Summer has hit us hard in the last couple days with temps in the 80′s and crazy amounts of humidity. The true testament that Summer has officially begun in Milwaukee though is the kickoff to Summerfest! The world’s largest music festival is back again for its 45th anniversary with some must see artists on tap. There is so much music during this two week event that it’s hard to keep track of who’s playing when. We saved you the headache and put together a little list of 10 shows that you probably shouldn’t miss. Some of the artists mentioned are new to Summerfest and others are seasoned veterans. See who made the list and let us know who you’re planning on checking out this year!
Lupe Fiasco
Wednesday, June 27th - 10PMHarley-Davidson Roadhouse
This isn’t Lupe’s first go around at Summerfest. He’s been attending since back when “Kick Push” was his hit single. Mr. Fiasco has come along way since those days and his hip-hop game has evolved to great levels. This should be an exciting set to catch to start off the festival season.
Eric Benet
Thursday, June 28th - 9:30PMBriggs & Stratton Big Backyard
Eric Benet has been killing the R&B game for years now. Not only is his music incredible, but his drummer is a local homie from Milwaukee. Our boy Wes keeps the rhythm flowing for Eric Benet and the rest of his group on a regular basis. Make sure you check out Eric Benet on Thursday and show some love for some incredible artists.
Mayer Hawthorne
Sunday, July 1st - 6PMBriggs & Stratton Big Backyard
If the fellas at the shop agree on one thing, it’s that Mayer Hawthorne is one of our favorite artists out there right now. Sundays are perfect for the likes of the Mayer and we take full advantage. His last two albums are both equally just as good and his live shows are killer. This is an early Sunday show so it shouldn’t be too crowded. Get their early and get a good seat enjoy an awesome show.
Herman Astro
Tuesday, July 3rd - 6:30PMSummerfest Rock Stage
Herman Astro is one of the best Milwaukee groups out there right now. Poco has been to more Herman Astro concerts in the last year than he can count one hand, but that won’t keep him from attending their Summerfest show. These guys jam hard and with our homie Zach on lead vocals, every concert is sure to be a good time. Make sure you check out these Milwaukee bloods on Tuesday.
Trevor Hall
Wednesday July 4th - 8PMMiller Lite Oasis
One of my good buddies introduced me to Trevor Hall about 4 years ago. His mellow acoustic grooves make for a relaxing time and some great music to hang around with. Lime Tree is one of his greatest songs to date and I’m sure when you hear it you’ll agree.
David Gray
Wednesday July 4th - 9:45PMBMO Harris Pavilion
I’m only 23 years old it’s hard to say this but, my dad introduced me to David Gray. All of his albums since White Ladder have been some of the most played in my iTunes for a few years now. I saw him back in the day at the Pabst Theater and it was one of the best concerts I’ve seen so don’t sleep on catching him at the fest.
Atmosphere
Friday, July 6th - 6:30PMMiller Lite Oasis
If you haven’t seen an Atmosphere show then you haven’t lived. Slug puts on some of the best hip-hop performances around and it’s still up there as one of the bet concerts I ever saw at The Pabst Theater. Another early show on a Friday so if you get their early, I’m sure that there will be ample seats available.
Fitz and the Tantrums
Friday, July 6th - 10PMPotawatomi Bingo Casino Stage and Pavilion
Fitz and the Tantrums have been doing their thing since 2008 and have become widely popular in the area due to their play on Radio Milwaukee. To have this group of suits at Summerfest will surely be special and an amazing show. Don’t miss out!
Anthony Hamilton
Saturday, July 7th - 9:45PMBMO Harris Pavilion
Grammy award winning Anthony Hamilton has played the last couple Summerfests to a great and receptive crowd. The R&B singer has one of the greatest voices in the music game right now and is resurrecting R&B music as we speak. He’s done work with Jill Scott, Nat King Cole, and many other top artists in the game. Show this man some respect and show up for a great show!
Common
Saturday, July 7th - 10PMHarley Davidson Roadhouse
Last, but certainly and absolutely not least, Common will be back again this year to rock the crowd. This Chicago native has been on the up and up and up since his album, GO released. He’s had some of the top hits over the last few years and will be a perfect show to close out Summerfest!