Ruthie Foster

Thu Mar 5 at 7:30pm

Evanston, IL

Event Info

Ruthie Fosters musical journey is as eclectic and vibrant as her soulful voice. Born into a family steeped in gospel tradition, Ruthies earliest influences were the voices of her mother, grandmother, and the gospel singers she grew up listening to artists like the Gospel Keynotes and the Blind Boys of Alabama. However, her path to becoming a solo artist wasnt a straightforward one. Despite a deep love for music, Ruthie initially shied away from the spotlight, preferring to play guitar, piano, and write songs for others. Growing up in the rich musical tapestry of Gause, Texas, Ruthie found herself drawn to the diverse sounds and arrangements of local gospel choirs and musicians. Despite her reluctance to take center stage, Ruthies talent was undeniable, and her mother encouraged her to step up and sing out. She stood out as a young black girl with a guitar in a choir scene dominated by pianos, but with her grandmothers vocal coaching and encouragement from her mother and the church community, she recognized her own power as a songwriter, a musician, and as a captivating singer. After studying music at a community college in Waco, Ruthie decided to take a break from music and enlist in the Navy. The stage drew her once more, and she was selected to sing for the Navy band Pride, where she honed her skills as a vocalist and performer. A development deal with Atlantic Records led her to New York City, where she immersed herself in the songwriting community and learned the craft of writing songs that spoke to the soul. However, Ruthies journey took a turn when her mother fell ill, prompting her to step back from music and return to Texas once again. It was a period of introspection, caregiving, and deep bonding with her mother, and upon her return to writing and performing, it was to shape her voice as a singer-songwriter and storyteller. Drawing on her experiences and her musical roots, she began to craft blues, folk, and gospel-tinged songs that spoke to the universal themes of love, loss, and resilience. Turning down a major record deal in pursuit of authenticity, she has stayed true to herself and her vision as an artist, signing with independent label Blue Corn Music to release Runaway Soul in 2002, followed by The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster in 2007, The Truth According to Ruthie Foster in 2009, Let It Burn in 2012, Promise of a Brand New Day in 2014, Joy Comes Back in 2017, and Healing Time in 2022. She has also released three live albums, Stages in 2004, Live At Antones in 2011, and 2020s Live at the Paramount. Now, with five Grammy nominations to her name, Ruthie Foster has achieved a long-awaited milestone: her very first Grammy win. Her latest album, Mileage, released on the legendary Sun Records, won Best Contemporary Blues Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards a triumph not only for Foster, but also a historic first-ever Grammy win for Sun Records. The recognition underscores the power of Fosters artistry and the enduring legacy of a label that continues to champion timeless voices. With soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and unwavering commitment to her craft, Foster continues to carve out a path that is uniquely her own inspiring audiences and fellow musicians alike.

Thu - March 5, 2026 • 7:30 PMTickets

Additional dates

About Ruthie Foster

Ruthie Foster is an American singer/songwriter of blues and folk music. She is from Gause, Texas and from a family of gospel singers. She studied music at McLennan Community College and then worked in the US Navy, where she started performing. Her debut was released in 1997 and she has performed in North America, Europe and Australia. She has often been compared to Ella Fitzgerald and Aretha Franklin. Read more on Last.fm

Venue

1245 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL

Lineup

Ruthie Foster

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns SPACE Evanston?: SPACE in Evanston is owned by Jake Samuels and Dave Koslowski, who opened the venue in 2008. Together, they envisioned SPACE as a premier live music destination in the Chicagoland area, focusing on creating an intimate listening environment for artists and fans alike. The ownership team is committed to delivering high-quality live performances, and their passion for music and community engagement has positioned SPACE as one of the top independent music venues in the Midwest. Over the years, SPACE has hosted a diverse range of local and national acts, contributing to Evanston's vibrant cultural scene.
Does SPACE in Evanston serve food?: Yes, SPACE in Evanston serves food. The venue partners with Union Pizzeria, located adjacent to the performance space, to provide a delicious menu for concertgoers. Guests can enjoy a variety of artisan pizzas, small plates, salads, and other Italian-inspired dishes before or during shows. Food and beverage service is available in both the lounge and the main concert area, offering a full bar with craft cocktails, local beers, and a curated wine list. Dining at SPACE enhances the overall experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a great night out with fantastic music and flavorful cuisine.
Where to park for SPACE in Evanston?: Parking for SPACE in Evanston is convenient and accessible. Guests can utilize the City of Evanston's public parking garage located at 525 Church Street, which is just a short walk from the venue. Street parking is also available on surrounding roads, though it may be limited during peak hours. Additionally, there are several paid parking lots in the vicinity. It's recommended to arrive early, especially for sold-out events, to secure the best parking spots. Some areas may require payment via meters or mobile apps, so be sure to check signage for restrictions and rates. SPACE's central location ensures easy access via public transit as well.
What is Evanston, IL famous for?: Evanston, IL is famous for being the home of Northwestern University, a prestigious Big Ten institution known for its academic excellence and beautiful lakeside campus. The city is also recognized for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary options, and historic architecture. Evanston played a key role in the temperance movement, earning the nickname “Heavenston” for its early prohibition of alcohol. Today, it boasts a lively downtown, picturesque beaches along Lake Michigan, and a strong sense of community. Its proximity to Chicago makes Evanston a desirable place to live, work, and visit, drawing both students and tourists to its cultural attractions.
Is SPACE in Evanston standing room only?: SPACE in Evanston offers both seated and standing room options, depending on the concert or event. Many shows are set up with reserved table seating and general admission standing room, allowing guests to choose their preferred concert experience. Some performances are fully seated, while others are standing room only, particularly for high-energy or sold-out acts. It's important to check the event details when purchasing tickets to confirm the setup for your chosen show. Regardless of the arrangement, SPACE is designed to provide excellent sightlines and superior acoustics throughout the venue, ensuring an intimate and memorable live music experience for all attendees.