Vocalist

Anyone worried about the state of the blues need only experience Shemekia Copeland to know that the tradition is in very good hands. She debuts at SFJAZZ with music from across her expansive career including material from her latest Alligator Records release Done Come Too Far.

Daughter of the late great Texas guitarist Johnny Copeland and one of the most creative voices defining the blues today, she’s earned a string of honors since releasing her stellar 1998 Alligator debut Turn Up the Heat.

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Shemekia Copeland

SFJAZZ Center

Shemekia Copeland is an award-winning blues, soul, and Americana singer known for her instantly recognizable and deeply soulful voice. Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Copeland made her debut on stage with her famous father at the age of eight. She burst onto the blues and R&B scene with her Alligator Records debut album “Turn The Heat Up” at the young age of 18, instantly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with.

Charles Neville Main Stage

Ruth Davies has a history of bringing SJW audiences closer to the best blues artists in the world, such as Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Charlie Musselwhite, Robben Ford, Henry Butler, and many more. A blues legend herself, who has toured and recorded with artists like John Lee Hooker, Jimmy Witherspoon, Bonnie Raitt, Van Morrison, Elvin Bishop, and many others — Ruth is keeping the flame of traditional blues alive and well. Ruth’s special guest artist this year is the dynamic vocalist Shemekia Copeland, whose talent; larger-than-life personality; dynamic, authoritative voice; and true star power will knock you out. Her recent album for Alligator Records, Uncivil Rest, is a tour-de-force that tackles contemporary issues head-on, while blending blues, R&B, gospel, and Americana as only she can.

Shemekia Copeland

Vocalist

Events

Oct 14, 2023

Shemekia Copeland · San Francisco Jazz

Jul 21, 2023

Shemekia Copeland · Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival

Jul 13, 2022

Ruth Davies’ Blues Night With Special Guest Shemekia Copeland · Stanford Jazz Workshop

About

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