Cougar Unleashed

Get ready to hit the dance floor as Cougar Unleashed brings the best of the Bay Area’s funky soul and R&B to Tupelo. Led by the charismatic Rhonda “Cougar” Crouch, this powerhouse ensemble is known for its high-octane “party band” energy and a setlist that spans from soulful deep-cuts to classic rock anthems. This is North Beach nightlife at its peak—loud, sweaty, and impossible to sit still for.

• The Sound: Cougar Unleashed delivers a “funky, soulful edge” to everything they touch. Their repertoire is a high-energy mix of Neo-Soul, R&B, Funk, and Rock. Expect everything from soaring Aretha Franklin-style vocals to hard-hitting covers of AC/DC, all backed by a rhythm section that prioritizes the “get down.”

• The “Cougar” Power: Frontwoman Rhonda Crouch (voted Bay Area Idol 2012) is a contralto force of nature. Her commanding stage presence and versatile vocal range allow the band to pivot effortlessly between soulful ballads and thundering rock-and-roll.

• The Full Party Experience: The night kicks off at 9:00 PM with DJ Van (or guest DJs like Kevey Kev), who sets the vibe with breaks and hip-hop before the band takes over at 10:00 PM. Get there early—Tupelo is a North Beach staple that frequently reaches capacity on Friday nights.

• No Cover: In keeping with Tupelo’s mission of keeping live music accessible, there is no cover charge for this show. It’s an elite musical experience right on Grant Avenue with no barriers to entry.

About Cougar Unleashed

Formed in 2013 by Rhonda “Cougar” Crouch and veteran bassist Warren Anthony, Cougar Unleashed has become one of Northern California’s most sought-after party and festival bands. Known for their “unleashed” energy and technical prowess, the group has headlined major events like the Campbell Oktoberfest and the East Palo Alto Blues Festival. Whether they are performing as a stripped-down duo or a full powerhouse ensemble, their mission is simple: tell the stories of life through a sound that is unapologetically melodic, soulful, and funky.