Kings Return brings soulful a cappella harmonies to SUNY Oswego

Dynamic a cappella quartet Kings Return will bring its signature blend of R&B, jazz, gospel and pop to SUNY Oswego’s Waterman Theatre at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5. 

The concert in the ARTSwego Performing Arts Series will feature opening performances by the Oswego High School Chamber Singers and the Oswego State Singers, celebrating vocal music and the power of community.

Kings Return takes pride in crafting a diverse yet supremely cohesive a cappella sound. The blend of their unique vocal timbres is so smooth that, at times, it can sound more like a full choir than a mere four men. Drawn to the flexibility of a cappella music, the group takes full advantage of the genre-mixing aspects of the tradition. Their brand of R&B is entwined with free moments of jazz, soulful bursts of gospel and bright touches of pop — all built on a solid, classical foundation.

Composed of tenor Vaughn Faison, bass Gabe Kunda, tenor JE McKissic and baritone Jamall Williams, the Dallas-based quartet captured the hearts of millions of fans in person and online. Their popular covers of nostalgic theme songs from movies, TV shows and video games, alongside their mashups of popular artists like Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige and Boyz II Men, have garnered millions of views on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

Beyond the stage, Kings Return emphasizes connection, vulnerability and giving back. The group’s name reflects its artistic philosophy: “Kings” represents the confidence and resilience they bring to their work, while “Return” speaks to their commitment to supporting the communities that have helped them grow.

“We don’t use any instruments, and it can feel very vulnerable to perform on stage alone, especially as Black men — with all stigma that entails,” Kunda said. “When we come together to do this vulnerable thing called a cappella, it strengthens our bonds. It makes us tighter as a unit and as human beings. We want to be examples for other men like us.”

During their visit to Oswego, Kings Return will also lead workshops for both the Oswego High School Chamber Singers and the Oswego State Singers, offering students an opportunity to learn from professional vocalists. 

Thanks to the generous support of the Richard S. Shineman Foundation, admission to this concert will be free for everyone ages kindergarten through college students, including those at SUNY Oswego. The opportunity is designed to make live vocal performance accessible to young audiences and encourage the next generation of singers and music lovers.

Tickets are $20 for the general public and $15 for SUNY Oswego faculty, staff and alumni. Reserve your tickets through the SUNY Oswego Box Office.

-- Submitted by ARTSwego