The Taylor Swift concerts at Soldier Field may be the biggest thing going this weekend, but that doesn’t mean they’re the best. Taylor is cool, but there are some thrilling Chicago area music events to kick off the first weekend of Black Music Month.
With that said, here are seven fun activities to consider this weekend:
2023 Chicago Gospel Music Festival (All Day Saturday)
Chicago is the undisputed home of Gospel music, so it’s only fitting that the Gospel Music Festival is one of the best showcases for this music in the country. This year is no different. The free event — yes, I said FREE — features the Gospel supernova Tye Tribbett and inimitable Karen Clark Sheard, among others. The event takes place this Saturday at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Good music for the soul for free? What more can you ask for, honestly? Go here for more information.
Simone Green Live at Q’s Lounge (Friday Night)
Ms. Green is a local treasure. This versatile vocalist has been ripping up stages in Chicago and beyond with her potent yet graceful take on R&B, House, Old School, Jazz and Blues. She will be performing at Q’s Lounge this Friday evening. We can’t think of a better date night event. Only advance tickets are available, so you must head to this Facebook page to purchase tickets.
An Evening with Branford Marsalis (Friday Night)
Any opportunity to hear this virtuoso jazz saxophonist play music is a gift. Marsalis will play at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on Friday evening at the CSO’s Symphony Center. For any jazz lover out there — I’m talking about real jazz heads — this show is the one. For ticket information, visit the Chicago Symphony Orchestra page.
Rhomania Sigma Explosion Fest & TORCH Awards hosted by Delta Sigma Chapter (All Day Saturday)
Anytime Bilal and RES are on the bill, you’ll get that good music, that real neo-soul we still cherish. They headline the Rhomania Sigma Explosion Fest & TORCH Awards. This Saturday event is brought to you by the Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Anytime good music, food and fun are in the mix, you have a winner. Head here for ticket info.
Hadiya’s Promise Presents: The 10th Annual Party4Peace (Saturday)
We will always remember Hadiya Pendleton. That’s why we’re glad that Party4Peace continues to honor her memory. This event at Hadiya Pendelton Park will offer food, music, fun and bouncy houses for the little ones. As the name indicates, this is a party in the name of peace — a cause truly worthy of your support. Head here for more info on this free event.
Incognito with Special Guest Loose Ends Featuring Jane Eugene (Saturday)
Let’s call this event the British soul invasion. Incognito and Loose Ends, two of the most revered music groups from across the pond, perform at the Hard Rock Casino in Northern Indiana this Saturday evening. Great music by these veteran performers makes for what should be an unforgettable experience. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
Sunday Service: In The Garden (Sunday afternoon-evening-ish)
If DJ Duane Powell presides over the music, it promises to be a soulful and futuristic religious experience. Really. He will host his Sunday Service: In The Garden outdoors at the charming Kenwood Gardens at 6929 S. Kenwood. Be prepared to dance, sing, shout, and fellowship with the community. Bring your percussive instruments, tambourines, dancing spirit and lawn chairs. Check this Facebook page for more info on this free event.
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