Lincoln Center Out of Doors: Sason Finale: Bobby Rush, Allen Toussaint, Brian and Eddie Holland, moderated by Harry Weinger, Como Mamas (NY Debut)

Motown’s own Gershwin brothers, Eddie and Brian Holland, forged the soundtrack for a generation, writing legendary hits for the likes of the Four Tops, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye. In this intimate set, the songwriters and producers recount the tales behind the classic songs in an on-stage conversation with producer Harry Weinger, and then perform them in powerful, pared-down arrangements.

Solo at the piano, New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint can only hint at his long, artful, genre-shattering career. From jazz gems to hot-and-heavy funk, from production work with Lee Dorsey, Paul McCartney, and Labelle to collaborations with Dr. John, Elvis Costello, and The Band, Toussaint’s musical creativity and gifts range far, but he always comes back to his hometown’s rhythm and blues as he channels both revelry and reflection with a virtuosic touch on the keys.

Bobby Rush calls his blend of rough-hewn vocals, acoustic tunes, and dance-floor-friendly grooves “folk funk.” Hailing from down in Louisiana and raised on old-school Chicago blues, the singer, harmonica player, and guitarist leaps in his own eccentric direction. Loved for hits like “Chicken Heads” and honored for his recent stripped-down songs, Rush and his band push R&B into soulful, funky territory.

Roots of American Music is sponsored by Toyota.