“Damien Sneed is an ambassador for classical and gospel music who brings positivity, optimism and thoroughness to every occasion. His talent stretches across traditional divisions. In the realest sense, he uses his artistry to make our world a better place.”
A Tribute to Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul
with Damien Sneed and Karen Clark Sheard
Versatile and accomplished musician Damien Sneed returns following his homage to the life and times of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. last season—now with four-time Grammy winner and gospel star Karen Clark Sheard. Joined by an A-list of jazz, gospel, and soul musicians and vocalists, Sneed and Clark Sheard offer a rousing tribute to Sneed’s former mentor, the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Sneed toured with Franklin on keyboard and organ in the later part of her career, and here offers fresh renditions of some of her most beloved hits, including “Respect,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Think,” “Until You Come Back to Me,” “Freeway,” and “Natural Woman.”
Video
Program Notes
Program notes will be available approximately one week before the performance.
This performance, as well as all remaining events on our 2020/21 Season, has been canceled. As large gatherings are still not allowed by state, local, and university officials at this time we regret to announce that we will be unable to present our spring 2021 performances as originally planned. Ticket holders are being notified by either mail or email.