If you want to stand out among the options available during Milwaukee’s crowded summer concert season, it helps to go big. A new series put together by local engagement marketing firm Culture x Design has done exactly that for its free events coming to the grounds outside the Marcus Performing Arts Center.
The Summer of Soul: Outdoor Market & Concert Series will hold an outdoor show every other Wednesday between July 10 and Sept. 18 (six total), mixing local talent with a few instantly recognizable national artists. Rapper Talib Kweli, the gospel-tinged Robert Randolph Band and alt-R&B trio Moonchild are the out-of-towners, while Growing Nation, Brew City Soul and De La Buena will represent Milwaukee on their dates.
Culture x Design managing director Geraud Blanks noted in a release that the series “is a unique opportunity for our community to come together and enjoy world-class entertainment at no cost, breaking barriers and fostering a strong sense of belonging. It’s a tribute to Milwaukee’s rich culture, creativity and community, where diversity thrives and individuals from all walks of life immerse themselves in limitless artistic expressions. And the best part? It's free!"
It is hard to argue with the cost, especially considering the return you get on your investment of time (and parking, I suppose). Each installment starts at 4 p.m. and includes local businesses showing off their crafts and cuisine, in addition to the killer music lineup. Speaking of which, you can find the full schedule below so you can start making adjustments to your concert calendar.
Summer of Soul concert schedule
- July 10 — Growing Nation
- July 24 — The Robert Randolph Band
- Aug. 7 — Moonchild
- Aug. 21 — Talib Kweli
- Sept. 4 — Brew City Soul
- Sept. 18 — De La Buena
