One night, one stage, no single genre.

Jazz, rock, funk and world music share a stage for one night at the Alex Theatre, the way KPFK has carried them on one frequency since 1959.

The lineup

Just added: Jackson Browne, Danny Carey · Stanley Clarke · Sheila E. · Michelle Coltrane · Petra Haden · John Densmore · Robby Krieger · Rudy Sarzo · Marlonius · Salar Nader featuring the Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center Youth Orchestra. Poncho Sanchez's pianist Andy Langham and drummer Clayton Cameron. Bringing the evening to a spectacular close, our complete ensemble honors the pioneer of jazz-fusion bass with a rousing rendition of 'School Days" celebrating its 50^th Anniversary this year. 

Why this night

The evening also marks 50 years of School Days, the album that changed what the bass guitar could do, proving the instrument could step out of the rhythm section and lead.

A lineup this varied doesn't assemble by accident, and it doesn't assemble for just anyone. These artists are here because a listener-supported station in Los Angeles has spent six decades playing music that commercial radio wouldn't touch.

VIP Reception, 5:30 PM

Before the doors open to the house, a smaller crowd is already inside.

The Alex's multi-level reception spaces, indoors and out, open an hour early for VIP guests. Light refreshments, a drink ticket, and a cash bar. The real draw is in the room: exclusive access to the artists' sound check, the part of the night nobody else gets to see, when ten musicians who don't usually share a stage figure out how they're going to.

Then you take your seat before the room fills.

Limited availability. Available as an add-on at checkout.

Where the money goes

KPFK 90.7 FM has broadcast across Southern California since 1959, the second station Pacifica ever signed on, funded by its listeners. Proceeds from this concert keep the signal on the air: transmitter operations at Mount Wilson, local production of original shows, and the archive. This is a 501(c)(3) non-profit fundraiser.