Raphael Saadiq could be considered a musical genius.
Throughout his career, he has been praised by NPR, sold out multiple dates at New York City’s Apollo Theater, and been recognized by the Grammys.
Saadiq has had an eventful 2025. In February, he received the Album of the Year Grammy award for his contribution to Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” and performed at the NBA All-Star game in San Francisco. Before tip-off, he performed a tribute to the Bay Area that included music from numerous Bay Area icons, including Steve Miller Band, MC Hammer, Too Short, Tower of Power and Metallica. Saadiq also co-wrote the track “I Lied to You” for Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” which premiered in April and has since earned widespread critical acclaim and global box office success as the highest-grossing film of 2025.
Fans will explore Saddiq’s 30-plus year career during his “No Bandwidth Tour,” a one-person show that offers a powerful blend of storytelling and emotionally evocative experiences.
Attendees will experience a glimpse into the life of the multi-talented artist, producer, instrumentalist, composer, and songwriter with new stories and performances celebrating his catalog from the early ’90s to today.
“You’re going to hear me in a way you’ve never heard me,” Saddiq said via Zoom. “The show will be filled with stories and good times; people laughing and people talking.”
Saadiq is following in Jack White’s footsteps and not allowing cellphones in the venue. He prefers the audience pay attention and stay present.
“It makes me pay attention more to the people in the audience,” said Saadiq, who benefits, too.
Some have said that Saadiq has redefined soul and R&B. He feels blessed for other reasons.
“I don’t really think about it that way,” he said.
“I’m just going to think about I’ve been very fortunate to be able to listen to really great musicians and historians and people who really carved the way. People are still here now, making music. Maybe people don’t know them.
“I’m aware of my surroundings.”
Saadiq himself has been present at concerts, especially his first one, the O’Jays with a full orchestra.
“I’ll never forget it,” he said. “It was so inspiring for many reasons. All these people were driving up to the show and that was really the thing that kicked it off for me.
“I couldn’t believe that all those people were coming to see these three guys. I could see all the brake lights. When I’m at my shows and I see brake lights, it reminds me of the O’Jays.”
As for his one-man show, it’s cathartic for him.
“My tour is so interesting and fun and such a mix of emotions,” he said.
“When I’m in it, I think I am having fun. I’m so wrapped up in what’s happening, I’m having the same experience that the audience is having. It’s more about the experience for me.”
That’s even if it is challenging.
“I welcome the challenge,” he said. “Some of the challenges are a lot rougher than the others, but it’s all worth it. It’s not just about me. It’s about family and friends and sharing the gift that was given to me to show to other people.”
Raphael Saadiq “No Bandwidth” Tour
WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14
WHERE: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, Tucson
COST: Tickets start at $24
INFO: foxtucson.com
This article appears in Aug 28 – Sep 4, 2025.