Internationally acclaimed vocalist, composer and educator Bruce A. Henry returns to the Twin Cities on Saturday, August 15, 2026, for The Bruce Henry Experience: “One Voice – Infinite Possibilities” at The Belvedere at Crooners.
With a remarkable vocal range and a musical style that refuses to be confined to a single genre, Henry will take audiences on a journey through jazz, soul, gospel and beyond. The evening will feature Bruce Henry classics, original compositions and spontaneous musical conversation alongside an exceptional ensemble of Twin Cities musicians.
Joining Henry for the evening are:
Sean Turner (Piano), Jay Young(Bass), Kevin Washington (Drums), Daryl Boudreaux (Percussion), Pete Whitman (Saxophone), and Omar Abdulkarim (Trumpet).
For Minnesota audiences, Henry's return is something of a homecoming. Although now based in Chicago, he lived in Minneapolis for more than 30 years and became a distinctive presence in the Twin Cities jazz community. His Minnesota history includes serving on the faculty of McNally Smith College of Music, becoming the first president of the local Jazz Vocal Coalition, performing with Ramsey Lewis at Orchestra Hall, appearing at the Freedom Jazz Festival and presenting memorable tribute concerts throughout the region. Twin Cities Jazz Festival
His connection to Minnesota remains strong. Henry has continued to return for performances at the Dakota, Crooners, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and other Twin Cities stages. In December 2024, he appeared with the JazzMN Orchestra for its holiday concert at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, and in 2025 returned to Crooners for Bruce A. Henry – A True Original. Jazz88 Crooners
Born in Mississippi and raised on Chicago's West Side, Henry began singing in church at an early age. His gospel roots eventually merged with jazz, soul and classical training at the Chicago Conservatory of Music, shaping the genre-blending approach that has become his signature.
Henry has performed on five continents and has appeared with or opened for artists including The Sounds of Blackness, Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole, Chris Botti, Doc Severinsen and Ramsey Lewis. His work has also been heard on international broadcasts and film and television soundtracks. Bruce A. Henry
Beyond the stage, Henry is the founder of Evolution of African American Music (EVAAM), an educational initiative through which he uses concerts, lectures and interactive programs to illuminate the history and influence of African American music.
As Stephen L. Salyer, former president of American Public Radio, said of Henry:
“His range is extraordinary, and his on-stage presentation is at once commanding and full of charm. He is a talent of the first order.”