1/18/27: “Lift Every Voice” Free MLK Day Gospel/Blues Concert at SF’s Castro Theatre (2027) - FREE

On January 18, 2027, San Francisco’s historic Castro Theatre will serve as the vibrant setting for Lift Every Voice: A Singer Showcase, a free concert commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day through a rich musical tribute to Black cultural traditions. Presented by the San Francisco International Arts Festival (SFIAF), this event highlights the enduring legacies of gospel, blues, and jazz within the African American musical heritage.

The evening’s performance features the Dee Spencer Trio, led by Dr. Dee Spencer, an accomplished jazz educator and performer with deep roots in the Bay Area music scene. Dr. Spencer’s ensemble is joined by guest vocalist and master of ceremonies Clairdee, whose jazz-inflected style draws from iconic predecessors while maintaining her own distinctive voice. Complementing the core group are 17 community singers who bring additional layers of collective expression to the program.

Instrumental contributions from bassist Jewell McMillon and drummer Ruthie Price provide a dynamic rhythmic foundation throughout the showcase. McMillon, a Bay Area-based artist known for her versatility and engagement with local Black American musical styles, and Price, a seasoned drummer with experience spanning jazz, gospel, funk, and beyond, are integral to the concert’s vibrant sound.

This year’s venue shift to the Castro Theatre, with its 1,200-seat capacity and storied architectural grandeur, marks a significant expansion from previous iterations held at SFJAZZ. The move reflects the growing audience and community enthusiasm for Lift Every Voice, underscoring its importance as a cultural and musical event in San Francisco’s calendar.

The concert is designed not only to entertain but also to foster community involvement by connecting professional musicians with local participants. This engagement encourages a deeper appreciation of Black music’s historical and contemporary contributions, creating an interactive space where cultural pride is cultivated and celebrated.

Dr. Dee Spencer’s extensive background includes founding the Jazz Studies program at San Francisco State University and collaborations with notable jazz figures. Her leadership in this showcase underscores the educational and artistic aspirations of the event, aiming to inspire audiences and performers alike.

Clairdee’s role as both guest vocalist and MC introduces narratorial elements to the evening, guiding the audience through the musical journey with sophistication and warmth. Her career, marked by performances at prestigious venues and collaborations with respected jazz musicians, adds a layer of professional finesse to the program.

The diverse roster of community singers, representing various local talents, contributes to the event’s communal spirit. Their participation exemplifies the inclusive ethos of Lift Every Voice, emphasizing shared cultural heritage through collective musical expression.

Supported by the San Francisco Arts Commission and other arts funding bodies, the concert remains free to the public, enabling broad access to a high-caliber artistic experience. This accessibility aligns with the event’s mission to honor Dr. King’s legacy through celebration and education.

As San Francisco prepares to observe MLK Day this year, Lift Every Voice stands out as a testament to the power of music in promoting cultural understanding and unity. By elevating Black musical traditions within a historic local venue, the event reaffirms the city’s commitment to honoring the past while inspiring future generations.