Join us for a sophisticated evening of soul music as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the vibrant legacy of the 1980s. Featuring the acclaimed Brian Owens, this concert is an essential cultural event for fans and a highlight of the Saint Louis concerts calendar. The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: Soulful Reimaginations

Experience a journey through nostalgic joy as Brian Owens revisits the unforgettable sounds of the 1980s. The setlist includes:

• 1980s Anthems: Iconic hits reinterpreted through the lens of classic soul and contemporary artistry.
• Heartfelt Ballads: Inventive arrangements of the greatest songs from a decade defined by neon colors, video games, and MTV. Brian Owens reimagines these unforgettable sounds—soulful, high-energy, and full of nostalgic joy. Expect inventive arrangements of the greatest hits from the decade. 

The Performer: Brian Owens

This exceptional evening features the renowned vocalist whose voice is steeped in tradition. WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens has curated this unique program, selecting pieces that reflect our mission to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy. The Saint Louis-based singer and creative curator seamlessly blends storytelling and community spirit in every appearance. He has performed internationally alongside luminaries such as Michael McDonald and Michael Bublé. As the founder of the Life Creative STL ecosystem, he mentors young talent and develops innovative education initiatives.

Thematic Connection: Strategy and Soul

Just as a grandmaster navigates a complex board with intuition, Brian Owens navigates the intricate melodies of pop classics with soulful precision. This performance bridges the gap between the structured logic found in chess education and the fluid emotion of rhythm and blues.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members
• Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
• Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.

The World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) is excited to offer its members a limited number of Season Ticket packages for the 2026 WCHOF Music Series season! Season Ticket holders may share their tickets with family and friends. Season Ticket holders and their guests will also enjoy exclusive amenities:

• Early entry at 5:00 p.m. (regular entry at 5:30 p.m.)
• 20% discount at Q Boutique and early access to concert merchandise
• Reserved priority seats for both the artist talk (6:00 p.m.) and concert (7:00 p.m.)
• Complimentary refreshments during the concert

Purchase Season Tickets Now!