Super Bowl week in the Bay Area just got a serious dose of soul, funk, and community spirit. Elevate Oakland, the nonprofit co-founded by Oakland icon Sheila E., is teaming up with NFL Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott for a special night of music and celebration on February 6 at the historic Guild Theatre.
Headlining the evening is Sheila E. herself, a true Bay Area legend whose career has spanned decades and genres. Supporting the headliner is Oakland Rising, an emerging artist collective spotlighting the next generation of East Bay talent.
The event also marks a meaningful full-circle moment for the venue. “Two years ago Ronnie Lott, Sheila E., and her non-profit Elevate Oakland helped us launch Follow the Music at the Guild Theatre,” said Phil Green, Executive Director of Follow the Music. “So this is a full circle moment.”
For Sheila E., the mission goes beyond the stage. “The Bay Area has an unrivaled cultural legacy,” she said. “It’s critical that we support the generation carrying that legacy forward.” That ethos is embodied by Oakland Rising, whose artists will take the spotlight alongside one of the region’s most celebrated musicians.
Ronnie Lott summed it up best when speaking about the rising performers: “These rookies will rock you! Guaranteed!!!”
With Super Bowl energy in the air and Bay Area music at the center, this Guild Theatre event is shaping up to be one of Super Bowl week’s most meaningful nights.
