Laura Mvula

Wednesday:
>> The FORWARD 2013 festival kicks off with a panel and party at Tropicalia. On hand will be Bill Kouligas, R Rose, Beautiful Swimmers and NxNW. 7 p.m. $10.

Thursday:
>> One of Prince’s most successful disciples, Sheila E., returns to the Howard Theatre where her drumming and vocal skill will be on full display. 7:30 p.m. $34.50 in advance, $39 at the door.

>> It’s been a year since D.C. lost one of its largest musical icons, Chuck Brown. To celebrate the go-go godfather’s music, an all-star tribute will take place at the Howard Theatre featuring KK, The Horny Horns, Sweet Cherie, Frank Scooby Sirius from Familiar Faces, Mighty Moe Hagans, Karlston “Ice” Ross, Jas Funk, Marcus Young, Sugar Bear from EU, Whiteboy from Rare Essence, Buggs from Junk Yard and Derrick from Vybe. 10:30 p.m. $25 in advance, $30 at the door.

Friday:
>> R&B crooner Brian McKnight is in D.C. again to sing some of his hits like “Anytime” for fans at the Howard Theatre for two shows. 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. shows, $60 in advance, $65 at the door.

>> It’s time again for the Sol Power All-Stars to bring the musical flavor of the African diaspora to Tropicalia, this time as a part of the FORWARD 2013 festivities. Joining them will be Philly’s Lil’ Dave. 10 p.m. Free.

Sunday:
>> British singer Laura Mvula has been creating a nice buzz for herself in her native land as well as in the States with her debut album, Sing to the Moon. She’ll be at the Birchmere for the evening. 7:30 p.m. $19.50.