Soaking up the sun in Chicago: the outdoor music scene!

We saw what is to come in months ahead this past weekend – a warm sun. When we think of a warm sun we think of live music outdoors in Chicago. Let’s throw the festival scene aside right now for this conversation because we all know Pitchfork and Lollapalooza will come to the front. But, what we want to know is what shows this summer will kill out in the summer sun, whether it’s by the lakefront at Charter One Pavilion, on a neighborhood street or wherever you may see it happen. Jack Johnson at Alpine Valley? Phil Lesh, O.A.R. or John Mellencamp at Charter One Pavilion? Or, how about John Mayer or Dave Matthews Band in the outdoor arenas. It’s part of what makes this city special, so soak it up while you can.

15 Responses to “Soaking up the sun in Chicago: the outdoor music scene!”

  1. Jackson Says:

    Seeing that I live right by Alpine, I am really pumped about Jack Johnson, but Phil Lesh on the lake will be pretty sweet too.

  2. Hannah Says:

    I cannot wait to see Jack Johnson! He is one of my all time favorites! His show at Alpine looks promising! OAR will definitely be a great show as well! They put on incredible live show.

  3. Kristen Says:

    The Dave concert at Toyota Park this past week just goes to prove why The Dave Matthews Band is still as hot and popular as they were 10 years ago! These guys own the stage and always put on a stellar show, and this concert was no exception. At this moment I am looking foward to Jack at Alpine on the first real day of summer! His new disc is by far one of his best yet, and being that I havent seen a show of his in 3 years I am more than eager to see how he handles the stage with such a large crowd… it should be amazing!

  4. MaryJane Says:

    Lollapalooza this year is going to be amazing! This weekend outside is always my favorite of the summer and I have been hearing the lineup is suppose to be out of this world!

  5. Kelly Says:

    My beloved Allman Brothers Band are back and once again one with nature (at the Charter One Pav that is)….there is nothing like seeing the Brothers in the nitetime air!! Can’t wait for August to get here!!!!

  6. Kelly Says:

    Was anyone else at the Phil Lesh and Friends show this past Friday evening at Charter One on Northerly Island? This was my first show at this venue and I was so impressed. It was an abcolutely gorgeous evening and the crowd was awesome. I like how intimate and accesable this venue is. After being at Charter One, I am definitely going to be more enthusiastic about future shows at Charter One. Mellencamp, anyone??

  7. Bob Says:

    Was anyone else out at the Phil Lesh and friends show this past Friday at Northerly Island? This was my first show at this venue and I was totally impressed!!! What a gorgeous place for a venue, right out on the Lake and yet still so intimate. The crowd was great and I had a blast! I’m definitely looking forward to more shows this summer at Charter One! Mellencamp, anyone??

  8. Bruce Says:

    Phil Lesh & Friends at the Charter One Pavilion was awesome! The show rocked. The only drawback of the venue was the fact that the police in the parking lot must have woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Anyone that was there may have noticed the head of the party poopers (chief in the white shirt) aimlessly walking around smoking endless cigarettes and shouting obcenities at the peaceful concert goers. He did not like deadheads. He had some type of chip on his shoulder and was just all around a very sour person. The music and even the employees inside the venue more than made up for it.

  9. Josephine Says:

    OAR at Charter One Pavillion will be amazing! I cant wait and I know they will put on a good show…I have never been to Charter One, but I have heard great things!

  10. Freddie Says:

    If you haven’t seen John Mayer live, he will woo you with his guitar and voice even if you think his studio stuff is just alright. Once you see Mayer in concert, you cannot get enough of his riffs, great lyrics, and his concert will leave you wanting more…

  11. Ellie Says:

    Jamming at the Zoo last Friday night with Blondie was a blast! Debbie’s a little older but she looked great dazzling fans and the Lincoln Park Zoo’s lions as she sang old favorites and danced around stage in high heels.

  12. Michelle Says:

    I am so excited for the upcoming O.A.R. concert the 24th. I saw them 3 years ago at charter one and it was amazing. They always seem to put on a great show. They know how to pump up the crowd and get them going! Going to an outdoor concert is a great way to fully enjoy summer!

  13. Danny Byrne Says:

    In regards to Charter One Pavilion venue and the Phil shows and the police presence in the parking lot. Missed this year Phil show-was at Bonnaroo where I did see Phil, but that’s a story for another string. Charter One is an outstanding venue with the exception of Mr. White Shirt and Friends. I have had several encounters with him: previous year Phil show, Petty, and Trey. There is a way dealing with the unfair situation. Unfair in that, tailgating for Bears game is just fine in that lot, but not for concerts!?! Clear Channel really should do something, if it (they) cared. But here’s my advice. Pour any beverage you like into a coffee traveler (with a lid!), ergo, Mr. White Shirt and Friends have no reason (probable cause) to hassle you. Key thing here is to be discreet. Also, as always, be kind.

  14. John Says:

    I LOVE CHICAGO!

  15. Brian Says:

    Went to see Lucinda Williams though I don’t know too much about her.. so naturally she skipped the 3 or 4 songs I would know. John cougar was better than I ever thought. What a dance party and sing along the night turned out to be. Wish Lucinda played later with the lights on.

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