Sounds of Blackness is proud to join legendary hitmakers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis for “Homecoming: A Celebration of the Minneapolis Sound” on Saturday, August 29 at 7:00 PM at the Minnesota State Fair Grandstand!

This homecoming is especially meaningful for Sounds of Blackness. Jam & Lewis have been an important part of our musical journey, serving as producers, collaborators and champions of the group during some of the most defining years of our career. Together with Sounds of Blackness Music Director Gary Hines, they helped create music that would carry the Minneapolis Sound around the world.

Their work with Sounds of Blackness includes the timeless anthem “Optimistic,” which Jam & Lewis co-wrote and produced, as well as favorites including “I’m Going All the Way” and other recordings that helped define the group’s groundbreaking blend of gospel, R&B, soul and African-American musical traditions. “Optimistic” became a major R&B hit and remains one of Sounds of Blackness’ signature songs. (Shazam)

The connection runs even deeper. Jimmy Jam has described Sounds of Blackness as the musical foundation for Jam & Lewis, and the group became one of the first acts signed to their Perspective Records label. Jam has also called “Optimistic” their favorite song they have ever been involved with—a powerful testament to the musical bond and history we share. (Grammy)

Now, more than three decades after that historic collaboration began, we’re excited to come together again at home in Minnesota to celebrate the music, the legacy and the unmistakable Minneapolis Sound.

Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis Homecoming: A Celebration of the Minneapolis Sound
Saturday, August 29, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Minnesota State Fair Grandstand (Minnesota State Fair) - Click here for tickets.

We can’t wait to celebrate this special night with our hometown!