Motown legends come to town this weekend, and you can catch a young and upcoming star on Sunday afternoon, and we’re not just talking about the Youth Orchestra. The weather is cold, but the music will warm your soul, so get out and enjoy some.
Friday, Jan. 18 – The Temptations and the Four Tops
It’s Motown night at the Wells Fargo Center, where there is literally not a bad seat in the house. Thanks to their fine-tuned choreography, and even finer harmonies, The Temptations became one of the most successful acts to record for Motown Records.
During the group’s five-decade career, these Grammy winners have charted numerous No. 1 hits including “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Get Ready,” “Just My Imagination,” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” among many others.
The Four Tops teamed up in high school and spent over four decades without a single personnel change to become one of Motown’s most consistent hit makers. “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),” “Reach Out (I’ll Be There),” and “Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I’ve Got)” are just some of their well-known hits.
Venue: Wells Fargo Center, Santa Rosa, 707-546-3600
Friday, Jan. 18 – California Honeydrops
Since their formation four years ago in the subway stations of Oakland, the California Honeydrops have completed six European tours, toured the United States and recorded two full-length albums of original music, all without the help of a record label or major booking agency. Digging deep into the roots of American music, the act embraces the traditions of blues, gospel, second line New Orleans jazz and early R&B.
Venue: HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol, 707- 829-7300
Saturday, Jan. 19 – The Poyntlyss Sistars Rockin’ Show Band
When the act formed in the mid ’80s, they started as a four-person female karaoke act in a nurses unit at a local hospital, then became a loose knit tribute to the Pointer Sisters, but having the actual act so close by, the name and act has changed over the years.
Now a powerhouse dance band that enjoys a broad fan base throughout the SF Bay Area, the show features familiar dance hits from the ’50s through current genres, including costume changes and a fully choreographed stage show.
Venue: Last Day Saloon, Santa Rosa, 707-545-5876
Saturday, Jan. 19 – Hannah Miller
Hannah Jern-Miller is the real deal, folks, and she has been bringing her sultry blend of folk, blues, and vintage rock music to her native Sonoma County for more than 10 years.
Born into a musical family, singing came naturally, and she flourished in Petaluma’s country setting. It was with her father’s old Yamaha guitar that she felt instant comfort, and was inspired to write songs.
As a teenager she began performing at local venues where she quickly gained recognition. After traveling and graduating from UC Berkeley, she continued performing and honing her skills as a musician.
She now lends her vocals, along with her guitar, harmonica, and tambourine skills, to the good-times roots music band, Old Jawbone, along with her solo act. This is an afternoon show, starting at 3 p.m.
Venue: Lagunitas Beer Sanctuary and Taproom, Petaluma, 707- 778-8776
Sunday, Jan. 20 - Bay Area Youth Orchestra
An invitational event hosted by the Santa Rosa Symphony Youth Orchestra, the best of the Bay Area’s young musicians from five area Youth Orchestras, come together for a special performance including Movement IV of Mahler’s Symphony No. 1.
Venue: The Donald and Maureen Green Music Center, Rohnert Park, 866-955-6040
