Urban Classic Presents: The Music of Earth, Wind & Fire

Doors open at 6:00 PM for Dinner and Drink Service An Electrifying Night of Great Soul and R&B Urban Classic is Minneapolis’ latest funk, soul, and R&B band. They present an evening of hit songs by one of the greatest bands in history: Earth, Wind & Fire. The group is led by drummer Michael Bland (Prince & The New Power Generation, Soul Asylum, Maxwell, Chaka Khan). He is joined by longtime associate and collaborator, pianist Tommy Barbarella (Prince, Jonas Brothers). The band features smooth soul vocals and a four-piece horn section. They deliver a level of excellence and musicality rarely seen in the Twin Cities. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear some of the best music ever written, and performed by the best band anywhere: Urban Classic. G-Sharp: Vocals Mark Lickteig: Vocals Jay Bee: Vocals Michael Bland: Drums, Music Director Tommy Barbarella: Keys Geoff LeCrone: Guitars Ron Long: Bass Scott Agster: Trombone Riley Helgeson: Trumpet Josh May: Trumpet John Bertsch: Saxophone Drummer Michael Bland starting in 1989, he was a member of NPG. Also, Bland played with Prince live and on albums for seven years. In 2010, Bland became a member of Nick Jonas & the Administration, a side project of Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers. He and other former members of The New Power Generation, including keyboardist Tommy Barbarella, were part of Nick’s band. Furthermore, he worked with Vulfpeck, playing drums on 2017 single “Hero Town”. Tommy Barbarella is one of the most active keyboard players in Minneapolis and beyond. His work with Prince’s New Power Generation (1991-96) put him on the map. And, his playing with regional funk/soul favorites Greazy Meal cemented his reputation as a go-to funk and pop keyboardist. Recently he has performed with Miley Cyrus, Nick Jonas, and a reunited NPG.