Phenomenal
by Tom on 2/24/19SouthWest Florida Event Center - Bonita SpringsRating: 5 out of 5“You’re taking us to a UKULELE concert?” That was the reaction of my wife in friends when I bought Jake tickets. Now, they cannot wait for the next one.

No more results on this page
Jake Shimabukuro on Tour
In a way, it’s Hawaiian ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro’s live performances that first brought him international attention — in 2006, Shimabukuro’s success skyrocketed after a video of him playing The Beatles’ “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” became one of YouTube’s first massively viral videos. Ever since, he’s shared his joy of music with audiences all over the world, playing songs that range from jazz and classical to rock and bluegrass. Before he blew up, Shimabukuro was signed to a label in Japan and toured the country extensively. After starting his own label and playing more U.S. shows, he’s appeared on a number of talk shows with hosts like Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Kimmel and Carson Daly. Now, Shimabukuro tours the world frequently, often leading a versatile string trio that includes guitar and bass, though he’s also been known to groove in a quartet with drums, keys and bass. Jake Shimabukuro’s current tour takes him across the U.S. as he continues to find new ways to interact with the styles that have made him the musician he is today.
Jake Shimabukuro in Concert
Jake Shimabukuro is a Hawaiian-born, fifth-generation Japanese American ukulele player who has become known as a virtuoso musician that can jam in almost any style. Born in 1976 in Honolulu, Shimabukuro received a ukulele from his mother, a musician herself, at age four. He studied with her for years, eventually entering the Roy Sakuma Studio and taking lessons from Tami Akiyami. In the 1990s, Shimabukuro would become a member of the trio Pure Heart alongside percussionist Lopaka Colón and guitarist and singer Jon Yamasato. The group’s first album, 1999’s Pure Heart, won four Na Hoku Hanohano awards — basically the Hawaiian Grammys — including Contemporary Album of the Year, Most Promising Artist, Album of the Year and Favorite Entertainment of the Year.
Shimabukuro signed with Epic Records International, a division of Sony Music Japan, in 2002. He toured in Japan and released a number of Japan-only albums. Wanting to share his music with the U.S. as well, Shimabukuro founded Hitchhike Records and soon released 2005’s Dragon, which charted at No. 5 on Billboard’s Top World Music Albums. The following year, after his YouTube success, he released Gently Weeps, which peaked at No. 2 on the Top World Music Albums. Shimabukuro has gone on to release numerous high-charting albums.
Set One
Set Two
Encore
“You’re taking us to a UKULELE concert?” That was the reaction of my wife in friends when I bought Jake tickets. Now, they cannot wait for the next one.
Jake is a masterful musician and a extraordinary performer. He was able to envelope his audience into distinct environments and moods with each song--all with an Uke! His backing musicians enhaunced the musical flavour without getting in the way. He truely exhibited a joy of playing his songs for the audience, making the evening surprisingly wonderful. Highly recommend that you go see Jake Shimabuburo at your earliest opportunity. It will expand your apprecition of musicial entertainment.
I brought my husband and son. Jake Shimabukuro brought guitarist Dave Preston and bassist Nolan Vern. Absolutely great concert! Over-the-top musicianship and infectious enthusiasm for totally being in the moment. We loved it!
We enjoyed seeing Jake’s solo show a couple years ago, but the addition of two sidemen has made the show even better. Guitarist Dave Preston & bassist Nolan Verner give the performance more depth. Their sound in the Ludlow Garage was perfect-kudos to the sound engineer. Thanks also for ‘While my guitar gently weeps,’ ‘Bohemian Rhapsody ‘ & the Bill Withers covet!
This concert was originally scheduled for the Lyric Theater—and I was looking forward to going to the Lyric, but was moved to Workplay. It all turned out great because the setting was intimate and comfortable. The concert was remarkable. It is almost unbelievable that anyone can play a ukulele like that! Fun to listen to and watch!
Great concert and great venue for this ukele artist. Bohemian Rhapsody Encore was phenomenal!
I thought the guitar , bass, and ukulele were technically superb. The show consisted of covers and some original songs. I think the vibe I got was playful and light hearted but lacked soul. The ukulele has such a rich tradition and Hawaii is such a soulful place. I think there is a resources there to develop a moving performance. I want to be moved to smile, cry, dance, reflect, stand up, stomp my feet, ... I did like the performance of blue flowers falling from the ceiling. Overall the performance was likeable.
Incredible perfomer and high energy show. Life changing to see him play
A true virtuoso on the ukelele. Jake can bring music and sounds out of a ukelele that noone else can -- truly amazing. Also he has great stage presence and is a very capable song writer. I would see him again any day!
A true ukelele virtuoso and fabulous performer. He makes the ukelele sing! This is the third time I've seen him and he never disappoints. Also has a great personality. I will always go to see him if he's in town.
Jake's ukulele skills are without parallel. He is the BEST! We'd seen him ten years ago and his musical talent has surely grown over the years. He was great then and he is awesome now! His new CD, THE GREATEST DAY, will be released on 8/31/18. The songs he performed from that CD were enough to make me pre-order a copy. Two additions to his band, bass and rhythm guitars, enhance the music and add to the show. Bottom line - if you haven't seen Jake perform live, what are you waiting for? A note regarding the venue - The Queen in Wilmington is reminiscent of days gone by. It is under new ownership and doing a nice job to host live music in an intimate setting. Please support this venue and others like that are trying their best to keep the music alive!
It was my second time seeing Jake Shimabukuro performing and he was fantastic both times. He’s energetic, engaging, and hugely talented.
Jake continues to amaze me. His music is so great! I totally enjoy his honesty and dedication to his profession. He truly makes his ukulele a true pleasure to listen to. Mahalo Jake for your music!
As a ukulele player, who plays but will never be as serious as Jake. He sells his music by his face, body, laughter and fantastic music. A unique experience. WOW !!
I have seen Jake perform before and there is no equal. His musical ability is unquestionable yet, his personality always comes through as someone who has found his passion and wishes to share it with anyone with ears. My only negative about the venue (the rationale for four starts) was the rolling bright lights into the audience which were very distracting. This isn't a hard rock band! Light the stage only. Rest of the venue was great!
Jake was amazing as was his band. He is so musical that my eyes blurred watching him play.
For the life of me, I can’t figure out why he doesn’t sell out every venue every time he plays. He is absolutely amazing! This is the second show I’ve seen him play, and I think it is even better than the first time a couple years ago. The show features himself, a bassist, and a guitar player, and they cover a wide range of songs along with a few originals. His ukulele ability is world class, and he lets you see the instrument in a whole new light. The show is just the right length, with a 20 minute intermission in the middle, and he gives his “all” during the show. He has a great attitude, very friendly, and speaks directly to the audience. He’s one of the few artists that really looks like he’s having fun when he’s playing. I highly recommend the show!
A true masterpiece of a performance...from the first song to the last...Jake is a true virtuoso on the Ukulele..His skills and music acumen are top notch....I took my 13 year old daughter...and she loved it too...in the days of over produced music...and lip syncing...it is a pleasure to see a true musician...someone who can play with the highest of skills...it is a treasure to behold....brought a tear to my eye when he stroked those strings....this concert will resonate in my mind and soul for years to come....I recently lost a close friend and this concert was a much needed distraction....what a pleasure..what a treat....peace and love to Jake always...I can't wait to buy his next album in August...keep up the great work..keep growing...keep entertaining...this world is a much better place with artists like Jake that can bring a smile and a tear to your eye with their heartfelt music...peace and love to all music lovers out there....stay strong..stay focused and stay the course.....PrincePaul
Jake was spectacular He has boundless energy and incredible talent
We knew going in that this would be a fun night but the concert far exceeded our expectations. Jake is very energetic and the sounds he creates on his Uke are truly wonderful. We can’t wait to see him again. You have to see him perform!