Take 6

Ten-time Grammy winning a cappella masters Take 6 return to SFJAZZ for four nights celebrating over 45 years of what PopMatters calls "luminous extended harmonies that light up a song with a combination of jazz stratosphere and gospel earth." This is part of SFJAZZ's Gospel Greats series, featuring the most acclaimed vocal group in the world as they showcase material from their recent #1 Billboard Jazz chart album Iconic.

The Art of Vocal Mastery

Take 6's sophisticated approach blends jazz harmonies with gospel spirituality through intricate vocal arrangements that require no instruments — just six voices creating magic. Founding members Claude McKnight and Mark Kibble anchor a lineup that includes Alvin Chea (bass), Khristian Dentley (baritone), Joey Kibble (tenor), and David Thomas (vocals), performing arrangements that transform everything from Eric Clapton's "Change the World" to Stevie Wonder's "Overjoyed" into showcases for their trademark precision.

Beyond the Music

Reviews consistently highlight Take 6's engaging stage presence and audience interaction. At recent performances, they've encouraged crowd participation through clapping, call-and-response moments, and even dance along to their funkier arrangements. London Jazz News noted how "these Southern Gentlemen did their very best to break down the 'stiffness' in the room," while Backstage Bay Area described performances where "the crowd was not on the outside looking in — it was its own part of the Take 6 experience."

The Repertoire

Expect a journey through jazz standards, gospel classics, and contemporary arrangements. Recent setlists have included their Grammy-winning original "Spread Love," arrangements of Beatles hits like "Got to Get You Into My Life," and stirring renditions of traditional spirituals like "Wade in the Water." The group seamlessly moves between straight-ahead jazz, R&B, and gospel, often incorporating beatboxing and vocal percussion that creates the illusion of full instrumentation.

With collaborations spanning Ray Charles to Jacob Collier, performances for multiple presidents, and contributions to iconic soundtracks, Take 6 brings decades of musical excellence to SFJAZZ's intimate Miner Auditorium setting — where their "blazing vocal acrobatics" and spiritual joy can truly shine.