Higher Ground, a Tribute to the Superstars of Soul, featuring the best of Stevie Wonder as well as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and many more, features 20 of Portland’s most accomplished musicians, including special guest star Julia Gagnon from American Idol. The musicians hail from stellar Maine bands and collectives such as BOBA FUNK, DJ vs Rapper, Papa Tim and the Whisky Throttle Band, Wake Up Mama, Ragtime Rebellion, Jason Spooner Band, Bad Combo, El Malo, Jumpin’ Willy’s, Biddo Honeys, and the XYZ Factor.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit Sweetser, a behavioral health nonprofit that provides evidence-based treatment, support and hope through a statewide network of community-based mental health, recovery, and educational services for children and their families across the state.

This show is produced by Marc Kaplan, whose previous productions included sold-out tributes to Tom Petty, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, The Allman Brothers Band, and Chicago.