The UC Theatre, Taub Family Music Hall in Berkeley, CA presents three upcoming reggae and world music shows in 2023. On the bill are KES, YUSSEF DAYES, and SAMMY J. The venue is located in downtown Berkeley. They always have an eclectic line-up of the most amazing musicians. Upcoming on their calendar in the reggae and world music genres are 3 important shows.
KES
From Trinidad, KES is performing on Wednesday, November 29. Opening acts are Teddyson John from St. Lucia and Jimmy October from Trinidad. Trinidad & Tobago is one of the world’s true melting pots, an island nation whose citizens have pulled from their African, Asian, Latin, European and Amerindian heritage to innovate in the fields of music, art, food and having a good time.
LISTEN TO KES HERE
Of the many musical acts that call this twin-island republic home, none embody this mixture more than KES (aka KES THE BAND) the eclectic outfit behind some of modern Caribbean music’s most indelible anthems.
Kes is celebrated for their instant soca classics (“Wotless,” “Savannah Grass”) and laid-back island pop jams (“Tuesday on the Rocks,” “Hello”). The band has brought Trinidad to the world, sharing stages with the likes of Will Smith, Major Lazer and John Legend and collaborating with artists from Wizkid to Snoop Dogg. The group is charismatic singer Kees Dieffenthaller (also known as KES) and his brothers Jon (guitar) and Hans (drums), along with childhood friend, Riad Boochoon (bass). They blend pop, rock, reggae, calypso, dancehall and afrobeats together is one part of their greater calling: To spread good vibes.
Yussef Dayes
Then on Friday, December 2, Yussef Dayes performs in support of his new album. He is an English drummer and composer. Yussef is prominent in the South London contemporary jazz scene.
LISTEN TO YUSSEFF DAYES HERE
“My debut album and an art piece that has been in the works since the beginning. Feelings of love, healing, grief, inspiration, more life, unity, groove, spirit and travels…This album is the embodiment of my life to this point. For everyone that has supported my art or is discovering my music now, I am grateful to be able to share this with you.” Opening acts are Aneesa Strings
and DJ Wonway
Sammy J
On Friday, December 15, Sammy J brings the Pacific Island sound to Berkeley. His sound is somewhere between the charisma of Frank Sinatra, the empathetic tone of Bob Marley, and the smooth and sultry vocal runs of Lauryn Hill. An Australian native, Sammy Johnson embraces his Maori and Polynesian roots to create positive and uplifting music. Blending together island reggae, soul and jazz vibes with heartfelt lyrics, Sammy’s sound is exhilarating and intoxicating.
LISTEN TO SAMMY J HERE
Sammy J has been waving the flag for the Pacific Island sound. He has quickly become a leader of the scene alongside new school artists like J Boog and veterans like Katchafire. He got his big break via Youtube after his video for “Don’t Say Goodbye” became a viral sensation. It racked up over 10,000,000 plays. Not too long after, a Hawaiian-based producer contacted Sammy and offered him a record deal with Island Empire Records. This label is home to groups like Common Kings, Tenelle, and Fiji.
Tickets
All shows are all ages.
Doors: 7:00pm • Show: 8:00pm.
Gen. Admission Standing Room
w/ Limited Seating
Ticket prices vary and can be purchased at www.theuctheatre.org
