As one of the most notable soul music cities, Chicago knows a thing or two about soul. With artists like Curtis Mayfield and The Impressions, the city developed its own sound from the late ’50s to the mid-1970s, featuring soulful vocals layered with brass sections and strings. This season, The Jazz Room: Tribute to Soul is venturing into other styles of the genre, giving Chicagoans a taste of Motown and Southern soul music, among others.
Performing a curated setlist of heartfelt hits, such as the funk-infused “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross and the infectious rhythms of “Mustang Sally” by Wilson Pickett, a live music band will showcase a mix of classic and more modern melodies. You can catch this captivating show on select dates at The Den Theatre in Wicker Park. Places are limited so don’t wait too long to secure your spot.
What to expect at this soul tribute?
Soul music connects with people because it can express any emotion we’re feeling. So no matter what stage of your life you find yourself, you’ll fit right in. Over the course of 60 minutes, you’ll hear a blend of iconic and contemporary soul songs known for their unmistakable vocals and basslines, and their strong dancefloor pull. This will all be made even more enjoyable as you sip on your drink of choice, getting lost in the music that stirs the heart.
Soul, its story and the show
Born from a mixture of gospel and rhythm and blues in African-American communities, soul is a genre that is both deeply personal and connects with a wide range of audiences. In the ’60s, soul became the heartbeat of the Civil Rights Movement, aiming to abolish racial segregation and discrimination. But it was the big music labels like Motown and Atlantic Records that helped the genre become more popular and mainstream.
The Jazz Room: Tribute to Soul celebrates soul’s lasting impact, featuring melodies that are smooth yet defiant, sweet yet groovy. Hear Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” and “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green in an intimate setting, and top it all off with a refreshing cocktail!
On select dates, music fans can experience an incredible performance where funk, R&B and gospel collide at The Den Theatre. Whether you wish to go on a solo adventure and really take in these timeless tunes, or bring your loved ones with, this moving tribute to soul is a great evening plan for every music lover.
Each evening, there will be two back-to-back performances on offer, at 6:00pm and 8:30pm. Tickets are sold in categories and seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
