New York City’s SummerStage offers two of my favorite things “free” concerts and “good” music. The annual summer concert series includes a diverse group of performances in genres ranging from Gospel to Soul/R&B and Jazz.
Set for a thirty-one day run between the months of June and August, this year’s SummerStage features three blazing line ups. Rain or shine, those line-ups include gospel/inspirational artists Smokie Norful, Tye Tribbett and Ruben Studdard; sultry jazz with Ledisi and Esperanza Spalding; and R&B/Soul singers Chrisette Michele, Joe, Ginuwine, Jazmine Sullivan and Joe.
What does this mean ?
If you need a cheap date SummerStage will not only make you look like a baller but, with help you’ll gain some points in the romance department. If you are single it is also a good way to scout for a potential summer husband or wife. Since the outdoor concerts are free I suggest arriving early so you can secure a comfortable spot to enjoy the music, friends and food. Items that you should pack in you duffle bag include a blanket, camera, water, snacks and an umbrella or poncho just in case we get one of those quick summer showers.
SummerStage concert line-up…
EVENT BREAKDOWN/DETAILS: (*subject to change)
Saturday, June 13 – 3pm
Smokie Norful
Tye Tribbett & G.A.
Ruben Studdard
Gospel’s brightest stars shine in this praise-filled afternoon.
Saturday, June 20 – 3pm
Definitely Poetry Hosted by Majora Carter
Earthdriver
Staceyann Chin
Jennifer Johns
Artattles
Urban Word NYC
Join urban green pioneer Majora Carter and friends in celebration of our planet through innovative and powerful spoken word artists, musicians, and visual artists.
Sunday, June 28 – 3pm
Ledisi / Esperanza SpaldingJonathan Batiste
Two sensual jazz-fusion vocalists share this dynamic co-bill, accompanied by an on-the-rise pianist.
Saturday, July 18 – 3pm
Q-Tip
Chester French
Little Dragon
Benji B
The beloved hip hop innovator and Renaissance man (Q-Tip) shares the day with musical trailblazers from around the globe. Presented in association with Giant Step.
Sunday, July 19 – 3pm
Alpha Blondy & The Solar System
Lee “Scratch” Perry & Dubblestandart
Subatomic Sound System
These two charismatic and political reggae originators from Côte d’Ivoire and Jamaica have defined the genre and expanded its global reach.
Friday, July 24 – 7pm
Bettye LaVette
Budos Band
Felix Hernandez Rhythm Revue
Sophisticated soul songstress Bettye Lavette shares a bill with the NYC’s own Afro Soul band and radio personality/soul music champion.
Sunday, July 26 -3pm
Ginuwine
Joe
Chico DeBarge
A full afternoon of R&B legends.
Sunday, August 9 – 3pm
Jazmine Sullivan
Chrisette Michele
Jon B
R&B and soul takes center stage on this bill with heartfelt anthems, ballads, love songs and good vibes from three of today’s most sought after vocalists. —— By: Adeniyi Omisore/Njai Joszor
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