FESTIVAL APPEARANCES
Friday: 7:00 PM on the HOPE Center for the Arts.
See the full schedule

Celebrating Joe Cocker

With Mitch Chakour and members of Joe Cocker's touring band

Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime musical celebration as members of Joe Cocker’s legendary touring band reunite to honor the voice that electrified a generation. Mitch Chakour, Cocker’s longtime musical director and powerhouse pianist, leads this all-star lineup through a soul-stirring tribute at the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival. Joining him are fellow Cocker alumni Cliff Goodwin (guitarist for Robert Palmer), Deric Dyer (saxophonist for both Cocker and Tina Turner), and Marty Richards (drummer with the J. Geils Band, Joe Perry Project, and Gary Burton), along with bassist Wolf Ginandes** (Mohegan Sun Allstars, Mad Dogs Tour). These world-class musicians bring decades of groove, grit, and emotional fire to the stage—channeling the spirit and sound of one of rock and soul’s most iconic performers.

From “With a Little Help from My Friends” to “You Are So Beautiful,” this electrifying set will deliver the raw passion, blues-drenched vocals, and high-octane musicianship that defined Joe Cocker’s career. Whether you were lucky enough to see him live or are discovering his magic for the first time, this tribute promises a thrilling journey through the heart of Cocker’s musical legacy—anchored by the very bandmates who helped shape it. Don’t miss this unforgettable moment of musical history in downtown Springfield.

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New Location!

The Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival takes place on July 10 - 11th, 2026 at Court Square.

About Us

This festival is produced by Blues To Green, a nonprofit organization that harnesses music and the arts to celebrate community and culture, build shared purpose, and catalyze social and environmental change.
Copyright © 2026 Blues To Green Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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