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José James with Lizz Wright: Marvin Gaye’s I Want You

Feb 6, 2026
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Overview

José James presents the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s I Want You with special guest Lizz Wright

A soulful tribute, decades of inspiration

Marvin Gaye’s I Want You shaped the music of a generation, blending jazz, funk, R&B, soul and disco in a way that pushed boundaries and continues to inspire artists today. Internationally renowned José James — “one of the suavest vocal improvisers on the scene” (Pitchfork) — joins forces with fellow singer Lizz Wright to reimagine the music of this provocative album in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Experience this soulful homage to one of R&B’s most influential recordings.

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Enhance your concert experience.

Preconcert Dining

Explore Symphony Center’s on-site dining options for a seamless preconcert experience. Preorder a Sound Bites meal to enjoy in the Rotunda before the concert — or make a reservation to dine at the Thomas Club, offering a prix fixe menu featuring traditional American fare and a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. View menus and learn more »


CSO African American Network Reception

The CSO African American Network will host a postconcert event. Tickets required for entry. Learn more about the event at CSO AAN »

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Sponsors & Partners

Funding for educational programs during the 2025/26 Season of SCP Jazz has been generously provided by Dan J. Epstein, Judith Guitelman and the Dan J. Epstein Family Foundation.


Discover more on Experience CSO
Genre-spanning musician, composer, and bandleader José James declares that Marvin Gaye’s 1976 disc "I Want You" has long been a personal inspiration: “It’s my all-time favorite album across all genres."
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The late ’70s offers a fount of inspiration for José James. “I stay fascinated by that moment in time, so much within the culture — that period before the internet, before Spotify, when you had to learn things through word of mouth."
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Germán Cornejo, artistic director of Tango After Dark, emphasizes that "tango isn’t about form — it’s about content. It's about emotion, memory and contradiction."
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