American Roots Revue is a revolving showcase of world-class musicians and musical repertoire, who have toured throughout the region for the last decade. Produced by Long, each curated performance features American roots standards, spanning folk, blues, jazz, gospel, pop and rock, plus original songs by guest artists and the core group
American Roots Revue returned to the Dakota on April 8, 2022 for a sold out performance in downtown Minneapolis with a spectacular lineup featuring Robert Robinson (“Pavarotti of Gospel”), Claudia Schmidt (“Masterful Weaver of Story & Song”), Tonia Hughes (“Powerhouse of Soul”), and Larry Long (“American Troubadour”).
The all-star band was led by Michael Bland (former Prince and Current Soul Asylum Drummer) and Billy Steele (Keyboardist for the Legendary Steele Family and Sounds of Blackness).
This recording captures what American Roots Revue does best, joyfully explore a wide range of popular and profound original material. From Tonia’s plaintive and celebratory take on Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” to Robert’s bone-chillin’ “Everybody’s Chains Came Off” to Claudia’s lovely original “Long, Long Time,” Larry’s own spiritualized “Holy Ground,” and Billy Steele’s beautiful “Blessing Song.” It’s all there on disc, nine song beacons shining like a million-candle powered lighthouse along the north shore.
Watch the April performance of American Roots Revue: Live at the Dakota streaming on PBS-TPT Stage.