage on fire with a single note.” – Broadway World

Shoshana Bean is a Grammy Award winner and three-time Tony Award nominee. She can currently be seen starring in The Lost Boys musical on Broadway. Prior to that she starred in Alicia Keys’ hit Broadway musical, Hell’s Kitchen. There, her portrayal of ‘Jersey’ earned her a Grammy Award, her second Tony Award nomination, a Drama League Award nomination, and a Drama Desk nomination. Furthermore, her performance in the Public Theater’s Hell’s Kitchen Off-Broadway production earned her a Lucille Lortel Award nomination.
In 2022, she received Tony and Grammy nominations as well as an Outer Critics Circle Award Nomination. Also, a Drama League Award Nomination for her role as Susan Young opposite Billy Crystal in Broadway’s Mr. Saturday Night. Additionally, she previously starred on Broadway as the first replacement for Elphaba in Wicked and as Jenna in Waitress.
Her six independent studio albums and EP’s have landed her on top of the iTunes and Billboard charts. Additionally, she haslent her voice to countless films and television shows. There, these include The Boys, Sing, Sing 2, Enchanted, Jersey Boys, Glee, and Galavant. Shoshana made her Broadway debut in the original cast of Hairspray, and appeared Off-Broadway in the 2000 revival of Godspell. Also, she performed in Songs for a New World at City Center Encores.
Regionally, she appeared in Sarah Silverman’s The Bedwetter, and won an IRNE Award for her performance in Funny Girl. Additionally, she earned a Jeff Award nomination for her portrayal of CeeCee Bloom in the pre-Broadway musical production of Beaches. She has appeared in Bloodline, Bill and Ted Face The Music, and Great Performances: 50 Years of Broadway’s Best. Recently, she filmed a solo concert special for PBS.
Recommended for fans of Toby Gad, Lawrence, Joy Woods and Andra Day.

Pure Prairie League
2026-09-23 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-09-23 21:00 - 23:00
“soaring harmonies, lilting love songs, and rollicking Southern rockers” – No Depression

Pure Prairie League continues to embellish its rich fifty-plus year history of one of country-rock’s pioneering forces. There, they began in mid-Sixties Ohio as a group of friends playing cover tunes. Now, the present-day unit features the propulsive team of drummer Scott Thompson and bassist Jared Camic. Additionally, keyboard master Randy Harper, guitar ace/vocalist Jeff Zona and pedal steel/saxophonist John Heinrich. Here, as one reviewer recently wrote: “PPL’s sound combines sweet memories with edgy, contemporary muscle. Their vocals are as strong as Kentucky moonshine and the musicianship and performance skills are as sharp as a straight razor”.
PPL’s eponymous first album has been hailed as a major early influence in the emerging popularity of country-rock music. Then, their second effort, the multi-platinum Bustin’ Out featured the Craig Fuller-penned classic “Amie”, along with other gems of the genre. Also, over several albums and countless shows, a legacy has been forged and enriched. The band has enjoyed contributions from several noteworthy members, including original co-founder George Ed Powell, and Cincinnati’s legendary Goshorn Brothers. Also, Country Hall of Famers Gary Burr and Vince Gill, award-winning writer Jeff Wilson (three Top twenty singles), top Nashville session vocalist Curtis Wright and others. Furthermore, they have featured guest appearances from Chet Atkins, Johnny Gimble, Emmylou Harris, David Sanborn, Don Felder (Eagles), and more.
Moreover, the new generation: Keith Urban, Nickel Creek, Wilco, Counting Crows and more cite PPL as a major influence.
Now, with the release of 2024’s Back On Track, PPL brings it all back home with a dozen new songs. Here, they complete the circle begun in 1970 and continues to this day.
Recommended for fans of Poco, The Doobie Brothers, The Eagles and The Flying Burrito Brothers.

Jon B
2026-09-24 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-09-24 21:30 - 23:30
“fusion of seductive hip-hop soul and gushy R&B” – NME

Jon 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.
Within 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.
Jon 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.
Jon 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”.
Recommended for fans of Boyz II Men, Babyface, Mint Condition and New Edition.

Dakota Block Party 2026
2026-09-26 14:00 - 22:00
The Dakota Block Party Returns in 2026!

Mark your calendars for a free, all-ages celebration filled with live music, community, and summer fun.
Event Details
What: Dakota Block Party 2026
When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 | 2–10 p.m.
Where: Nicollet Mall
Cost: Free and open to the public
MINNEAPOLIS — May 27, 2026 — Dakota will once again host a free block party in downtown Minneapolis on Sat., Sept. 26, 2026, from 2 to 10 p.m. on Nicollet Mall.
Following a highly successful 40th anniversary event in 2025 that drew more than 10,000 attendees, the Dakota Block Party returns for 2026 with an expanded format. The 2026 event will include an outdoor stage on Nicollett Mall, Dakota’s indoor stage and the club’s new event space, The Quinlan Room by Dakota, just one block from Dakota inside the historic Young Quinlan Building.
“The response last year was incredible,” said Lowell Pickett, Dakota founder and partner. “So many people – fans, musicians and community leaders alike – asked us to do it again. The energy, the excitement and the sense of community were all fantastic, and we’re excited to bring all that back this year and in an even bigger way.”
The 2026 Dakota Block Party will feature a lineup of more than a dozen musical acts throughout the afternoon and evening, along with food and beverage offerings from Dakota and local partners. Plus, there will once again be a local Makers’ Market, and kids “Treble Makers” play area with family-friendly activities.
Musical line up to be announced.
Sponsorship opportunities are now available. For more information on becoming a sponsor, please contact Dot Belstler at dot.belstler@gmail.com.
Media Contact
Jacqueline Hanson
Hanson Communications
Jacqueline@HansonPR.com
945.451.5000

Sponsors

VIP Event: Alicia Witt: Album Release
2026-09-27 16:30 - 17:30
Click the link below for show tickets!
Alicia Witt: Album Release – SEP 27 • 7:00pm performance

Alicia Witt VIP Meet & Greet Upgrade – $50
IMPORTANT: This is not a ticket to the show.
You must have a concert ticket in order to purchase this VIP Meet & Greet upgrade.
Join Alicia Witt for an exclusive pre-show VIP experience!
Your VIP upgrade includes:

Pre-show Meet & Greet with Alicia Witt
Photo Opportunity
Autographs (Bring your own items or purchase merchandise at the merch table)

Check-in Time: Please arrive at the venue by 4:30 PM.
After check-in, you’ll be escorted to the VIP area for the meet & greet, which takes place before doors open at 5:30 PM.

“Her melodic and buoyant sound harkens back to the works of Elton John, Billy Joel and Carole King” – Popmatters

Between Heaven and Earth, the haunting and deeply personal new album from Alicia Witt, arrives in August 2026. This album was recorded live in New York City with producer Joe Henry and a band assembled specifically for the project. Here, the album exists in a space suspended between transcendence and intimacy, channeling what Witt describes as “eternal unconditional love”. Further, she describes is as “the place suspended between heaven and earth.”
The album was profoundly shaped by the influence and memory of David Lynch. There, his impact on Witt stretches back to her first film role as Alia in Dune at age seven. “I can’t imagine who I would be without David Lynch,” Witt reflects. “He is weaved throughout the fabric of my life.” Throughout Between Heaven and Earth, Witt explores what she learned from Lynch “regarding love. The eternal nature of it, the idea that only love is real.” Moreover, she describes his presence as palpable throughout the making of the record. “David was with us every day in the studio. All six of us in the band felt his presence.”
Witt is widely recognized for her acclaimed acting career spanning film, television, and stage. However, music has remained a constant throughline in her life. She is a classically trained pianist who supported herself as a musician when she first moved to Los Angeles. Additionally, Witt has long integrated music into her creative identity, both through her own songwriting and in many of the roles she has portrayed onscreen. She’s released multiple full-length albums, including Revisionary History (2015), The Conduit (2021), and I Think I’m Spending Christmas With You (2024). Thus, Between Heaven and Earth represents the latest chapter in that ongoing musical journey.
Recommended for fans of Patty Griffin, Over the Rhine, Shawn Colvin and Natalie Merchant.

Alicia Witt: Album Release
2026-09-27 19:00 - 21:00
VIP Meet & Greet Add-On. Click the links below for tickets!
Alicia Witt: Album Release – SEP 27 • 4:30pm VIP Meet & Greet

“Her melodic and buoyant sound harkens back to the works of Elton John, Billy Joel and Carole King” – Popmatters

Between Heaven and Earth, the haunting and deeply personal new album from Alicia Witt, arrives in August 2026. This album was recorded live in New York City with producer Joe Henry and a band assembled specifically for the project. Here, the album exists in a space suspended between transcendence and intimacy, channeling what Witt describes as “eternal unconditional love”. Further, she describes is as “the place suspended between heaven and earth.”
The album was profoundly shaped by the influence and memory of David Lynch. There, his impact on Witt stretches back to her first film role as Alia in Dune at age seven. “I can’t imagine who I would be without David Lynch,” Witt reflects. “He is weaved throughout the fabric of my life.” Throughout Between Heaven and Earth, Witt explores what she learned from Lynch “regarding love. The eternal nature of it, the idea that only love is real.” Moreover, she describes his presence as palpable throughout the making of the record. “David was with us every day in the studio. All six of us in the band felt his presence.”
Witt is widely recognized for her acclaimed acting career spanning film, television, and stage. However, music has remained a constant throughline in her life. She is a classically trained pianist who supported herself as a musician when she first moved to Los Angeles. Additionally, Witt has long integrated music into her creative identity, both through her own songwriting and in many of the roles she has portrayed onscreen. She’s released multiple full-length albums, including Revisionary History (2015), The Conduit (2021), and I Think I’m Spending Christmas With You (2024). Thus, Between Heaven and Earth represents the latest chapter in that ongoing musical journey.
Recommended for fans of Patty Griffin, Over the Rhine, Shawn Colvin and Natalie Merchant.

Private Event
2026-09-29 00:00 - 23:59
We are booked on SEP 29 for a private event. BOOK YOUR EVENT HERE:

Vieux Farka Touré
2026-09-30 20:00 - 22:00
“Notes fall from his fingers like rain on to water… kaleidoscopic” – Guardian

Vieux Farka Touré, often called “The Hendrix of the Sahara”, hails from Niafunké, Mali. He is the son of legendary Malian guitar player Ali Farka Touré, who died in 2006. Ali came from a historical tribe of soldiers and defied his parents by becoming a musician. Thus, when Vieux reached his teens, he declared that he also wanted to be a musician. However, his father disapproved because of the pressures he had experienced as a musician. Rather, he wanted Vieux to become a soldier. Vieux eventually convinced his father to give him his blessing to pursue music shortly before Ali passed.
Initially, Vieux played drums and calabash at Mali’s Institut National des Arts, but he secretly began playing guitar in 2001. When Vieux announced plans to record an album, cancer had already weakened Ali Farka Touré. Ali recorded a couple of tracks with him. There, those recordings, which appear on Vieux’s debut CD, rank among Ali’s final ones.
When the COVID pandemic hit in 2020 and all touring ground to a halt, Vieux stayed focused on his craft at home. He worked tirelessly in the studio he built at his family’s compound. The resulting album, 2022’s Les Racines, finds Vieux returning to his deep roots. Here, he explores the desert blues music that he spent most of his career experimenting with and expanding. In 2022 Vieux and Houston-based psych-rock superstars Khruangbin released a long-awaited collaborative album. Sir Elton John called it “one of the albums of the year – absolutely wonderful music.”
With each new project Vieux broadens his horizons, embraces new challenges and further entrenches his reputation as one of the world’s most talented and innovative musicians.
Recommended for fans of Ali Farka Touré, Tinariwen, Cheikh Lô and Khruangbin.

Alfredo Rodriguez & Pedrito Martinez
2026-10-01 19:00 - 21:00
“Alfredo, one of the greatest piano players of all time!” – Quincy Jones

“[Martinez is] an incomparable performer… a traditional Afro-Cuban music superstar” – New York Times

Painted in the broadest of strokes, the stories of Alfredo Rodriguez and Pedrito Martinez may seem similar. Both started life in Havana, discovered their gifts and passions for music and headed to the United States. There, they melded the music of their homeland with a wide variety of influences, each in their own deeply personal way.
Rodriguez was born into a musical family, his father a popular singer and TV host. Martinez, on the other hand, honed his craft on the streets of Havana, learning the deeply rooted percussion and vocal style of Afro-Cuban folkloric and religious music.
“What makes this duo completely different is that I came from the folkloric side and Alfredo came from the classical side. You put those things together and you come out with an extraordinary and different sound.” – Pedrito Martinez
Pianist Alfredo Rodriguez’s sound embodies the collective sound of Miami, blending Latin pop, timba, salsa, bachata, tango, reggaeton, and bolero. It’s a musical fusion that encompasses the diverse Latin community while celebrating individuality and fostering unity. It calls upon Rodriguez’s roots just as much as his newly learned experiences, representing a new phase of life.
Pedrito Martinez is a consummate master of Afro-Cuban folkloric music and the batá drum. Since settling in New York in 1998, Pedrito has recorded or performed with Paul Simon, Wynton Marsalis, and Paquito D’Rivera. He has also worked with Bruce Springsteen, Ruben Blades, Eddie Palmieri, Dave Matthews, and Sting. Moreover, he has contributed to over seventy-five albums.
Furthermore, he is also the world’s first-call rumbero—playing, singing, and dancing with dozens of Cuban rumba groups. Pedrito was a founding member of the highly successful Afro-Cuban/Afro-Beat band Yerba Buena.
Recommended for fans of Poncho Sanchez, Chucho Valdés, Afro-Cuban All Stars and Eddie Palmieri.
📸: Anna Webber

Tab Benoit: Soul of the Swamp Tour at Pantages Theatre
2026-10-01 19:30 - 21:30
“Benoit is a muscular player, one heck of a string bender with aggressive vibrato.” – Rock & Blues Muse

Join us for an exhilarating evening with legendary multi-Grammy nominee and wetlands activist Tab Benoit. Here, he brings his high-energy Soul of the Swamp Tour to stages across America. Known for his passionate performances and deep-rooted connection to the swamp, Tab Benoit is a true master of his craft. Moreover, he boasts over twenty releases that showcase his unique artistry.
He’s scored iconic radio hits like “Nice and Warm” and “Cross the Line” from his 1990s recordings. Also, critics describe Benoit’s voice as “Otis Redding-ish,” and celebrate his guitar playing for its originality and distinctive style. Additionally in 2024, he triumphantly returned with his first recording in thirteen years, I Hear Thunder. There, he signaled that his best work is yet to come.
On the Soul of the Swamp Tour, Tab takes you on a musical journey. Here, he performs songs from his vast catalog and digs deep into the rich tones and storytelling lyrics that have made him an admired figure in the music world. Additionally, true to his authentic style, Tab performs without effects—just a guitar, a cord, and an amp. Thus, this allows the magic of his music to shine through his hands, fingers, and his band.

A powerhouse performer with grit, soul, and serious chops, Ghalia Volt brings a magnetic, high-voltage presence to the stage. Here, she is armed with just a guitar, foot-drums, and raw talent. She’s turned heads at U.S. festivals. Further, she shares bills with the likes of Tab Benoit, Devon Allman and Buddy Guy. Thus, Ghalia’s One-Woman Band delivers pure, unfiltered blues energy. No band. No pretense. Just one woman channeling the ghosts of the Delta with a global fire all her own.
Recommended for fans of Tedeschi Trucks Band, Keb’ Mo’, JJ Grey & Mofro and Kenny Wayne Shepherd.
📸: Jean Frank

Rufus Wainwright
2026-10-05 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-10-06 19:00 - 22:00
“a bounteous feast… he’s never sung better” – Pitchfork

Rufus Wainwright has established himself as one of the great male vocalists, songwriters, and composers of his generation. In a career peppered with critical acclaim, he has been praised by the New York Times for his “genuine originality”. The New York-born, Montreal-raised singer-songwriter has released ten studio albums to date, three DVDs, and three live albums. Also, this includes the Grammy-nominated Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall.
He has collaborated with artists such as Elton John, Burt Bacharach, Miley Cyrus, David Byrne, Boy George, and Joni Mitchell. Also, Pet Shop Boys, Heart, Carly Rae Jepsen, Robbie Williams, Jessye Norman, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Sting, Mark Ronson, and others. Further, he has written two operas and numerous songs for movies and TV.
His 2020 Grammy-nominated studio album of original songs, Unfollow the Rules, finds Wainwright at the peak of his powers. Here, he enters artistic maturity with passion, honesty, and a new-found fearlessness. In 2023, he embarked on a journey to his family folk roots with his Grammy-nominated album Folkocracy. This album features reinvented folk duets with Chaka Khan, Brandi Carlile, John Legend, Anohni and many more.
His first musical of John Cassavetes’ Opening Night for the West End with Ivo van Hove premiered at the Gielgud Theater in March 2024. During this time he also completed a Requiem, which premiered with the Orchestre Philharmonique de la Radio France in June of 2024. Co-commissioners for the Requiem are the Master Chorale in Los Angeles and the Palau de la Musica in Barcelona. Also, Helsinki Symphony Orchestra, the RTE Orchestra in Ireland, and the Royal Ballet London.
Recommended for fans of Regina Spektor, Ben Folds, Ingrid Michaelson and Harry Nilsson.
