Composer and singer Du’Bois A’Keen takes the stage for a sonic journey through jazz standards, timeless R&B ballads, and his own original works. The program will highlight selections from Sacred Songs Suite; originally composed for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s world premiere at New York City Center, alongside brand-new, unreleased compositions performed live for the first time.
Joining A’Keen is his dynamic trio: Nicholas Hetko on piano, Blake Johnston on guitar, and Griffin Fink on bass, bringing rich, vibrant textures to an evening designed to move, inspire, and resonate.
Du’Bois A’Keen is a true renaissance spirit — a dynamic composer, recording artist, and singer-songwriter whose work seamlessly blends soul, classical, and contemporary influences into a sound that feels both timeless and innovative. Known for his evocative storytelling and rich vocal textures, A’Keen crafts music that bridges genres and connects deeply with audiences. His compositions and recordings reveal a rare ability to merge artistry and emotion, earning recognition across the worlds of music, dance, and film. A’Keen has premiered work at NY City Center, Harlem Stage, Urban Arias, Arizona Opera, and more. As a composer and creative associate with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, he recently debuted Sacred Songs with Matthew Rushing. He also served as Associate Director of Music and Programming for the renowned commercial choir Sing Harlem (Mama Foundation for the Arts), during which time he was featured at the Albie Awards and Glamour’s Women of the Year tribute to Mary J. Blige. A’Keen is also the founder of the Harlem Gospel Ensemble. In 2025, A’Keen released his debut album Sacred Songs Suite, which was featured by NPR, The LA Times, and The Washington Post. A two-time graduate of Florida State University (BFA in Dance, MS in Entrepreneurship), Du’Bois lectures at Columbia University and has taught at Ailey/Fordham, Barnard College, and NYU Tisch. His original course, The Work of Art, explores sustainability, social innovation, and the role of artists as entrepreneurs. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Dance Magazine, and OperaWire. In 2025, Du’Bois will make his Apollo Theater debut, headlining the Apollo Music Café as part of its Groundbreaking Series.
Live at St. Paul’s Chapel — or, watch on YouTube.
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