Tickets: $45 / $60 / $70
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2019 | Time: 7 p.m.

Whether she’s belting out a raucous blues-rocker, firing up a blistering soul-shouter, bringing spirit to a gospel-fueled R&B rave-up, or digging deep into a country-tinged ballad, Shemekia Copeland sings like no one else. With a voice that is alternately sultry, assertive, and roaring, Copeland’s wide-open vision of contemporary blues, roots, and soul music showcases the evolution of a passionate artist with a modern musical and lyrical approach. Copeland will be joined at DCA by Charleston, South Carolina-based quintet Ranky Tanky, whose name translates loosely as “Work it!” or “Get funky!” In this spirit, Ranky Tanky performs timeless music of the Gullah culture, which was born in the southeastern Sea Island region of the United States. With their repertoire of playful game songs and ecstatic shouts, heartbreaking spirituals and delicate lullabies, Ranky Tanky’s accomplished artists (all natives of South Carolina) bring new life to this inimitable style of music, which was born long ago in their own backyards.

“Fiercely expressive Copeland delivers gale force singing and power with a unique, gutsy style, vibrant emotional palette, and intuitive grasp of the music.” – NPR
“Ranky Tanky: limber rhythms, shining trumpeting…genuine soulfulness.” – Shepherd Express

Shemekia Copeland – Artist Website | Artist Video | | |
Ranky Tanky – Artist Website | Artist Video | | |

Major Sponsors:
     

Supporting Sponsor:
Wisconsin Cheese Masters