the coverups
The Coverups are a Bay Area–born rock band that transforms classic hits into high-voltage live experiences. Fronted by Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong, the group brings deep musical roots and undeniable stage presence to every set. What began as a passion project has grown into a crowd favorite, fueled by a love of timeless songs and the sheer thrill of playing them loud.
*The Coverups will bring down the house with a full headlining set at the After Party.
black violin
Grammy-nominated Black Violin blends classical string virtuosity with the pulse of hip-hop, creating a sound that feels both refined and boldly contemporary. Their recent work reflects a collaborative spirit, layering soaring melodies over richly textured beats and rhythms built to move. Continually evolving, they deliver performances that are unexpected and immersive, inviting audiences into something vibrant, rhythmic, and wholly their own.
emily rapp black
Emily Rapp Black is a New York Times bestselling author whose writing draws from her lived experience with a congenital limb difference and parenting a terminally ill child. Once a poster child for the March of Dimes, she later revisited that chapter of her life with candor and depth in her first memoir. Her work blends insight with tenderness and wit, exploring disability, family, and the stories we inherit and reshape. Through personal reflection and lyrical storytelling, she offers perspectives that are intimate, searching, and hopeful.
Dr. Charles limb
Dr. Charles Limb is a UCSF surgeon and neuroscientist whose research explores the connection between music and the brain. Known for placing jazz musicians inside MRI scanners to study improvisation in real time, his work has expanded our understanding of creativity. A musician himself, he brings scientific insight and live performance together, revealing how music shapes emotion, memory, and our sense of self.
august lee stevens
August Lee Stevens is an Oakland-born singer-songwriter whose music draws from folk, indie rock, and soulful lyricism. Her songs explore identity and belonging with striking clarity and nuance. With an expressive voice and vivid storytelling, she creates performances that feel intimate yet far-reaching. Rooted in the Bay Area’s vibrant music community, August brings a perspective that lingers well beyond the final note.
Oakland school for the arts
Back by popular demand, the students of Oakland School for the Arts return to the Notes & Words stage with talent, heart, and unmistakable joy. From harmonies that fill the room to instrumentals played with focus and feeling, they bring a generosity of spirit to every performance. Their continued collaboration reflects a meaningful community partnership built on creativity, mentorship, and a shared love of music.
Alanis Morissette • Andrew Sean Greer • Anna Quindlen • Anne Lamott • Beck • BJ Novak • C Pam Zhang • CAKE • Chris Martin (Coldplay) • Dan Wilson • Dave Eggers • Dave Grohl • Daveed Diggs • David Brooks • G Love & Special Sauce • George Saunders • Helen Hunt • James McBride • Jim Gaffigan • Kelly Corrigan • Margaret Atwood • Mary Roach • Matt Nathanson • Michael Lewis • Nicholas Kristof • Ryan Tedder • Tayari Jones • The Curtis Family C-notes • The Head and the Heart • Viet Thanh Nguyen • Ziggy Marley
Alanis Morissette • Andrew Sean Greer • Anna Quindlen • Anne Lamott • Beck • BJ Novak • C Pam Zhang • CAKE • Chris Martin (Coldplay) • Dan Wilson • Dave Eggers • Dave Grohl • Daveed Diggs • David Brooks • G Love & Special Sauce • George Saunders • Helen Hunt • James McBride • Jim Gaffigan • Kelly Corrigan • Margaret Atwood • Mary Roach • Matt Nathanson • Michael Lewis • Nicholas Kristof • Ryan Tedder • Tayari Jones • The Curtis Family C-notes • The Head and the Heart • Viet Thanh Nguyen • Ziggy Marley
