Urban Classic Presents: The Music of Rufus and Chaka Khan

Urban Classic, under the musical direction of Michael Bland, are launching a new show honoring Rufus and Chaka Khan. This show will be a high-energy, soulful journey through one of the most electrifying catalogs in funk and R&B history, celebrating the unmatched vocal power and charisma that defined their sound. Songs featured will include the irresistible grooves of Tell Me Something Good, You Got the Love, Once You Get Started, I’m Every Woman, Sweet Thing, Ain’t Nobody, and many more. This show will leave the audience immersed in the legacy of funk, soul, and pure vocal fire of Rufus and Chaka Khan featuring Ashley Commodore and Urban Classic.

Michael Bland: Music Director and Drums

Ashley Commodore: Vocals

GSharp: Vocals

Jay Bee: Vocals

Monique Blakey: Vocals

Tommy Barbarella: Keyboards

Ron Long: Bass

Tracey Blake: Guitar

Mychael Gabriel: Guitar

Scott Agster: Trombone

John Bertsch: Sax

Josh May: Trumpet

Michael Bland - is a powerhouse American drummer, producer, and bandleader best known for his explosive style and deep roots in Minneapolis’ legendary funk and R&B scene. Rising to prominence as a member of Prince’s New Power Generation in the early 1990s, Bland quickly earned a reputation for his precision, versatility, and high-energy performances on tours and recordings like Diamonds and Pearls. A native of Minneapolis, he has collaborated with a wide range of major artists including Chaka Khan, Maxwell, Cory Wong and Soul Asylum, showcasing his ability to move seamlessly between funk, rock, jazz, and soul. Beyond performing, Bland has contributed as a producer and musical director, and he continues to be a central figure in live music and studio work, respected for both his technical mastery and his feel-driven groove.

Ashley Commodore - is a talented vocalist known for her contributions to the jazz and neo-soul genres. She is a member of the jazz vocal ensemble Moore By Four, which has been celebrated for its jazzy harmonies and performances. Ashley's musical journey began with her family's legacy in music, with her mother, Ginger, father, Bobby, and brother, Brandon, all performing in various music genres. Ashley has also been featured with Grammy Award-winning group the Sounds of Blackness and currently tours with national recording artist Stokley Williams. Her performances are a testament to her skill and dedication to her craft

Tommy Barbarella – is an American keyboardist he was a member of The New Power Generation, Prince’s recording and stage band, from 1991 to 1996. Barbarella also played on Miley Cyrus’s album Breakout. In 2010, Tommy became a member of Nick Jonas & the Administration. As a frequent arranger his “Symphony of the North” collaboration with the Minnesota Orchestra and The Minnesota Vikings won BEST SHOW OPEN at the annual Golden Matrix Awards 2022. His keyboard work can be heard on recordings by artists as diverse as Demi Lovato, Switchfoot, Backstreet Boys, Ziggy Marley, Miley Cyrus, Mandy Moore and many more.

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