Live Jazz in SF Bay

Goapele is more than an artist; she is a luminous presence in the world of music, a profound voice, and a tireless force of creativity whose artistry has shaped the landscape of modern R&B. Renowned for her captivating sound—a beautiful blend of soul, jazz, pop, and moody basslines—Goapele’s music transcends genres and resonates with universal truths. Her voice, ethereal yet commanding, continues to echo the complexities of life, love, and the human experience in ways that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The Oakland native, born to a South African father who escaped apartheid and a German-Jewish mother from New York, embodies a rich, diverse heritage that has influenced not only her music but also her worldview. Her upbringing—a fusion of cultures and perspectives—served as the perfect backdrop for her musical evolution. Goapele’s formative years at the esteemed Berklee College of Music in Boston honed her extraordinary talent and shaped her voice into one that defies conventional boundaries. Since her 2001 debut with the timeless anthem Closer, Goapele, whose name means “to move forward” in Setswana, has consistently delivered music that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. Her catalog, including albums like Even Closer, Break of Dawn, and her latest, COLOURS, reflects her evolution as an artist and a woman. Described as her most introspective work, COLOURS explores themes of healing, self-worth, and transformation, featuring collaborations with top musicians such as Errol Cooney, Bedrock, and Chris Dave. For Goapele, music is not just a means of self-expression—it is a form of therapy and a vehicle for connection. Her songs serve as a mirror for her own experiences, while inviting listeners to find their own truths within her words. In her own words, "Moments of uncertainty can feel scary, but I try my best and push forward, and trust that things will eventually land where they're supposed to." Beyond music, Goapele has long been a passionate humanitarian and advocate for social change. Through her platform, she has championed causes ranging from racial justice to women’s rights, using her voice to speak up for those whose stories are often left unheard. Her lifestyle brand, Dreamseeker, further reflects her commitment to living authentically, curating a line of scented candles and apparel inspired by her synesthesia, the condition that allows her to experience color through sound. This unique ability shapes her vision of the world and enriches her creative output, leading to immersive experiences that blend music, color, scent, and fashion. Goapele's influence extends beyond the music charts; her songs have become a soundtrack to countless films, television series, and documentaries. From So You Think You Can Dance (Fox) to Hitch (Sony Pictures) and Power (Starz), her music has been the emotional backbone of some of the most impactful visual narratives of our time. She has also made notable appearances in Sparkle (Sony Pictures), Ava DuVernay’s The Door for Miu Miu, and the art-noir short film #WhereIsBeauty, which she also executive produced. Goapele has also performed on global stages alongside legends like Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Common, captivating audiences with her unique blend of artistry and activism. “I strive to create timeless music that inspires and ignites change,” Goapele says. With her enduring legacy of compassion and creativity, Goapele continues to inspire generations through her music, advocacy, and authentic storytelling.

Goapele is more than an artist; she is a luminous presence in the world of music, a profound voice, and a tireless force of creativity whose artistry has shaped the landscape of modern R&B. Renowned for her captivating sound—a beautiful blend of soul, jazz, pop, and moody basslines—Goapele’s music transcends genres and resonates with universal truths. Her voice, ethereal yet commanding, continues to echo the complexities of life, love, and the human experience in ways that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The Oakland native, born to a South African father who escaped apartheid and a German-Jewish mother from New York, embodies a rich, diverse heritage that has influenced not only her music but also her worldview. Her upbringing—a fusion of cultures and perspectives—served as the perfect backdrop for her musical evolution. Goapele’s formative years at the esteemed Berklee College of Music in Boston honed her extraordinary talent and shaped her voice into one that defies conventional boundaries. Since her 2001 debut with the timeless anthem Closer, Goapele, whose name means “to move forward” in Setswana, has consistently delivered music that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. Her catalog, including albums like Even Closer, Break of Dawn, and her latest, COLOURS, reflects her evolution as an artist and a woman. Described as her most introspective work, COLOURS explores themes of healing, self-worth, and transformation, featuring collaborations with top musicians such as Errol Cooney, Bedrock, and Chris Dave. For Goapele, music is not just a means of self-expression—it is a form of therapy and a vehicle for connection. Her songs serve as a mirror for her own experiences, while inviting listeners to find their own truths within her words. In her own words, "Moments of uncertainty can feel scary, but I try my best and push forward, and trust that things will eventually land where they're supposed to." Beyond music, Goapele has long been a passionate humanitarian and advocate for social change. Through her platform, she has championed causes ranging from racial justice to women’s rights, using her voice to speak up for those whose stories are often left unheard. Her lifestyle brand, Dreamseeker, further reflects her commitment to living authentically, curating a line of scented candles and apparel inspired by her synesthesia, the condition that allows her to experience color through sound. This unique ability shapes her vision of the world and enriches her creative output, leading to immersive experiences that blend music, color, scent, and fashion. Goapele's influence extends beyond the music charts; her songs have become a soundtrack to countless films, television series, and documentaries. From So You Think You Can Dance (Fox) to Hitch (Sony Pictures) and Power (Starz), her music has been the emotional backbone of some of the most impactful visual narratives of our time. She has also made notable appearances in Sparkle (Sony Pictures), Ava DuVernay’s The Door for Miu Miu, and the art-noir short film #WhereIsBeauty, which she also executive produced. Goapele has also performed on global stages alongside legends like Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Common, captivating audiences with her unique blend of artistry and activism. “I strive to create timeless music that inspires and ignites change,” Goapele says. With her enduring legacy of compassion and creativity, Goapele continues to inspire generations through her music, advocacy, and authentic storytelling.

This Easter Sunday, Yoshi’s Oakland is honored to welcome the legendary Fred Hammond for an unforgettable night of praise, joy, and soul-stirring music. Hosted by KDYA Radio personality Steven Parker, the evening promises two uplifting shows filled with spirit and celebration. Making his first-ever appearance at Yoshi’s, Fred Hammond will deliver a heartfelt performance featuring gospel classics and fan favorites, including: No Weapon, You are the living Word, We’re Blessed, Love Never Fails, Make Me Like the Moon …and more timeless songs that have inspired generations. Widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in contemporary gospel, Fred Hammond is not only a celebrated singer but also a gifted bass guitarist and record producer. His artistry blends gospel with the sounds of R&B, hip-hop, and even disco—creating a dynamic style that continues to move audiences worldwide. Join us for a night of faith, fellowship, and music that will lift your spirit and make this Easter truly unforgettable. Presented by Mark Elliott & The A-List Musiq Circle – Your Bay Area’s Who’s Who Entertainment Network and Steven Parker of The Steven Parker Show. FRED HAMMOND For more than 40 years, music lovers around the world have known Grammy Award-winning artist Fred Hammond as a gifted vocalist, songwriter, musician, producer, and arranger. But as his peers and supporters alike have so reverently declared, he is without debate the architect behind the creation of a phenomenon in Gospel music, Urban Praise & Worship—a genre of gospel music that did not exist prior. As a result, Fred Hammond has become one of the most respected names in the music industry! In fact, Essence Magazine (2017 Collector’s Edition) names Fred Hammond in the esteemed list of the 50 Greatest Male Singers of All Time! Fred Hammond has been hailed as an Inspirational Music Icon whose music STILL reaches people from all walks of life. Chance the Rapper recently performed his remake of Hammond's hit song “Let The Praise Begin" (entitled “Blessing/Are You Ready") on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Jamie Foxx performed Hammond’s signature hit anthem “No Weapon” during his acceptance speech at the NAACP Awards and elaborated during an interview (on Jimmy Kimmel Live) about how the song had such an incredible impact on Quentin Tarantino, Kerry Washington, and the cast of D’Jango as they were shooting some of their most intense, heart-wrenching scenes. And in a recent Instagram post, Pop/Hip-Hop Music Icon Justin Bieber declared Hammond’s “No Weapon” to be his “…favorite song!”

This Easter Sunday, Yoshi’s Oakland is honored to welcome the legendary Fred Hammond for an unforgettable night of praise, joy, and soul-stirring music. Hosted by KDYA Radio personality Steven Parker, the evening promises two uplifting shows filled with spirit and celebration. Making his first-ever appearance at Yoshi’s, Fred Hammond will deliver a heartfelt performance featuring gospel classics and fan favorites, including: No Weapon, You are the living Word, We’re Blessed, Love Never Fails, Make Me Like the Moon …and more timeless songs that have inspired generations. Widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in contemporary gospel, Fred Hammond is not only a celebrated singer but also a gifted bass guitarist and record producer. His artistry blends gospel with the sounds of R&B, hip-hop, and even disco—creating a dynamic style that continues to move audiences worldwide. Join us for a night of faith, fellowship, and music that will lift your spirit and make this Easter truly unforgettable. Presented by Mark Elliott & The A-List Musiq Circle – Your Bay Area’s Who’s Who Entertainment Network and Steven Parker of The Steven Parker Show. FRED HAMMOND For more than 40 years, music lovers around the world have known Grammy Award-winning artist Fred Hammond as a gifted vocalist, songwriter, musician, producer, and arranger. But as his peers and supporters alike have so reverently declared, he is without debate the architect behind the creation of a phenomenon in Gospel music, Urban Praise & Worship—a genre of gospel music that did not exist prior. As a result, Fred Hammond has become one of the most respected names in the music industry! In fact, Essence Magazine (2017 Collector’s Edition) names Fred Hammond in the esteemed list of the 50 Greatest Male Singers of All Time! Fred Hammond has been hailed as an Inspirational Music Icon whose music STILL reaches people from all walks of life. Chance the Rapper recently performed his remake of Hammond's hit song “Let The Praise Begin" (entitled “Blessing/Are You Ready") on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Jamie Foxx performed Hammond’s signature hit anthem “No Weapon” during his acceptance speech at the NAACP Awards and elaborated during an interview (on Jimmy Kimmel Live) about how the song had such an incredible impact on Quentin Tarantino, Kerry Washington, and the cast of D’Jango as they were shooting some of their most intense, heart-wrenching scenes. And in a recent Instagram post, Pop/Hip-Hop Music Icon Justin Bieber declared Hammond’s “No Weapon” to be his “…favorite song!”

The West Coast Blues Society and Visit Oakland Presents The Oakland Blues Walk of Fame Stolen Plaques Fundraiser concert. This concert will bring you the many different styles of Oakland's R&B and Blues. Featuring: The Best Artist in the bay, the Queen of Bay Area R&B, Dee Dee Simon; Harmonica legend Rick Estrin of Little Charlie & The Nightcats; Lady with Soul, Niecey Living Single; Guitar Show Man, Alvon Johnson; The legend himself, Filmore Slim; Grammy Nominee and Universal Sony Recording Artist, Xymphoni; just returning from a Las Vegas run, Silk-E; American Indian Blues Vocalist, Eli the Chief Albert; German Soul Brother with the Blues, Reggie Rolls; West Coast Caravan of All Stars Review with Sweet Meat Horns and last but certainly not the least, our MC Brenda Knight of Ladies in Red. This is a Non-Stop, exciting show!!

Jazz pianist Alex Bugnon has been a prolific, energetic force on the contemporary music scene for more than two decades. A renowned musician/composer/bandleader, Bugnon hales from the picturesque town of Montreux, Switzerland – site of the world famous Jazz Festival. No doubt, the annual convergence in his hometown and in his own home of some of music’s most illustrious names played a role in his decision to pursue a musical career, as did his early friendship with Herbie Hancock. The fact that his uncle was the legendary Donald Byrd only served to further his decision. Bugnon left Montreux to continue his training at a music conservatory in Paris before landing in Boston to further hone his skills at the famed Berklee School of Music. It was here in the U.S. that his exposure to a diversity of musical styles – from R&B to gospel and funk- began to shape and influence his personal sound. He toured the south playing with Gospel Leviticus and, after graduating from Berklee, had the opportunity to play in bands backing R&B greats Patti Austin & James Ingram, Melba Moore, Freddie Jackson, and Keith Sweat. In between gigs, he drove cabs and taught French at the Berlitz School as a means to support his musical career. But it would be his encounter with saxophonist Najee that would ultimately turn the tide for him. Signed to Orpheus Records, Najee would make the introduction that would result in Alex’s first recording contract. His first album, Love Season (1989), with the fledgling record label, catapulted the virtual unknown to prominence and set him on his musical course. The album rocketed to number 2 on the R&B charts and was nominated for best jazz album at the Soul Train Awards. In 1991, Alex released his second album for Orpheus, Head Over Heels, and like the first, it became a chart topper, cementing his position as a radio and fan favorite on the R&B and smooth jazz circuit, earning him Black Radio Exclusive’s Best New Artist Award. It was no coincidence that Alex was embraced by an R&B/soul audience, after all his love of music was rooted in an appreciation and understanding of classic jazz and soul-based artists, “from Memphis Slim and Bill Evans, to Herbie Hancock, Thelonius Monk, Art Blakey and Earth, Wind and Fire.” This was his inspiration, and it easily translated into his own compositions and in his delivery of the standards. In 1991, he parted ways with Orpheus Records and signed with Epic to record his award-winning third album, 107 Degrees in the Shade (1991), for which he received a Soul Train Award. He would release one more album under the Epic label, the best-selling This Time Around (1993), before signing with RCA for Tales from the Bright Side (1995), before taking a five-year hiatus from recording. As the new century began, Alex was also beginning anew. Signed to the Narada/EMI label, he resurfaced with the first of four albums for the label: As Promised (2000), followed by Soul Purpose (2001), Southern Living (2003), and Free (2005). Then, in 2007, a chance meeting with award-winning producer and label founder, Michael Cuscuna, resulted in a comprehensive compilation album, The Ultimate Alex Bugnon, featuring cuts from each of his past recordings, and giving Alex a taste of what he had always been in search of – control. The Ultimate Alex Bugnon was released on Michael Cuscuna’s Mosaic label and provided Alex the time needed to give thought to his creative process and allowed him to return to what was important to him as an artist, as a composer, and as a musician.

In 1979, the Sugarhill Gang crashed through the walls of the urban cities and into the mainstream of society with the first worldwide rap hit, "Rapper's Delight." Two of the original members of this historic group, Wonder Mike (Michael Wright) and Master Gee (Guy O’Brien), had teamed up with Henry Jackson (pka Big Bank Hank) to become the now famous Sugarhill Gang. Sugarhill Gang is believed by many to be the first professional Hip Hop group, because they introduced to the masses (both in the United States and overseas) this unprecedented genre of music. “Rapper's Delight” eventually sold over 8 million copies and went on to be the biggest-selling rap single of all time. Even today, it continues to appeal to audiences of all ages. Shortly thereafter, the Sugarhill Gang released such hits as “Apache,” “8th Wonder,” and “Living in the Fast Lane.” Wonder Mike and Master Gee teamed up with Henry Williams (pka Hendogg) and DJ T. Dynasty, both who has performed with the group for 20 years and counting, creating new music, while still pleasing the crowds with their greatest hits. In the Summer of 2009, they released their first song in 25 years with international DJ phenom Bob Sinclair called “LaLa Song,” which quickly became an uber hit overseas, securing Song of the Year for many European countries, including Italy. The hit single is currently being released in the United States. Wonder Mike, Master Gee, Hendogg, and DJ Dynasty continue their tradition of creating a party atmosphere that makes everyone dance the night away as they perform for sold-out crowds throughout the world.

With a career spanning over three decades, The Pharcyde remains one of the most influential and beloved groups in hip-hop history. Formed in South Central Los Angeles, the group made an indelible mark on the culture with their groundbreaking debut album, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde (1992), an instant classic known for its playful lyricism, jazz-infused production, and infectious energy. The album spawned timeless hits like "Passin’ Me By," "Otha Fish," and "Ya Mama," establishing The Pharcyde as a breath of fresh air in an era dominated by gangsta rap. Their follow-up, Labcabincalifornia (1995), showcased a more refined and introspective sound, featuring the production genius of a young J Dilla and delivering the timeless hit "Runnin’"—a track that continues to be a staple in hip-hop playlists worldwide. Now consisting of Fatlip, Imani, and Slimkid3, The Pharcyde continues to bring their signature high-energy performances to stages across the globe. Their live shows are a testament to their deep catalog, blending nostalgia with raw lyricism, acrobatic flows, and an undeniable stage presence that keeps crowds moving from start to finish. From performing at major festivals to rocking intimate venues, The Pharcyde’s live show is a must-see experience—full of charisma, humor, and the dynamic chemistry that made them icons in the first place. Their influence can be heard in generations of artists who followed, and their legacy remains strong as they continue to tour, create, and connect with hip-hop heads old and new. Whether you fell in love with them in the '90s or just discovered their music, The Pharcyde remains a powerful force in hip-hop—timeless, innovative, and forever fun.