MeloDious: Music of esperanza spalding

SFJAZZ Hotplate

This Oakland-based ensemble has become one of the Bay Area’s most compelling acts. Grounded in a rich musical heritage that spans gospel, jazz, R&B, and soul, their versatility and musicianship has led them to share stages with several GRAMMY Award–winning artists, further solidifying their presence within the Bay Area’s vibrant musical ecosystem.

Since forming in 2016, the trio has captivated audiences with their dynamic vocal harmonies, inventive arrangements, and unmistakable creative chemistry. The sister duo of Micaiah Dempsey and Memphis Dempsey return to SFJAZZ for a Hotplate performance following their acclaimed 2025 Noise Pop Festival appearance, celebrating the work of bassist, vocalist and composer, esperanza spalding.

Their upcoming tribute to esperanza spalding feels only natural. Joined by instrumentalists Laurel Fink, Jonathan Hererra, and Vincent Maclauchlan, the ensemble prepares to reinterpret the work of an artist who continues to shape their musical language. Like spalding, MeloDious pairs virtuosity with feeling, weaving rhythmic intensity, rich harmonies, and fluid genre-bending into deeply human storytelling.

Please Note: These general admission performances use "Pay-What-You-Wish" ticketing, so you can choose the price that works best for you. By selecting a higher ticket tier, you directly support SFJAZZ’s nonprofit mission to honor jazz through creation, presentation, and education.