Hoosier singer-songwriter John Mellencamp will talk about his creative process in an interview with journalist Bob Costas in the first installment of a new weekly series “With” on PBS.
On the heels of the arrival of Mellencamp’s 25th full-length studio album “Orpheus Descending,” he’ll sit down with jCostas for the premiere of the new, intimate, one-hour public television series “With,” directed by Emmy Nominated Patrick Heaphy. The series premieres nationwide on public television Saturday, July 1. WFYI, a PBS affiliate in Indianapolis, will air the program at 5 p.m. Saturday.
Full episodes will also be available to stream weekly on WithTheShow.com.
“With” will continue, featuring vulnerable conversations pairing music icons with fellow creators, musicians and friends for a candid glimpse inside the creation of their most beloved hits. “With” will feature five episodes of unheard stories, additionally pairing Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi with David Fricke; Peter Frampton with Trey Bruce at Analog Hutton Hotel; Mike Campbell with Fricke; and Angus Young and Brian Johnson of AC/DC with Fricke.
The artists will be discussing the songwriting process, challenges within the music industry and philosophy behind their art, and peel back the curtain, exposing the perseverance that goes into creating their music.
In the season opener Mellencamp, a Seymour native, musician and longtime painter, talks with Costas about fame and his dual paths of creativity, being an upstander, having control over one’s art, breaking the rules, and his influences from Woody Guthrie to German Expressionism to his grandmother.
Filmed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Mellencamp expresses both sides of his artistry as he plays his guitar amidst a selection of his self-portraits and drawings assembled for the episode.
“John is a great artist, and to deal in understatement, an interesting and opinionated man,” Costas said in a news release. “As it happens, we have known each other for more than 30 years and this is the latest of many interviews we have done together. Given the setting and the stage of John’s life and career, it stands out as one of the most memorable.”
“It is an honor to have John Mellencamp and Bob Costas at The Metropolitan Museum of Art,” shares Don Maggi, executive producer of “With.” “John was our first choice to film at The Met to honor his achievements in his music and painting career.”
“With” is a production of Don Maggi with iMaggination, Inc. and directed by Patrick Heaphy of LCM247, and is distributed nationally by the National Educational Television Association (NETA). With was made possible by support from The Hutton Hotel Nashville Tennessee and Heavens Door Whiskey.
Mellencamp’s career in music spans more than 35 years. He is a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame, a recipient of the John Steinbeck Award, the ASCAP Foundation’s Champion Award, The Woody Guthrie Award, the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award and, more recently, the Founders Award — the top honor assigned by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
He is also one of the most successful live concert performers in the world and has performed in Terre Haute venues such as the Indiana Theatre and Hulman Center. In 1985, Mellencamp, together with Willie Nelson and Neil Young, created Farm Aid. The social activism reflected in his songs helped catalyze Farm Aid, the concert series and organization that has addressed the struggle of American family farmers for more than 25 years.
Mellencamp also continues to focus on another facet of his artistic expression: painting. His style has progressed over the years as evidenced by several gallery shows and published portfolios, and in recent years he has increased his output by completing over 150 new works. A self-curated book of Mellencamp’s work, “John Mellencamp: Paintings and Assemblages,” is out now via Rizzoli New York.
“Legends of Rock: John Mellencamp,” a permanent exhibition at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, opened last year. There, Mellencamp confirmed his massive “Live and In Person 2023” tour, which completed a stunning 77 date run. LA Weekly said, “Mellencamp strode out looking for all the world like a Brando or a Paul Newman or a James Dean—a Misfit who managed to find his place in the world through his music.”
A reissue of his seminal album Scarecrow is out now to critical praise, and features a wealth of bonus tracks, rarities and more. Mellencamp’s 25th full-length studio album “Orpheus Descending” was released June 16 via Republic Records. It was recorded at his own Belmont Mall Studio and produced by Mellencamp. One of his most personal records to date, standout tracks “Hey God” and “The Eyes of Portland” focus on social issues Mellencamp continues to passionately advocate for.
Mellencamp continues his journey as the walking embodiment of rock icon; passionate, plain-spoken, and a self-proclaimed rebel. John Mellencamp continues to live and work in Bloomington, Indiana.
“With Season 1” premiere dates (for TV, check local listings):
July 1 – John Mellencamp WITH Bob Costas
July 8 – Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi WITH David Fricke
July 15 – Peter Frampton WITH Trey Bruce
July 22 – Mike Campbell WITH David Fricke
July 29 – Angus Young and Brian Johnson of AC/DC WITH David Fricke
Notes Live, the Colorado Springs entertainment company that’s developing an 8,000-seat outdoor amphitheater on the city’s north side and envisions concerts and shows with the nation’s top artists, has snagged its first big name: AEG Presents.
AEG Presents, which brings talent and shows to worldwide venues including the outdoor Red Rocks and Fiddler’s Green amphitheaters near Denver and The Broadmoor World Arena and Pikes Peak Center in the Springs, and which promotes concert tours for Elton John, Taylor Swift, Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran and other superstars, has signed a 10-year deal with Notes Live to book acts and operate its new Springs facility, which will be called The Sunset and is targeted to open in summer 2024.
AEG Presents’ longtime presence along the Front Range and its success in promoting big-name performers will be paramount to the success of The Sunset, said J.W. Roth, Notes Live’s chairman and founder, who announced the AEG agreement in a joint statement with the company.
“When I first started this thing, the most important sort of piece to my business model was, how am I going to sell tickets?” Roth said in an interview. “How am I going to book A-list artists? … How am I going to put butts in seats? It became obvious to me early, early on that I didn’t want just a booking agreement with somebody. I can go get that with anybody. I wanted a true operating partner.
“They’re the controlling promoter of the Front Range,” Roth said of AEG Presents. “They’ve booked more shows at Red Rocks and Fiddler’s than anybody else. At the end of the day, that is appealing to me being the next closest market. I wanted to benefit from the AEG relationships at their other venues. It was … a pretty obvious choice. It might not be that way in every market. But for sure in this market, it’s a no-brainer.”
A rendering shows a restaurant and event center complex that would be built at the east edge of The Sunset, an 8,000-seat, outdoor amphitheater planned to open in summer 2024 in northern Colorado Springs by Notes Live, the Springs-based entertainment company. The complex would be open year-round and operate separately from the amphitheater. BCA-STUDIOS/COURTESY NOTES LIVE
Brent Fedrizzi, co-president and chief operating officer of AEG Presents Rocky Mountains, said Colorado Springs’ growth and appetite for entertainment makes it ripe for a venue such as The Sunset and acts that the entertainment promoter will bring to town.
“This is an opportunity for the citizens of Colorado Springs and Pueblo and Fountain and all the surrounding communities, Monument, to have their own outdoor facility to go to and enjoy,” Fedrizzi said. “We want to deliver on that. I think our relationship with Notes Live is going to be a great one and we’re going to work well together.”
Notes Live plans to hold a ceremonial groundbreaking July 12 for The Sunset and Roth now hopes to open the venue during the first of week of June next year; up to now, utility and grading work has taken place at the site, including creation of an amphitheater seating bowl, he said.
The Sunset will be built at the 200-acre Polaris Pointe retail and commercial development, southeast of Interstate 25 and North Gate Boulevard and home to dozens of stores, restaurants and entertainment uses.
Roth has said he intends to make The Sunset “the most luxurious amphitheater in history.” It will have upscale amenities such as VIP stadium seating and luxury fireplace suites and look out to a scenic mountain backdrop that will make it one of the nation’s premier entertainment destinations, he has said.
Springs-area residents, Notes Live officials have said, will be able to avoid a drive to Denver for concerts and shows. The community, meanwhile, will reap an economic impact of tax revenues, restaurant sales, hotel stays and other spending that Notes Live has estimated will total $100 million a year.
The Colorado Springs City Council approved The Sunset in January — an OK that came over the objection of some nearby homeowners who feared the venue will create noise, parking and traffic problems in their neighborhoods.
Originally pegged at $40 million, Roth said The Sunset’s cost is now nearly $56 million; that price tag includes additional land that Notes Live purchased at Polaris Pointe, which he said will increase on-site parking that some homeowners complained the venue lacked.
In addition to the amphitheater, Roth plans a 45,000-square-foot, $32 million to $33 million restaurant and event center on the east edge of the venue’s property. The building would include 15,000 square feet to house a seafood/chophouse restaurant and bar, and another 15,000 square feet for weddings, corporate functions, trade shows and other events. A third-level rooftop terrace would have an additional 15,000 square feet.
The Sunset will join other Notes Live properties at Polaris Pointe — the indoor Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers, a smaller concert venue; the Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse & Tavern; and Notes, a bar that features live music. Notes Live envisions similar multiconcept entertainment campuses in Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Texas.
Under its agreement with AEG, Notes Live will own The Sunset, while the entertainment promoter will book acts and operate the venue on a day-to-day basis, Roth said. Notes Live plans to contract with a separate operator to run the restaurant and event center, he said.
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The deal between Notes Live and AEG calls for the two companies to split concert proceeds 50-50, whether it’s a moneymaker or not, Roth said.
Though AEG will book talent, the company and Notes Live will work together on what acts will play the venue and their performance dates, he said.
What happens if Notes Live objects to a particular performer? Roth said his company wouldn’t have veto power, but could opt out from an act, which would leave AEG in the position of effectively leasing the facility from Notes Live for a day to put on the show.
The same would be true if Notes Live wanted to bring a local or regional act to the venue or if it sought to book a prom or graduation, Roth said. If AEG didn’t want to participate, Notes Live would take over The Sunset’s operation for those events, he said.
Roth, however, expects those timeouts in the Notes Live-AEG business relationship will be few and far between.
“If they think that there’s an act, if they think there’s an artist that is going to do really well at The Sunset, I would be best to go along with them,” Roth said. “They’re going to have far more data and far more insight into what works and what doesn’t work than I would. It’s the reason I did this relationship; I’m going to lean heavily on their expertise.”
No shows have been booked yet for The Sunset, though Roth said he expects AEG Presents could sign the venue’s first act in the next 90 to 120 days. Roth wants the first show to be “a monster.”
“They have a real grip on this Front Range market,” Roth said of AEG Presents. “I gain a lot by that partnership. … It puts Sunset Colorado Springs, it puts us front and center nationally and in front of the biggest touring acts in the U.S., as being a standalone market sitting right next to a standalone market that is one of the biggest in the U.S., which is Denver.”
Fedrizzi, of AEG, said many factors go into booking shows at different venues, such as available dates, an act’s production setup and whether a performer might only want to play outdoors. Whatever the case, in theory, there will be an opportunity for some acts to play both the Springs and Denver markets, he said.
“It will be a question of routing and scheduling and things like that, but we feel Colorado Springs stands on its own,” Fedrizzi said. “The citizens of Colorado Springs and Pueblo don’t always want to drive to Denver to see a show, right? So let’s bring it to their backyard and it can stand on its own. We do a lot of back-to-back-stuff, Denver and Colorado Springs, all the time. And it’s two different markets.”
The agreement with AEG is the “cherry on the top of the deal,” Roth said. “It solves so many issues in terms of what The Sunset is going to mean to the music industry.
“It’s going to be the world’s grandest amphitheater, when you take into consideration the seafood and chophouse and the event center,” he said. “Then, when you add onto it the monster in the business (AEG) is actually going to operate it, I’ll tell you it helps me sleep at night. Because there’s a lot of sleepless nights when you’re not exactly sure how you’re going to put the big names in.”
AEG Presents is part of the larger Anschutz Entertainment Group or AEG, a worldwide entertainment powerhouse based in Los Angeles. AEG is controlled by the Denver-based Anschutz Corp., whose Clarity Media Group owns The Gazette.
AEG describes itself as “the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company.”
AEG Presents is involved in all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and festivals such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, according to the AEG website. Another AEG brand owns, manages or consults with more than 350 arenas, stadiums, convention centers and performing arts venues worldwide.
A real estate arm develops performance venues, as well as sports and entertainment districts such as Crypto.com Arena and L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, the Mercedes Platz in Berlin and The O2 in London, the AEG website says.
AEG’s sports division includes the Los Angels Kings hockey team and the LA Galaxy men’s soccer club. Another AEG branch oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships.
FARMINGTON, W.Va. (WBOY) — A week of fun-filled activities is coming to a close at Marion County 4-H’s, Camp Mar Mac, but not before celebrating with its own music festival.
Lanette Swiger singing with campers and her dulcimer
The theme for this week’s camp was “Camp Mar Mac Music” where campers learned about West Virginian heritage through storytelling, songs and even a few new instruments. Camp Mar Mac invited local musicians who had participated in 4-H camps like Emily Lewis, Lanette Swiger and the Kennedy Barn String band to greet current campers and tell their stories of how 4-H influenced them.
Campers and their instruments.
12 News spoke to Marion County 4-H volunteer leader, Elaine Wilson, on the importance of creating fun and educational environments for the campers.
“I think the youth needs something that they can grow into well-rounded, well-educated adults that’s fun, and 4-H is very accepting of all walks of life. I think that it’s a good program for youth.”
Campers also brought their own instruments to get others involved in something they may have never tried before like playing an electric guitar or even a dulcimer. Activities like square dancing, ring toss and spin painting were also available for attendees of the camp.
“The people and the experiences and the adults always make it fun for us and it’s just a good time,” said Samuel Flower, a seventh year 4-H camper.
The ring toss and spin painting activities.
Gabe Mileto, a five year 4-H attendee, agreed with Samuel with his statement, “4-H is a bigger world that what it seems like. It seems like it’s’ just farm animals but you can have fun, do different projects, books, just have a good time.”
By creatively pushing campers beyond their expectations, Marion County’s 4-H is showing participants just what they’re capable of. To get involved with Marion County’s 4-H contact Marion County’s WVU Extension.
From arts and culture to sporting events and everything in between, there’s something special to do all the time in Downtown Arlington, including these upcoming events. Visitors like you help us Light Up Arlington on the daily. (See what we did there?) Join us in July, won’t you?
SUNDAY, JULY 2
Austin-based singer-songwriter Bob Schneider, former frontman of The Ugly Americans and The Scabs, has become one of the most celebrated musicians in the state. His catalog is both uplifting and sober, unafraid to tackle powerful subjects like alienation, drug addiction, and lost romance, in addition to celebrating life’s joys. He has released more than a dozen albums, written over 1,000 songs, and is a published author who doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. In fact, he’s doing a free show at Levitt Pavilion (100 W Abram St, 817-543-4308) on Sunday. For more info, visit DowntownArlington.org/do/free-concert-bob-schneider.
MONDAY, JULY 3
Join us for an evening of free family fun at Light Up Arlington at 6pm. This year’s celebration includes some of the top musical acts in the North Texas region, food trucks, vendors, and more. Bands will play on four stages starting at 6pm outside the Arlington Music Hall (224 N Center St) and Grease Monkey (200 N Mesquite St), 6:30pm outside of City Tower (101 S Mesquite St), and 7pm at Levitt Pavilion (100 W Abram St). Then, a 20-minute fireworks display will begin at 9:50pm set to music on 95.9 The Ranch FM.
TUESDAY, JULY 4
Light Up Arlington isn’t the only way to celebrate Independence Day. Head on back to Downtown on Tuesday morning for the beloved Arlington Independence Day Parade! Started in 1965, it is one of the largest 4th of July parades in Texas, so be sure to arrive early. The parade kicks off at 9 am. Line up to see colorful floats, antique cars, marching bands, unicyclists, and other parade entries wind through Downtown. For more info about Monday night and Tuesday morning activities, visit DowntownArlington.org/events/light-up-arlington.
The annual Arlington Independence Day Parade is Tuesday. Courtesy Downtown Arlington
FRIDAY – SATURDAY, JULY 7-8
Actor Major Attaway of New York’s famed New Amsterdam Theatre is back for two nights. See The Genie’s Jukebox 8pm Fri-Sat, Jul 7-8 at Theatre Arlington (305 W Main St, 817-275-7661). Attaway is here to grant all your musical wishes, “My quest to Agrabah has been nothing short of extraordinary, I’ll be posting the most magical moment!” Tickets are $25 at TheatreArlington.org.
Broadway performer Major Attaway from Fort Worth, most recently played Genie in Disney’s Aladdin. See him next week at Theatre Arlington. Courtesy Facebook
SATURDAY, JULY 15
Join Arlington Yoga Center, The Sanford House Inn & Spa, and Restaurant506 for a morning that promises to feel and taste good! At the Brunch x Yoga event from 9am to 11am, you will enjoy an outdoor practice with plenty of room to social distance in the lush and green Grand Courtyard of the Sanford House Inn (506 N Center St, 817-861-2129). It starts with an all-level, outdoor practice followed by delicious brunch noms from Restaurant506. Tickets are $20 on Eventbrite.com and include an hour of yoga, a free mimosa, and 10% off brunch at the Sanford House. BYOM (Bring your own mat) and water. Be sure to call in for a reservation at Restaurant 506 to ensure a table right after yoga. Tickets are limited, so pre-registration IS required.
WEDNESDAYS thru JULY 26
The absolute best trivia on Wednesdays is held by Pub Guys Trivia at Division Brewing (506 E Main St, 682-276-1276). Come compete against and meet some of the smartest people in North Texas in a friendly, welcoming environment with some of the best beer made in Texas.
THURSDAY, JULY 27
Born and raised in Kentucky farm country, country artist John Conlee grew up plowing fields, slopping hogs, harvesting grain, raising tobacco and tending cattle. He began his crusade to save the family farm system several years ago, performing a concert in Omaha, Nebraska in June 1985 as a benefit for the National Farmers Organization. So naturally, when Willie Nelson announced his plans for the Farm Aid concerts, Conlee offered his services and over the course of nine different Farm Aid events has helped raise 13 million dollars to aid the family farmer. He is a gifted entertainer, but would rather spend his “off the road” time working on his 32 acre farm outside of Nashville. But lucky for us, he’s touring and his show is headed to Arlington Music Hall (224 N Center St, 817-226-4400) at 8pm. Tickets are $20-$80 on Eventbrite.com.
NOW thru SEPTEMBER 24
Tylor Swift made a major impact during her three-night concert series in Arlington this spring. Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Collection at the Arlington Museum of Art (201 W Main St, 817-275-4600) explores Swift as an evolving, boundary-pushing artist. The exhibition will feature original costumes, photographs, videos, and more representing several of her creative periods, or “eras.” The exhibit can be seen 10am-5pm daily thru Sun, Sept 24. Tickets are $20 at ArlingtonMuseum.org.
NOW thru SEPTEMBER 24
The folks at Arlington Museum of Art are also presenting Girl in a Country Song: Women of Country Music, featuring rarely-seen photographs of country music legends, including Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, Faith Hill, Tanya Tucker, Patsy Cline, and LeAnn Rimes by award-winning celebrity photographer Raeanne Rubenstein. Also, check out the Hometown Harmonies exhibit, featuring personal memorabilia from celebrated musical artists Mickey Guyton, Maren Morris, and Kirstin Maldonado. Admission to Girl in a Country Song and Hometown Harmonies is included in your ticket to see Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Collection. For more info, visit ArlingtonMuseum.org
Now that the pandemic has ebbed and festivals are packed again, brands need to ask themselves a question: Are you hanging in the back watching the crowd and hoping they’ll buy from your tent, or are you part of the party?
According to entertainment and sports analytics company SponsorUnited, LiveNation—which hosts Lollapalooza, Rolling Loud, Austin City Limits, Made in America and other festivals—saw a 40% jump in festival attendance in 2022 from pre-pandemic 2019.
The Foo Fighters will be coming to the UK once again, in a tour that will take in much of the country.
It comes after they performed a surprise set at Glastonbury’s Pyramid stage under the alias The ChurnUps.
Named the Everything or Nothing at All tour, the band will play six major stadium dates throughout the UK in June 2024.
The tour will be in support of their 11th studio album But Here We Are, which was released at the beginning of June.
When and where are the Foo Fighters playing on their 2024 tour?
Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters performs at the 2023 Glastonbury Festival (Photo: Ki Price/WireImage)
The Foo Fighters are playing six UK dates as part of their 2024 tour.
13 June 2024: Manchester, Emirates Old Trafford Stadium. Support acts: Wet Leg, Loose Articles
17 June 2024: Glasgow, Hampden Stadium. Support acts: Courtney Barnett, Honeyblood
20 June 2024: London, London Stadium. Support acts: Wet Leg, Shame
22 June 2024: London, London Stadium. Support acts: Courtney Barnett, Hot Milk
25 June 2024: Cardiff, Principality Stadium. Support acts: Wet Leg, Himalayas
27 June 2024: Birmingham, Villa Park Stadium: Support acts: Courtney Barnett, Hot Milk
When do Foo Fighters 2024 tickets go on sale?
Tickets for all six UK dates go on general sale at 9am BST on 30 June via Ticketmaster and See Tickets.
Presale tickets will go on sale from 9am BST on 28 June.
How can I get a Foo Fighters pre-sale code?
Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters performs at the 2023 Glastonbury Festival (Photo: Ki Price/WireImage)
Fans who pre-registered and purchased the new Foo Fighters album But Here We Arebefore 8 June should have received a unique online code this morning to give them early access to presale tickets.
In addition, anyone who bought tickets to the cancelled 2022 UK world tour should also have received an unique online code granting them access to presale tickets from 9am BST on 28 June.
The band cancelled all dates on their worldwide 2022 tour following the death of drummer Taylor Hawkins.
Their last performance as a band was on 20 March 2022 at the Lollapalooza festival.
A statement released across the Foo Fighters social media channels read: “It is with great sadness that Foo Fighters confirm the cancellation of all upcoming tour dates in light of the staggering loss of our brother Taylor Hawkins.
“We’re sorry for and share in the disappointment that we won’t be seeing one another as planned. Instead, let’s take this time to grieve, to heal, to pull our loved ones close, and to appreciate all the music and memories we’ve made together.”
How much are Foo Fighters 2024 tour tickets?
It has been reported that standing tickets will go for around £75, and seated tickets price point ranges from £54 to £105.
Will Foo Fighters be playing Download festival in 2024?
It’s possible. Eagle-eyed fans have noted that there’s a gap in the touring schedule that could accommodate the Saturday night at the UK’s major rock and metal music festival.
Could 2024 be the year Foo Fighters make their debut headline set at Donington? Watch this space.
NASCAR fans this weekend can expect dangerous crashes at the Chicago Street Race course. NASCAR drivers crash more than 200 times a year.
But there’s also an unseen danger of excessively loud engine noise, which hearing experts say poses a serious risk to people’s hearing.
NASCAR spectators should wear ear protection to avoid hearing loss, hearing experts say.
“If you wear protection, you’re taking a very effective step to prevent harm to your ears,” said Mike Hefferly, director of Rush University Medical Center’s audiology clinic.
At most NASCAR races, spectators are exposed to at least 95 decibels of noise, studies show.
At that level, people could suffer hearing damage after 30 minutes, according to recommendations from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
NASCAR says it’s employing mufflers in Chicago that cut engine noise by up to 10 decibels. But there’s still a risk for hearing damage.
“We do have data that suggests spectators are at risk,” Hefferly said, “but there’s so many other variables, when you run this in an urban environment, that we really can’t account for.”
Spectators at NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race should use earplugs to protect themselves from hearing damage, experts say.
Some parts of the street course will be louder than others. Open areas in Grant Park will disperse the sound, but levels could be higher where sounds are reflected off tall buildings, such as along Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road, Hefferly said.
NASCAR officials says they are not sure how loud their cars will be in Chicago, so it’s unclear how far the sound will carry.
NASCAR recommends spectators use ear protection, especially children. Several vendors at the street race will be selling ear protection.
Tips from a hearing specialist:
Disposable foam earplugs are a cost-effective way to protect hearing, if used properly, Hefferly said. Noise-reduction headphones also work. Look for ear protection with a noise reduction rating of at least 21 to 25 decibels.
Noise-canceling headphones will not provide enough protection, Hefferly says.
Spectators can lower their risk of hearing damage by taking breaks from the race.
“If it sounds too loud, it probably is,” Hefferly said. “If you must shout to be heard by someone next to you, then it’s probably too loud.”
Children are not necessarily at greater risk of hearing damage than adults, but the consequences could be worse for children who rely on hearing for language development and learning, he said.
A full map of the NASCAR layout in Grant Park.
How NASCAR is addressing noise
NASCAR said it would fit cars with mufflers for the second time in the racing franchise’s 75-year history in response to concerns about the potential for excessive noise.
Mufflers were used this year at NASCAR’s race at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum.
“We saw some reductions [in noise level] at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum,” NASCAR Chicago Street Course President Julie Giese said this month. “We’ll be obviously paying close attention to what that sounds like here.”
NASCAR said it’s taking an additional step to lower noise by limiting drivers’ time on the track to 10 hours over the whole race weekend. Practice time has been limited to one hour on Saturday before qualifying. Drivers have been practicing on simulators.
The CDC says people will damage their hearing when exposed to 100 decibels of sounds for 15 minutes.
That’s a change from typical NASCAR races, where drivers are on the track “essentially as much as there’s daylight,” Giese said this month.
“We’re really trying to be mindful of the location,” she said. “That’s a product of us trying to be mindful and thoughtful around … the fact that we are racing downtown.”
Neighbors’ concerns
Some residents who live near Grant Park are worried about the noise. The park regularly hosts music festivals, like Lollapalooza and Sueños, which have brought their share of noise complaints.
Jim Murray lives just west of the park, on Monroe Street. He said he usually leaves town during Lollapalooza to avoid the noise, but he’s staying for NASCAR.
He’s skeptical about race organizers’ assurances that mufflers will be enough.
“They say that the cars will have mufflers and will sound like a motorcycle,” Murray said. “But they are probably not talking about a Honda, more like a Harley with an illegally modified muffler.”
Nearby museums voiced concerns about excessive noise and vibrations after former Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced NASCAR would hold races in Chicago for three years.
The Art Institute of Chicago, which sits next to the track on Jackson Boulevard, consulted sound and vibration specialists before it determined the race wouldn’t affect its facility, a spokesperson told the Sun-Times.
Noise concerns at the Shedd Aquarium, just south of the course, were allayed after NASCAR vowed to use mufflers, saying in a statement it did not expect “negative noise or vibration impacts on our facility or to our animals.”
Hefferly specializes in treating patients with hearing loss and tinnitus, or ringing of the ears, who tend to be more sensitive to loud sounds.
“One strategy to keep them from being exposed to that, and causing distress, is to avoid situations,” he said. “So they don’t go to a NASCAR event for that reason. But now we’re bringing this NASCAR race to them.”
Oh my god. The big day is finally almost here. Beyoncé is bringing the Renaissance World Tour to Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field on Wednesday, July 12.
After months of rave reviews overseas about the tour, we finally get to see it for ourselves. In fact, the Philly show actually kicks off the United States leg of the tour. We cannot wait!
From setlists to parking to opening acts, we put together a list of EVERYTHING you need to know ahead of the show right here:
What Time Is Beyoncé’s Philadelphia Concert?
The “show” starts at 7 pm, but gates will likely open around 4:30 or 5 pm. Once we have that information confirmed we’ll share that here.
Is There An Opening Act for Beyoncé in Philadelphia?
There is no opening act on the Renaissance Tour, but the house music plays before the show to pump up the crowd.
Beyonce “The Formation World Tour” – Opening Night In Miami
Getty Images
What Time Will Beyoncé Perform in Philadelphia?
We don’t have the exact set times for this concert yet.
But per our best guesstimates, it’s likely that Queen Bey will hit the stage around 8:20 pm. We’ve asked our sources for more information about this, and we’ll share it right here as soon as we confirm it.
Production times are always subject to change, of course. So don’t wait to arrive.
Are Tickets Still Available for Beyoncé’s Philly Concert? & How Can I get Last-minute Beyoncé tickets in Philadelphia?
Tickets are currently sold out directly from Ticketmaster.com. However, Ticketmaster has been known to drop last-minute tickets. Nothing is a guarantee, but you can always check back by clicking here.
Yes, resale tickets are available for resale on sites Stubhub. It’ll certainly cost you.
As of Tuesday, June 27, it looks like there are some tickets available for about $300-$350. Floor seats are going for well over $1,000 so far.
Of course, all of that is subject to change as the market fluctuates in the coming days.
2018 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival – Weekend 1 – Day 2
Getty Images for Coachella
What Time do the Parking Lots Open for the Beyoncé Concert at the Linc? & How Much Does Parking Cost for the Beyoncé Concert at Lincoln Financial Field?
Parking info will be shared here as soon as we have it back from our contacts at Lincoln Financial Field. However, it’s expected that lots will open in the middle of the afternoon.
Parking is $35 for cars and $70 for oversized vehicles. Unsure where to park? All parking lots in the stadium complex are open for the show so you’ll have no problem finding a spot.
In fact, we’ve got a map posted for you here. Lots A-M are closest to the field.
Lincoln Financial Field
Lincoln Financial Field
Remember, these are CASHLESS payments only at the Linc, so you need to use your digital payment (or a credit card).
What is the Bag Policy at Lincoln Financial Field for the Beyoncé Concert 2023?
The venue will follow the NFL Clear Bag policy. Bags cannot exceed 12″x6″x12″ and must be clear, per the venue’s policies.
Click here to read more about the bag policies at Lincoln Financial Field.
What Is the Setlist for Beyoncé’s Philadelphia Concert?
We’ll post Beyonce’s expected setlist shortly. Check back for more info.
Are Umbrellas Allowed Inside Lincoln Financial Field for the Beyoncé Concert?
Umbrellas are NOT allowed in the venue. If rain is forecasted at all, you’ll want to pack a poncho or raincoat.
More prohibited items can be found on the Linc’s official website.
2018 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival – Weekend 1 – Day 2
Getty Images for Coachella
Are Portable Phone Chargers Allowed in Lincoln Financial Field for the Beyoncé Concert?
Small portable phone chargers are permitted, but stadium officials say they must be no larger than the size of your cell phone.
Is there Additional SEPTA Service for the Beyoncé Concert?
SEPTA has been offering increased service for events held in the sporting complex this year. The exact schedule is usually announced a few days before the show. We’ll add that information here as soon as we hear it.
These are the Hottest Pop Concerts Happening in Philadelphia in 2023
2023 will bring some of the best concerts from some of our absolute favorite artists to Philadelphia (including Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran and P!Nk.). Here’s a COMPLETE list of all of the shows (so far) & even details on how you can get tickets to Philadelphia’s hottest concerts of 202
Most festivals today are designed to make money, plain and simple. Despite being marketed as a music festival, it’s a misleading and glorified concert event. Don’t be fooled – it’s not about music, and it’s not about fostering a sense of community through camping for several days straight.
The festival season has undoubtedly become an integral part of the concert season, with multi-act events being referred to as music festivals. However, the prices for such events charged by promoters are often exorbitant, despite the fact that they typically feature acts that are accustomed to performing in much smaller venues.
While the Fyre Festival was one of the most disastrous events of its kind, there have been other scams throughout the summer concert season, including those that take place outdoors on the East Coast. In addition to these concerns, the weather can also pose a significant risk to outdoor events held on unsheltered beach sites or in other unenclosed areas.
While offering added value is a great way to attract attendees to a festival, a true music festival is a multi-day and all-night event that typically features camping facilities on site. This enables festival-goers to enjoy a truly immersive experience and fully embrace the atmosphere of the event.
For instance, at the Sea.Hear.Now Music festival every year is referred to as a music and arts festival. Sea.Hear.Now is not only a glorified Live Nation concert event, it’s also actually promoted by Live Nation for all intents and purposes. The so-called promoter of this event has links on its one-page website to the Live Nation site. One could ascertain that this event is trying to masquerade as a colorful and innovative festival when, again, it is merely a two-day concert with multiple acts on the bill.
The Sea.Hear.Now Music festival includes a Surfing Exhibition off the Jersey shore, despite it not being known for big waves. However, New Jersey does have good waves at certain times of the year. In addition to the music and arts aspect of the festival, the organizers display their Photo Art, which may be available for purchase, and the main exhibit is an entryway of surfboards. The festival is only two days long and features multiple acts on the bill. It may be trying to present itself as an innovative festival, but in reality, it is simply a concert with added artistic elements in the sense there are multiple acts booked each day.
As for the bookings, most of the acts that are booked at this particular festival play the club circuit, while the headliners play casinos, and arenas on their own tour. Indeed, it has brought some odd collaborations, such as Social Distortion playing with Bruce Springsteen. It was odd, in part because the music did not mesh, which should be or could be an element of these events. They are not true festivals; they are concerts with multiple acts on each bill, along with a headliner or two. There are no camping grounds on the site or anywhere near the Sea.Hear.Now Music and Arts Festival. The food is from local restaurants and whatever gets served inside the venue is most likely generic Live Nation types of food stands.
It has been noted that a significant issue highlighted by reviews and survey responses is the high price of refreshments, including beer and water, which has attracted complaints from 37.5% of respondents of the Sea.Hear.Now event. Despite some respondents remaining neutral, a large percentage of complaints revolves around poor customer service. Additionally, a lack of space and limited food options have been described in one review, which stated that the event was crowded, and it was difficult to see the main bands. Ensuring adequate space and food options, as well as offering high-quality customer service, could go a long way in addressing these concerns.
According to a recent article in Variety Magazine, it has been reported that sales for VIP tickets for the recent festival were strong, outselling standard admission tickets. While the overall attendance may have been slightly lower than in previous years, VIP wristbands for the event sold out, resulting in a high demand for access to the premium areas. At times, capacity on the side stage reached its limit, which required VIP and Platinum wristband holders to wait their turn to access this area. The Festival was produced by the team behind Lollapalooza, along with Photo Artist Danny Clinch, and also Tim Donnnelly. It is worth noting that C3 Presents, the production company behind the event, is a part of Live Nation. For more information on the festival and production company, please refer to Live Nation’s website which is linked from their website page.
This is a Live Nation event (in disguise) that features various acts. However, for those seeking a more personal and acoustically optimal experience, there are smaller venues available that cater to a lesser audience compared to this larger affair where you can see everyone of these acts.
In 2016, the music critics of the prestigious New York Times made the decision to discontinue their coverage of music festivals due to their perceived increase in size and lack of diversity. As reported by Hazel Cills of Jezebel in 2017, Chance the Rapper was slated to perform at 14 music festivals. This fact was put forth as one of the potential reasons for the cancellation of several high-cost music festivals which failed to generate revenue. This included a couple of events Chance the Rapper was set to headline, causing them to declare bankruptcy as a result of poor ticket sales.
The emergence of music festivals is not only beneficial for the entertainment industry but also contributes to the development of communities, towns, and regions. In 2017, Hazel Cills of Jezebel reported on the growing trend of music festivals appearing in former boomtowns across the US. In El Dorado, Arkansas, the city invested $100 million to refurbish an old car showroom into a music hall and to build a new, 8,000-capacity theater. The aim was to position as a fledgling cultural center, joining the ranks of other cities across the country like Marfa, Texas and Woodstock, New York. Similar revitalization efforts were on the rise in Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Missouri, and elsewhere. St. Louis’s Murmuration Festival, unfortunately, lasted just one year due to insufficient staffing and ticket sales. The primary coordinator cited that perhaps starting on a smaller scale would have been the wiser option.
According to Cills, the trend of young people flocking to larger, expensive cities such as New York is coming to an end. With the increasing frustration of high rent and lack of job opportunities, smaller cities have the chance to appeal to these urban expats. By hosting popular artists like Migos and The Chainsmokers within the city center, there are branding and economic advantages that can be gained. In fact, a previous study showed that the first ten years of Coachella brought in $254 million to the desert area around Indio, California and $90 million to the city. Hosting events of this type can draw in a younger, more diverse crowd, and can potentially boost the local economy.
The Karoondinha Festival, which was planned to be held in Pennsylvania caves, had been canceled due to low ticket sales. The organizers confirmed the news and admitted that they had high aspirations for such a new festival, but due to insufficient ticket sales, they had decided to call it off precisely a month before the event.
The Fyre Festival was a highly anticipated event that unfortunately did not meet expectations. Attendees were disappointed by the lack of organization and failure on the part of the organizers to deliver on their promises. Despite the beautiful location on an adjacent island to Sandals, the absence of any staff on site was concerning. In addition to the soggy disaster-relief tents and low-quality cafeteria-level food, the lack of entertainment left much to be desired. The absence of expected music artists, including Blink 182, was a major letdown for those in attendance. The conditions and general disorganization made the event frustrating and disappointing for all involved.
Woodstock ’99 was a three-day music festival that took place in Rome, New York, from July 23 to 25, 1999. It was organized as a celebration of the 30th anniversary of the original Woodstock festival, which had taken place in 1969 in Bethel, New York. The festival featured a diverse lineup of artists from various genres, including rock, rap, and electronic music. Headliners included Metallica, Rage Against the Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and many more.
Despite being billed as a peaceful and positive event, Woodstock ’99 became infamous for its numerous incidents of violence, property damage, and sexual assault. The extreme heat, lack of adequate facilities, and high prices for basic necessities like water contributed to the festival’s chaotic atmosphere. In the end, over 400 people were arrested and there were reports of widespread theft and destruction of property. Despite its problems, Woodstock ’99 remains a significant cultural event and a controversial moment in music festival history.
On the other hand, there are numerous live promoters and live productions worldwide that are renowned for their outstanding production value, remarkable stagecraft, and impeccable organization. For example, Tomorrowland, a world-renowned company, consistently delivers exceptional live productions. Similarly, the Lockin Music festival offers an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking setting and non-stop great music. The Live Promoters at Coachella deserve special mention for their exceptional job in creating an interactive, colorful, and enjoyable environment at the venue. Notable live music events such as Phish’s music festivals, which created a makeshift post office on-site, are a testament to their unique and creative endeavors. In conclusion, these events and productions are setting a high bar for live music experiences across the globe, and we look forward to seeing even more exceptional events in the future.
The LOCKN’ Festival, previously known as Interlocken Music Festival, is a four-day event dedicated to music festivals that yields impressive profits year after year. The festival is hosted at Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, Virginia and features an array of jam bands and other music improvisation acts. Throughout the event, there is never a dull moment with structured music that lasts late into the night or early mornings. One of the unique features of the festival is its revolving stage, which allows bands to transition seamlessly without any disruptions. The festival grounds boast of ample greenery and open space, offering a relaxing atmosphere for attendees. The festival also offers VIP experiences suitable for clients looking for a special treat. Despite challenges such as adverse weather conditions, the LOCKN’ festival remains one of the best music festivals that excel mainly due to their emphasis on the music itself.
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, also known as Coachella Festival, is a highly anticipated annual event that takes place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. The festival boasts an impressive array of music genres, which include indie, alternative, rock, hip-hop, and electronic dance music. It features performances from the biggest names in the music industry, as well as up-and-coming artists, making it a must-attend event for festival enthusiasts. In addition to its diverse and impressive lineup, Coachella has also been credited with bringing more than $250 million to the area around Indio, California. As a result, it is highly regarded by live promoters and producers.
The traditional role of labels as marketing and development machines has transformed with the advent of new technologies and avenues for revenue. Live concerts have therefore become a prominent source of income for artists, with North American concert revenues having tripled between 1999 and 2009 to a peak of $4.6 billion. Today, the global Live Music market size is projected to grow from US$ 10620 million (58.6bn) in 2022 to US$ 15390 million in 2029; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2023 to 2029. Therefore, despite the loss of 50% in U.S. recorded music sales since 1999, the growing trend of streaming music and payment for plays is starting to gain momentum as a viable source of income. As industry professionals, it is important to be aware of these trends and to adapt to the evolving landscape to achieve lasting success. Playing live today is a great way for music artists to make money.
Biasha Mitchell, Eventbrite’s Head of Global Music Festival Strategy, cites recent Nielsen data that shows close to a quarter of Americans attend at least one music festival annually. Mitchell emphasizes that the festival industry is not completely without risk, even though every metropolitan area has at least one festival and some small towns have their own as well. She notes that the industry is vulnerable to the unpredictable climate, adding that “producing an outdoor event at the mercy of the elements” is a challenging task. Mitchell points out that one significant weather event could lead to failure. Overall, it is important for organizers to assess and mitigate potential risks while providing attendees with an enjoyable and safe experience.
Successful music festivals can sometimes fall short of expectations. An example of such an event occurred recently at the well-established Governors Ball festival in New York City. Due to an impending storm, the festival was postponed until 6:30 PM, which was long after the scheduled start time. Later that same day, amidst impending weather, event organisers cancelled the rest of the day, and festival-goers began to react poorly with glass-throwing and destruction of a plexiglass sculpture. A new feature of the Tinder app drew some festival-goers together, but due to the storm, connections could not be pursued. Despite the event’s setbacks, Mitchell, an industry expert, says that festivals that purchase good cancellation insurance and secure funding from patient investors tend to fare better. The fact that Governor Ball festival is financially sound is a testament to its success.
According to industry veteran Mitchell, a trend has emerged where individuals without consideration of the extensive work, time and resources required to build an impactful festival from scratch, decide to organize their own events. Unfortunately, this can result in disappointing outcomes for attendees who expect an exceptional experience. Today’s festivalgoers demand more than just a mere social gathering with limited brand activations and they undoubtedly require more than photo opportunities with shallow backdrops and ball pits. The failures of other festivals like Fyre Festival are a reminder that careful planning and consideration must be put on multiple elements like weather systems and bathrooms in order to succeed. While not all event organizers are likely to scam their attendees, a lack of expertise in the festival business is a significant risk factor for failures in the industry.
Event organizers, such as the promoters of Sea.Hear.Now, have chosen to work with Live Nation to handle the production of their events rather than invest the significant effort it takes to create one’s own unique brand and style. As a result, ticket prices, merchandise, and food are high. While there are four different ticket levels available for purchase, this is not a scam, but rather a potential conflict of interests. Unfortunately, some promoters may hold back the sale of lower-priced tickets and only offer more expensive VIP options. The Ultimate VIP option, for example, includes lodging in the area and costs $8,999. It is important to note that there is no camping available at this Music & Arts Festival. As mentioned, the art featured at the event is presumably for sale by the event organizer, and an entryway made of surfboards greets attendees. That’s about it as far as stage craft and production goes.
One aspect of music festivals that can be challenging for attendees is the presence of multiple stages with numerous acts booked. To get the most value out of your festival experience, it’s important to consider the schedule and ensure that there is no overlap of music playing on each stage. This can impact the cost effectiveness of your ticket, as it may be impossible to see all of the artists you are interested in if they are scheduled to play at the same time. Additionally, frequent walking between stages can detract from the overall music-focused atmosphere of the event. For example, at Sea.Hear.Now, fans may need to prioritize which artists they want to see live, rather than attempting to catch every act. Effective planning and a focus on the music can help festival-goers make the most of their experience.
Live Nation and certain events, such as Sea.Hear.Now, follow a protocol to cover costs and maximize profits. While some may question the pricing of food and beverage items, it is not considered a scam. Live Nation has a legal obligation to operate in a manner that generates the highest revenue with the greatest profit margins through various means, such as strategic pricing. This approach is not unique to Live Nation and is a standard business practice in many industries. Therefore, it is essential for anyone working with Live Nation to strictly adhere to their legal guidelines and principles.
However, the priority should be to keep the focus on quality music and providing an unforgettable experience for music lovers. It’s important to consider the financial aspects of the event, however, the emphasis should not be solely on making profits. We believe that music festivals should be accessible to everyone, and we strive to maintain reasonable prices while operating our business with integrity. We understand the concerns regarding the pricing strategies of other event organizers, but we are committed to conducting our business ethically and in a manner that values concert goes and patrons. The goal is to provide an exceptional entertainment experience without compromising the quality or breaking the bank.
The 50th anniversary Woodstock Festival has been experiencing some financial and organizational challenges. It has been reported that funds may have been misappropriated by former investors, or that the festival was overcommitted to expensive headliners without the necessary financial reserves. There are also rumors of issues with health department clearances, but clarity on this matter is yet to be confirmed. In 2018, LA’s FYF Fest was cancelled due to low ticket sales after announcing Janet Jackson and Future. The XX cancelled their 2017 festival in Iceland due to environmental concerns when the intended location was identified as an endangered area. We understand that these situations can be difficult, but it is important to focus on the safety and welfare of all involved.
CMJ, a leading college radio and media company, unfortunately did not continue its indie music festival in New York City after successfully hosting it for 35 years. The proceedings that followed in 2016 resulted in multiple legal battles, one of which included allegations against the company’s CEO, Adam Klein, for withholding $500,000 worth of wages and unreimbursed expenses from his employees. This unfortunate event casts doubt on the financial and operational decisions of the organization, as well as its management under the leadership of Mr. Klein. It is a reminder that companies must uphold ethical and legal policies in their operations to avoid potential repercussions that can tarnish their reputation and affect their stakeholders.
In May, there were reports about accusations against Northside Festival’s CEO and co-founder, Daniel Stedman, by former employees and freelancers stating that their wages or contract fees were being withheld. While Mr. Stedman did not show up at small claims court hearings and refused to respond to certified mail demanding payment, one artist who painted a mural at Northside Festival in 2018 was owed $1,200 and commented, “Danny has taken ghosting to a whole new level and proven he’s a con artist. It’s unfortunate that the company has reportedly ceased operations.” The situation is regrettable for everyone involved.
During Northside’s challenging times, an individual named Daniel Spence made an offer to become CEO and provide millions of dollars to salvage the situation. However, as investigations took place, he was arrested on multiple charges of theft and embezzlement by Tennessee police. The individual was recently profiled in the Observer as “The Grindr Grifter,” with one of his victim’s fathers describing him as a “modern day master scam artist.” Although Stedman initially prepared to sign the paperwork with Spence, swift action was taken to prevent any further concerns within the company.
South By Southwest is one of the most popular festival/conference events in the United States. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about their labor practices. The festival relies on thousands of “volunteers” and “interns” who work for free every year at an event that sells tickets in the four figures. The legality of such practice has been questioned by industry analysts, and a potential class-action lawsuit is a looming possibility. Additionally, playing at SXSW is notoriously unprofitable for artists. While it used to be an A&R Showcase, it’s not as necessary for A&R representatives and scouts to attend the festival as many top-performing acts have already secured major recording deals. Despite these concerns, South By Southwest remains one of the largest cultural events in the United States and attracts many visitors each year.
The XO Music Festival, originally scheduled to take place in Antioch, California, was unfortunately cancelled just days prior to its anticipated start date. While it was meant to host 100 artists, a foam pit, and an indoor skating rink, several artists had dropped out due to missed payments while others expressed concerns about the festival’s planning and legal ramifications due to its name’s similarity to another festival. The venue ultimately withdrew from the event, citing breach of contractual obligations by the organizers. These issues were further compounded by the February arrest of XO promoter Sabi Habib, who was charged with 40 felonies related to illegally leasing high-end real estate in the Bay Area. Despite XO Music Festival’s Instagram statement refuting false reports, the event was cancelled. As professionals, we offer sympathy to those affected and emphasize the importance of addressing all contractual obligations to ensure successful events.
Live music festivals are an undeniably powerful tool for bringing people from different walks of life together. With their unique ability to unite people through shared love of music, these gatherings create a harmonious environment where attendees can celebrate diversity and build strong connections with one another. It is important for organizers to prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere, where everyone feels free to discover new artists, savor the delights of diverse cuisines, and learn about different cultures. The quality of the music acts should also be a top priority, with a focus on ensuring that every performance contributes to the overall sense of unity and cohesion. While generating revenue is important, it is not the ultimate goal. Instead, organizers should strive to create an inclusive and engaging experience that fosters a sense of community, enriching people’s lives long after the festival has ended.
