Vocalist

Guest vocalists join the Symphony to perform by such iconic artists as Michael Jackson, Prince, Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and many others to celebrate the voices that changed music!

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ICON: The Voices That Changed Music

Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Elvis. Prince. Michael Jackson. Diana Ross. Whitney Houston. Stevie Wonder. Celebrate the greatest voices of all time in this powerhouse concert. Houston favorites Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw join forces with the Symphony for the biggest hits by the most iconic artists of all time, including beloved songs like “Purple Rain,” “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” “Lady Marmalade,” and “Hey Jude.”

Icon: The Voices that Changed Music

Jones Hall

Explore the legendary sound worlds of Michael Jackson, Prince, Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and many others as acclaimed vocalists Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw partner with the A2SO. This full-scale production pairs Broadway stars with returning guest conductor Lucas Waldin and full orchestra for a thrilling night of popular classics.

Michigan Theater

A tribute to the ultimate “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin featuring Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw

Aretha: A Tribute

Julie Rogers Theatre

Broadway vocalists Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw join the orchestra for a celebration of the voices that changed music, from Whitney Houston to Prince, Gladys Knight, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and more.

Icon: The Voices That Changed Music

Saenger Theatre Pensacola

Jingle all the way as we bring holiday magic to life on stage! Broadway star Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy-nominee Ryan Shaw will deliver powerhouse vocals in holiday classics that’ll have you rocking around Abravanel Hall. The Holiday Pops Extravaganza has been one of our best-selling concerts for the past two years—so whether you’re naughty, nice, or somewhere in between, this is one holiday tradition you’ll need to add to your list!

Holiday Pops Extravaganza

Salt Palace Convention Center

Take a journey through the soundtrack of your life with Broadway sensation Capathia Jenkins and GRAMMY-nominee Ryan Shaw. Backed by the BSO, these powerhouse musicians perform the music that defined American culture — from Michael Jackson and Prince to Whitney Houston, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder — for an inspiring and fun tribute to these musical icons.

Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall

The Music Center at Strathmore

Starring Capathia Jenkins & Ryan Shaw, this musical celebration features tunes by legendary artists who changed music forever, including Michael Jackson, Prince, Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and many others.

Iconic Voices of Change: Prince, Whitney, Michael and MORE!

Long Beach Convention Center

At any one time, there’s only a handful of singers and songs that can impact us with almost spiritual power. Join us as we explore these unique touchstones in an unforgettable evening of music by Whytney, Elton, Gladys, Michael, Diana, Prince, Tina, Elvis, Stevie, The Beatles, and more.

Pop Icons: From Prince to Whitney

Winspear Centre

Broadway star Capathia Jenkins and three-time GRAMMY® Award nominee Ryan Shaw join the orchestra for a tribute to the Queen of Soul. Celebrate the legacy of Aretha Franklin with performances of iconic hits like “Respect,” “Think,” “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” “Amazing Grace,” and many more.

Aretha: A Tribute featuring Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw

Chrysler Hall Norfolk

Join the Reno Phil as we come back to Tahoe this summer to commemorate musical icons! This high-energy show celebrates the legendary musicians who have left an indelible mark on the world. Starring Capathia Jenkins & Ryan Shaw with an unforgettable performance from the Reno Phil, led by Music Director Laura Jackson, this program will feature songs by iconic artists - Michael Jackson, Prince, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and many others.

Icons - Voices That Changed Music

Sand Harbor State Park

Paul Simon has been crafting tunes and enchanting audiences for more than half a century, penning hundreds of songs from “The Boxer” to "Bridge over Troubled Water” to the indelible music of the Graceland album, and many more. In this special symphonic program, favorite hits, as well as a few deep cuts, are brought to life by two powerhouse singers, Morgan James and Ryan Shaw, in new orchestrations that showcase the enduring excitement of these iconic songs.

Kodachrome: The Music of Paul Simon

Embarcadero Marina Park South

The Legends of R&B show featuring multi-GRAMMY® nominee Ryan Shaw has been rescheduled to June 15, 2025. Tickets for the original date are valid for the rescheduled performance, and ticket holders who purchased tickets prior to September 12 received an email with exchange options.

Legends of R&B featuring vocalist Ryan Shaw

Shermerhorn Symphony Center

Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw return to the Princeton Festival stage with a brand-new program featuring songs by such iconic artists as Prince, Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and many others, performing with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra conducted by Lucas Waldin.

Morven Museum & Garden 

A tribute to the ultimate “Queen of Soul,” this program features symphony-favorite Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy Award nominee Ryan Shaw performing iconic hits like Respect, Think, A Natural Woman, Chain of Fools, Amazing Grace, and many others. Come ready to sing and dance at this soul-filled concert.

The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater

Ryan Shaw Masters of R&B

Kleinhans Music Hall

This high-energy, glittering tribute to the Queen of Soul features your Modesto Symphony Orchestra with Broadway star Capathia Jenkins! The evening will feature Aretha Franklin’s iconic hits like “Respect,” “Think,” “You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” “Amazing Grace,” and many more.

Gallo Center for the Arts

This high-energy, dazzling tribute to the Queen of Soul features Drama Desk Award nominee Capathia Jenkins and three-time GRAMMY-nominated artist Ryan Shaw performing iconic favorites including “Respect,” “Think,” “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” “Amazing Grace,” and more.

Morris Performing Arts Center

A Tribute to the Queen of Soul, this program features symphony favorite Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy Award nominee Ryan Shaw performing such iconic hits as “Respect,” “Think,” “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” “Amazing Grace,” and many others.

Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts

Experience a special one-hour performance of Christmas Pops with the whole family! Featuring the Dallas Symphony Children’s Chorus and an appearance by Santa himself, you won’t want to miss it.

Family Christmas Pops

Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

Celebrate the holiday season with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra at the enchanting "Christmas Pops" concert series. Running from December 6th to December 15th, 2024, at various times, this festive event promises to fill the air with the glorious sounds of the season. Under the baton of conductor Lawrence Loh, the performances will feature the magnificent Dallas Symphony Chorus and the Dallas Symphony Children’s Chorus, led by chorus director Anthony Blake Clark and artistic director Ellie Lin, respectively. Adding to the magic will be the extraordinary talents of vocalists Capathia Jenkins, a renowned actress and star of Broadway, TV, and movies, and Ryan Shaw, a three-time GRAMMY-nominated artist. Together, they will perform a collection of your favorite seasonal songs, carols, and thrilling choruses.

The concert series will also include special appearances by the Dallas Symphony Children’s Chorus at the matinee performances, ensuring a heartwarming experience for all ages. Bradley Hunter Welch, the resident organist, will further elevate the performances with his mastery. And, as no holiday celebration is complete without a visit from Santa Claus, expect some jolly surprises that will delight the entire family.

Mark your calendars for this holiday spectacle and prepare to be swept away by the spirit of the season with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra's "Christmas Pops."

Christmas Pops

Experience the unforgettable magic of Motown with the Houston Symphony's special concert event, "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough: The Music of Motown." This electrifying performance is set to take place at Jones Hall, with shows on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 7:30 PM, and Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 2:00 PM. Under the baton of celebrated conductor Steven Reineke, known for his expertise in popular music and his roles with some of North America's most prestigious orchestras, the evening promises to be a soul-stirring journey through the timeless hits of Motown.

Joining the orchestra are the sensational vocalists Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw, who will bring to life the iconic sounds of legends like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, The Supremes, and more. Expect to hear your favorite Motown hits in a way that’s guaranteed to have you "Dancing in the Streets." This concert is not just a performance but a celebration of the music that defined a generation with its joyful beats and relatable lyrics.

In addition to the main event, all ticketholders are invited to a FREE Encore After Party following Saturday’s performance, offering a perfect opportunity to extend the evening's enjoyment. Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a chance to groove to the soulful beats of Motown, this concert is the perfect pick.

Subscriptions for the 2024-25 season are currently available, providing savings, priority seating, and special perks for subscribers. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a new season of music with the Houston Symphony. Select your package today and prepare for an unforgettable experience with "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough: The Music of Motown."

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough: The Music of Motown

Experience an unforgettable evening of soulful music with the Nashville Symphony, conducted by Lucas Waldin, as they join forces with three-time GRAMMY nominee Ryan Shaw. Known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Ryan Shaw will deliver a captivating performance featuring a blend of classic R&B hits and his original compositions. The concert will showcase timeless songs from legendary artists such as Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, Prince, Jackie Wilson, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Miracles, Bill Withers, Isaac Hayes, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. With masterful orchestrations and Shaw's mighty vocals, this event promises to be a celebration of the rich heritage of R&B music, bringing together the best of the genre in a single, electrifying performance.

Ryan Shaw Masters Of R&b With The Nashville Symphony

Nashville Symphony Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Join us for a spectacular evening under the stars as the Hartford Symphony Orchestra's Talcott Mountain Music Festival proudly presents "Aretha: A Tribute." This special event is set to take place at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center, located at 22 Iron Horse Boulevard, Simsbury, CT, 06070, United States, on Friday, June 28, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Celebrate the legacy of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, with an unforgettable performance featuring vocal powerhouses Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw. They will bring to life some of Aretha Franklin's most iconic hits, including "Respect," "Think," and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman." The evening will also include a heartfelt Salute to Ray Charles, capturing the essence of the 1960s golden age of soul music.

Tickets go on sale on April 29th. The gates will open at 6:00 PM, and all concerts will begin at 7:30 PM. In case of rain, a rain date is scheduled for Saturday, June 29th. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating. Picnics are allowed, but no hard liquor is permitted. Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on-site.

For ticket purchases, visit hartfordsymphony.org, call 860.987.5900, or buy in person at the Bushnell Box Office located at 166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106, Monday through Friday from 10am-5pm. A limited number of parking passes are available for purchase in advance, and free parking is available off Iron Horse Blvd. and throughout Simsbury. A convenient and free shuttle service from Henry James Memorial Middle School will start at 5:30 PM each evening.

Please note that smoking, hard liquor, drugs, pets, and other prohibited items are not allowed on the grounds. Audio and video recording, as well as flash photography, are prohibited during the performance.

Don't miss this soul-stirring tribute to Aretha Franklin, an evening that promises to be a highlight of the Talcott Mountain Music Festival.

Aretha: A Tribute — Hartford Symphony Orchestra’s Talcott Mountain Music Festival

Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center

A tribute to the Queen of Soul, this program features symphony favorite Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy Award-nominee Ryan Shaw performing such iconic hits as “Respect,” “Think,” “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” “Amazing Grace,” and many others.

New Jersey Symphony: Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin

New Jersey Performing Arts Center

A tribute to the Queen of Soul, this program features symphony favorite Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy Award-nominee Ryan Shaw performing such iconic hits as "Respect," "Think," "A Natural Woman," "Chain of Fools," "Amazing Grace," and many others.

Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin

Mayo Performing Arts Center

State Theatre New Jersey

Count Basie Center for the Arts

Step back in time and relive the golden era of music with “Nat King Cole Christmas” presented by Magic 101.3. This special concert, set to take place at The Louisville Palace Theatre on December 20, 2023, at 7:30 PM, is a tribute to the legendary Nat King Cole. Conducted by Gabriel Lefkowitz and featuring Terri Lyne Carrington on drums as the Music Director, the evening promises a mix of holiday and iconic songs performed by a stellar array of Grammy-honored musicians and all-stars from the music and theater worlds. With historical images, TV footage, and Nat’s most memorable hits, this concert is both an aural and visual homage to a musical icon.

Holiday: Nat King Cole Christmas

Louisville Palace Theatre

Get ready to groove as we pay homage to the Queen of Soul! From “Respect” to “Chain of Fools” and “Amazing Grace,” the powerhouse vocals of Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw will lead us to reminisce over Aretha Franklin’s greatest hits. This high-energy performance will have you dancing in your seat and singing along.

Buddy Holly Hall

Lubbock Symphony-Aretha: A Tribute

Celebrate the legends who redefined popular music in a high-energy tribute to some of the greatest voices of all time. Electrifying orchestral arrangements bring to life unforgettable hits by Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Whitney Houston, Elvis Presley, and more. From soul-stirring ballads to chart-topping anthems, this dynamic program is a thrilling celebration of the artists whose music shaped generations and continues to inspire today.

Vocalist

Ryan Shaw

Events

Upcoming events

Aug 8, 2026

The Voices that Changed Music · The Cleveland Orchestra

Past events

May 16, 2026

ICON: The Voices That Changed Music · North Carolina Symphony

24 - 26 Apr, 2026

Icon: The Voices that Changed Music · Houston Symphony

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