Toronzo Cannon

Thu May 21 at 8:00pm

Evanston, IL

Event Info

I want my songs to be heard and experienced, not just listened to, says clich-defying, internationally beloved Chicago bluesman Toronzo Cannon. With his richly detailed, truth-telling original songs, blistering, inventive guitar work and impassioned vocals, Cannon is on the cutting edge of todays contemporary blues scene and is known as one of the genres most creative artists. His sound is inspired by his heroes, including Hound Dog Taylor, Muddy Waters, Elmore James, Albert King, Son Seals and Jimi Hendrix. On his third Alligator Records album, Shut Up And Play!, Cannon blazes his own path with 11 emotionally-charged originals. From serious to humorous, his imaginative songs are fueled by his powerful, cathartic guitar solos and his soulfully authoritative voice.Shut Up And Play!, co-produced by Cannon and Alligator president Bruce Iglauer, finds Cannon, a former Chicago Transit Authority bus driver, delivering timeless stories of common experiences, often unfolding in uncommon ways. His passionate and focused guitar playing sets his lyrics ablaze. From the first radio single, the unassailable I Hate Love, to the gospel-inspired, autobiographical Had To Go Through It To Get To It, to the slow-burning, reflective Guilty, to the deeply personal Message To My Daughter, Shut Up And Play! tackles the gamut of human emotions. Song subjects range from the heartbreak of lost love, to the humor of daily life, to the pain of feeling invisible in todays society, all as seen through Cannons wide-open eyes.

Thu - May 21, 2026 • 8:00 PMTickets

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Venue

1245 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL

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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.