CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
OPELIKA — Every Tuesday evening, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika.
This 13-week Summer Swing Concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment.
Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation.
The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic.
The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with a long, rich history, will give complimentary rides from 6:30 to 7 p.m.
For more information call (334) 705-5560 or email LChesser@opelika-al.gov.
Sponsors include the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, The Observer, WKKR 97.7 and FOX Sports the Game 910-1310 AM.
Following is a schedule of entertainment.
May 21 — Kidd Blue
Formed right on Toomer’s Corner in 1985 and led and inspired by the late great Opelika native, Robert Orr, Kidd Blue continues to bring their “New Old Soul” to parties and events throughout the Southeast. For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others. Do not miss this rare opportunity to experience Kidd Blue in an outdoor public performance. Follow the band on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – @KiddBlueBand.
May 28 — The Dave Potts Band
Dave Potts is an acoustic singer/songwriter, performing a mix of his original music along with folk and country favorites. Dave’s music has been met with critical acclaim, including winning 1st Place in the Folk/Americana category at the International Acoustic Music Awards. He has released 14 albums of original music and performed in 43 states. Prominent internet retailer CD Baby made his CD ,$12.99, an Editor’s Pick and featured disc of the month upon its release. Their review raves, “His influences aren’t surprising (David Wilcox, James Taylor, John Denver) but there is a definite reach beyond genre here, even while his music fits comfortably both within folk and country. That reach is one of unhindered, inspired musicality embodied within music that feels like it was always yearning to be written.
June 4 — Conner Lorre – Neil Diamond Tribute Artist
Conner Lorre’s spectacular recreation of Neil Diamond’s voice has been receiving STANDING OVATIONS NATIONWIDE, including his show at CAESAR’S PALACE in LAS VEGAS. Conner delivers stunningly accurate voice impressions of Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra, John Denver, Jimmy Buffett, Elton John, Alan Jackson, Lee Greenwood, and many more. Conner is one of Opelika’s favorite entertainers. This show is guaranteed to captivate Opelika again this year. Keep up with Conner at www.ConnerLorre.com and www.facebook.com/TheVoxStar
June 11— Route 66
This energetic group plays it all… Oldies, Pop, Rock and Dance music. Audience participation in encouraged. Join the “Monkey Park dancers” on the grass around the stage as they dance, blow bubbles and have a great time!
June 18 — GP38
GP38 delivers Real Country Music along with a mix of southern & classic rock with an unmistakable Muscle Shoals, AL influence. A driving, high energy show, led by Opelika resident Chris McDaniel, that will have everyone singing along, dancing, and having a good time!
June 25 — Muse
34th year on the Summer Swing bandstand! Easy listening, vocal oriented acoustic soft rock played as only Muse can. Together for 46 years, Muse will perform fan favorites by artists such as the Eagles, Beatles, CSN, James Taylor, Van Morrison, Little Big Town, Jason Isbell and more.
July 2 — Crossroads
Crossroads is a six-piece variety band that covers many country and classic rock hits. The band performs selections from artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Sugaland, REM and The Eagles, as well as Taylor Swift, The Beatles and Chris Stapleton. Crossroads produces smooth vocal harmonies and provides audiences with a unique, varied and entertaining experience. More info can be found at facebook.com/auburncrossroadsband.
July 9 — Martha’s Trouble
Jen & Rob Slocumb are living their musical dream. While building their family, they have continued to write and play music, producing about a dozen albums and touring around the country and the world. And their work has not gone unnoticed. Some of the most influential and well-respected music critics have paid tribute to the duo.
They have been listed and featured in Billboard Magazine, USA Today, AOL Music, XM Satellite Radio and Performing Songwriter. Their songs have received multiple awards, including Best Americana Album of the Year by Just Plain Folk Awards, their Christmas Lights recording was selected as one of USA Today’s Top Holiday Albums, their cover of Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now was selected as one of Billboard Magazine’s Top 10 Cover Songs, and their recordings have been featured in several made-for-TV movies.
July 16 — James Brown Trio
The James Brown Trio is a Southern Gospel group that will have your toes tapping and heart stirring to songs from the past as well as current tunes that are soon to be classics. The namesake (James Brown) started the group 23 years ago with Charles Story and Adam Traylor but since the deaths of James and Charles respectively, the trio has continued the tradition of good ole Southern Gospel music with new members. Today the trio consists of Adam & Teel Traylor as well as Kevin Webb from Auburn, AL. You will not want to miss this group’s harmonious sounds beneath the beautiful summer night sky.
July 23 — Fedoras
This acoustic duo plays folk, pop, and bluegrass tunes the whole family will enjoy.
July 30 — Back to School Bash
Enjoy a final concert as we bid summer farewell.
