"It was the final night of DJ Quik's December residency at Yoshi's, and he felt like stretching out. Who were coming back were rap fans, especially to see the Bay Area's own homegrown talent. Last year alone, Vallejo legend Mac Mall sold out a show. Oakland's Richie Rich sold out two. Too Short sold out six. It's transformed not only box office revenues but the vibe inside the club, Zuazua says, with its traditional supper-club-style semicircle seating at tables and booths,"
"It's transformed not only box office revenues but the vibe inside the club, Zuazua says, with its traditional supper-club-style semicircle seating at tables and booths, and a menu featuring sushi and cocktails. Currently, Yoshi's has hip-hop shows lined up with Mistah FAB (Jan. 22), the GZA (Feb. 8), and Twista (April 23). It was a far cry from a straight-ahead jazz show at Yoshi's, historically known for hosting golden-era legends like Pharoah Sanders, Roy Haynes, Charlie Haden or the esteemed McCoy Tyner,"
Yoshi's in Oakland has shifted from primarily presenting straight-ahead jazz to booking more hip-hop and rap acts, often appearing with live bands. The venue's box-office revenues and interior vibe have changed, while its supper-club-style semicircular seating and sushi-and-cocktails menu remain. Recent sellouts by Bay Area artists such as Mac Mall, Richie Rich and Too Short reflect strong local demand. Upcoming hip-hop bookings include Mistah FAB, the GZA and Twista. The musical "soundscape" has evolved, but intensity, spontaneity and musical beauty persist, especially when artists perform with a live band. The 2013 opening of the SFJAZZ Center affected jazz bookings.
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