Show begins – 8:30pm
Show ends – 10:30pm
Tickets from £15 | Complimentary for Patrons
Order from the Jazz Menu directly to your table in the Sunbeam Theatre. We recommend coming in early to enjoy a bite and a drink before the music starts.
Born in West Africa and raised by a strong woman Mwenso’s early life was steeped in rich cultural traditions and deep-rooted values. As a teenager in London, he faced profound personal challenges following his mother’s deportation. During this time, he found solace and purpose in Black music—drawing inspiration and guidance from legendary artists such as James Brown, who became both mentor and muse.
In his late twenties, Mwenso was invited to New York City by the renowned jazz icon Wynton Marsalis to lead the late-night sessions at Dizzy’s Club and curate programs for Jazz at Lincoln Center. His arrival made a lasting impact on the city’s music and arts scene, inspiring new connections and creative communities.
Through his band, Mwenso and The Shakes, Mwenso has built a nationwide movement centered on love, expression, and the transformative power of Black music. Today, under the umbrella of Electric Root—the organization he co-founded with Jono Gasparro—he continues to spread messages of uplift, healing, and empowerment across a divided nation.
Mwenso and The Shakes are a vibrant collective of global artists who merge electrifying performance with profound artistry. Drawing from the rich lineage of Jazz, Funk, and R&B- and deeply influenced by musical giants such as Fela Kuti, Earth, Wind & Fire, and James Brown- the group delivers a show that the New York Times calls “intense, prowling, and ebullient.”
Hailing from Sierra Leone, London, South Africa, and Trinidad, the members of The Shakes now call Harlem their home- continuing to create music that celebrates Black culture, unity, and the boundless power of the human spirit.
Line Up
Michael Mwenso – Band leader/vocals
Vuyo Sotashe – vocals
Niya Lovell – dancer
Miles Wilkins – keys/piano
Alan Weekes – guitar
Nolan Nwachukwu – bass
Ahmad Johnson – drums
Ruben Fox – tenor saxophone
Mark Kavuma – trumpet
Rashaan Salaam – trombone
Misha Fox – trombone
