Meshell Ndegeocello – Dakota – Minneapolis MN – February 9th 2026

The Dakota presents Meshell Ndegeocello

Review and photos by Aiden Cooper

Meshell Ndegeocello at the Dakota is a match made in heaven. From the intimate setting to the stellar sound system, the Dakota was a perfect fit for an artist with such a storied career in music. Throughout her career, Meshell has been known as someone who doesn’t settle for any one sound, pushing the status quo with restless experimentation. Whenever she plays, the audience is promised a musical experience that unfolds like a journey, and tonight was no different.

Before the doors opened, the crowd had already gathered outside the Dakota. Whispers and laughter echoed through the line of people from different walks of life, each shaped by completely different circumstances, pressed together to stay out of the cold Minnesota night.

The night began with drummer Abe Rounds playing a three-song set, singing while he rotated between multiple percussion instruments. Layering minimal keyboard and percussive rhythms beneath his vocals, he was able to emphasize the messaging of his material. His often upbeat sociopolitical commentary tracks established the tone for the evening, easing the audience into a dense experience curated by Meshell Ndegeocello.

Meshell opened the set with weight and intention, reading from James Baldwin while offering thought-provoking social commentary, which she continued to do throughout the night. Immediately, it was clear that she wanted to make this an experience rather than a conventional performance. Standout moments inquired about the systemic powers put into place within the country. Diving deeper into societal roles and what it would mean if they were reversed in connection to white privilege.

The band she pieced together consisted of top-tier musicians, which was needed for the psychedelic funk jam sessions that were woven in throughout the night, making it nearly impossible not to bop your head. Vocalist Justin Hicks led the charge when Meshell moved away from the mic, his soulful tone fitting the music flawlessly and serving as a standout piece of the night. Meshell remained the glue, guiding the pacing within the music over the course of the performance. When the set was all said and done, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, further cementing this night as the experience it was.