The Joe Johnson Band and jazz vocalist Kevin Whalum, at right, will team up Sunday, Oct. 20, for the next show in the Songbook series, which pays tribute to African and African-American music and musicians. Songbook: George Duke will begin at 6 p.m. at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 E. M.L. King Blvd. Whalum has worked with Duke and has cited the pioneering keyboardist/composer/singer/producer as a member of his "dream band." Duke has described Whalum's voice as "butter" for its smooth, sweet tones. Tickets are $25 and available at the Bessie. For more information, call 423-266-8658 or visit www.bessiesmithcc.org.
IF YOU GO* What: Songbook: George Duke with The Joe Johnson Band and Kevin Whalum* When: 6 p.m.Sunday, Oct. 20* Where: Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 E. M.L. King Blvd.* Admission: $25* Phone: 423-266-8658* Website: www.bessiesmithcc.org