A Soulful Evening in the Heart of the Central West End

Anita Jackson and a jazz ensemble performing for a seated audience at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

Step inside our intimate gallery for an extraordinary journey into the golden era of soul music. This WCHOF Music Series performance opens the 2027 season with a passionate tribute to Curtis Mayfield, performed by WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens. Owens brings magnetic presence and vintage grooves to the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries. Featuring legendary anthems such as "People Get Ready" and "Move On Up," the concert celebrates hope and change at our unique Saint Louis museum. This event transforms the sophisticated space into a sanctuary of sound, where strategic genius meets the architectural grandeur of timeless melodies.

Deepen Your Experience

Brian Owens is a soul singer, songwriter, and community builder based in Ferguson, Missouri. A U.S. Air Force veteran raised on gospel, he carries the tradition of Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, and Curtis Mayfield into songs about faith, family, and the city he calls home. His recording of “A Change Is Gonna Come” with his father, Thomas Owens, has drawn more than 150 million views, and his albums include Soul of Ferguson, Soul of Cash, and Duets with Dad (2025).

To learn more, explore the official websites of WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens and Contemporary Artist-in-Residence Malena Smith. We also invite you to view our full WCHOF Music Series season lineup or become a member to enjoy exclusive discounts on upcoming performances and museum events.

Event Details

Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

  • Full Evening Schedule:
    • 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
    • 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with Brian Owens
    • 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance
  • Tickets: $25 general admission. Discounted admission is $20 for WCHOF members, seniors age 60 or older, active or retired U.S. military, and currently enrolled students. If you already have a 2027 Music Series season pass, select SEASON PASS – $0 for each guest it covers. Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.

Accessibility

The World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries is fully ADA accessible.

Parking Information

  • Metered street parking available along Maryland Avenue and neighboring streets. Meters are enforced Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM with a 2-hour limit.
  • Argyle Garage: Located at 225 N Euclid Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63108 (adjacent to the Schlafly Branch of the Saint Louis Public Library). Open 24 hours.
  • Park Plaza Parking Garage: Located at 46 Maryland Plaza, Saint Louis, MO 63108. Open 24 hours.
  • 435 N. Euclid Lot: A surface lot located at 435 N Euclid Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63108.
  • Nine North Parking Garage: Located at 9N S Euclid Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63108.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.