IPM Engagement Events

Illinois Soul is dedicated to spotlighting homegrown talent, and Erech Bruce embodies that mission perfectly. Hailing from Peoria, Erech delivers soulful, hard-hitting blues with powerful vocals and undeniable authenticity. Erech will kick off the Spring 2026 Uncorked series on Feb. 5, setting the tone with music rooted in lived expierience.

On Feb. 12, Illinois Soul and the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts welcome acclaimed saxophonist Chris Greene, an artist respected across genres and generations. His résumé includes performances with Common, The Temptations, and Midnight Sun. His Uncorked set blends jazz, soul, and funk with precision and purpose.

On Feb. 19, Champaign-Urbana’s favorite R&B band Ther’Up.Y takes over Stage 5, bringing the funk, the classics, and of course the fun.

Join us on Feb. 26, with the baddest neo-soul band in the land — Zo! & Tall Black Guy — joined by Deborah Bond for an electrifying performance from this nationally acclaimed band demonstrating all the things a live performance should be.