This year’s PrideFest Milwaukee was a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring an impressive lineup of performers that brought joy and excitement to attendees from all walks of life.
This year’s festival kicked off with a bang on Thursday, June 6, with a dazzling drag showcase on the SKYYLine Mainstage. The show featured stars from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” including Alaska, Violet Chachki, and Envy Peru, alongside “American Idol” alum Ada Vox. The energy was electric, setting a high bar for the performances to follow.
Friday night saw “American Idol” favorite David Archuleta and rising country star Dixon Dallas take the stage, captivating the audience with their heartfelt performances. Archuleta’s set, filled with his soulful hits, was a highlight, drawing a large crowd and leaving fans cheering for more.
Saturday brought an eclectic mix of acts to the festival. The evening featured a powerful performance by rapper Cupcakke. The grand finale saw the dynamic duo Icona Pop energize the crowd with their infectious dance-pop tunes, followed by a soulful and nostalgic performance by R&B legend Mya. Their performances brought the festival to a rousing close, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories.
PrideFest Milwaukee is known not only for its musical acts but also for its wide range of activities and attractions. This year, the festival included a health and wellness area, a vibrant marketplace with numerous vendors, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Children’s Stage and the Stonewall Stage & History Exhibit provided family-friendly entertainment and educational content, making the event inclusive and enjoyable for all ages.
Overall, PrideFest Milwaukee 2024 was a resounding success, filled with music, love, and pride. The festival continues to be a beacon of inclusivity and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community in Wisconsin and beyond.
Perhaps the biggest rising star in pop today, singer Chappell Roan brought her massive headlining “Midwest Princess Tour” to The Sylvee in Madison, WI. The Sylvee hosted an engaged sold-out crowd as Roan performed the entirety of her debut album and absolutely blew fans away with her infectious stage presence.
With one of the most exciting names in music in town, we had to catch the performance to capture some of our favorite moments from the memorable evening. If you missed out on last night’s show, Roan will be at Chicago’s Lollapalooza for what will certainly be a can’t miss performance.
Check out our photos of last night’s performance below.
Billie Eilish performing at Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI on July 6, 2019. (Photo by Dan Garcia)
Billie Eilish has once again proven her dominance in the music industry with the release of her third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft. With an astounding 339,000 units sold in the first week, Eilish has surpassed her previous record set by her 2019 album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?, cementing this as the biggest debut of her career.
The album, which has garnered critical acclaim from numerous prestigious outlets, boasts over 500 million global streams to date and has achieved the number one spot in 14 countries. Additionally, Hit Me Hard and Soft is the number one album on Apple Music, showcasing Eilish’s continued global appeal and influence.
The album’s success is bolstered by its leading single “Lunch,” which remains the most-streamed song globally on Spotify’s Global Chart. It has also claimed the title of the most-added song on U.S. radio, reaching over 20 million listeners across multiple formats. The official music video for “Lunch,” directed by Eilish herself, set a record as the biggest debut for a solo song on YouTube this year.
Critics have been effusive in their praise for Hit Me Hard and Soft. NPR describes it as “a delicate masterpiece,” while Rolling Stone hails it as “Eilish’s Best Album Yet.” The Telegraph and Evening Standard both awarded the album five stars, calling it a “heartbreak masterpiece” and “Album of the Year,” respectively. The Associated Press highlights Eilish’s unique ability to continuously rewrite the rules of pop music, dubbing her a “once-in-a-generation pop performer.”
In a heartfelt message to her fans, Billie Eilish, along with her brother and collaborator Finneas, expressed immense gratitude: “Thank you, guys, so much for all of your support on this album. This week has been so surreal and insane, and we truly could not be more overwhelmed with joy. Love you all until we die. Thank you for everything. Forever.”
Fans will soon have the opportunity to experience Eilish’s new music live. The Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour kicks off its North American leg on September 29 in Québec, QC, and includes multiple dates in major cities like Toronto, New York, and Los Angeles. The tour will continue in Europe and Australia in 2025. To ensure that fans, not scalpers, get the best chance to purchase tickets at face value, Eilish’s team has partnered with Ticketmaster’s Face Value Exchange for most North American dates.
Since her breakout with “Ocean Eyes” in 2015, Eilish has achieved unparalleled success. At the 62nd GRAMMY® Awards, she made history as the youngest artist to win in all the major categories, including Best New Artist and Album of the Year. Her James Bond theme, “No Time To Die,” won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. In 2023, she added to her accolades with the song “What Was I Made For?” from the Barbie movie, earning both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe.
Louisville’s Gazebo Festival, a highly anticipated event featuring local sensation Jack Harlow, faced an unexpected disruption due to severe weather conditions. The festival, which had promised to be a highlight of the city’s music scene, saw its schedule thrown into chaos as storms rolled in, forcing organizers to cancel the Day 2 performances.
The festival, a celebration of music and community, had drawn significant attention, with fans eagerly awaiting Harlow’s set. The rapper, known for his rapid rise to fame and chart-topping hits, was expected to deliver a memorable performance in his hometown. However, the severe weather warnings that emerged necessitated immediate action to ensure the safety of all attendees and performers.
As the storm clouds gathered, festival organizers faced the difficult decision of cancelling the show. The safety of the audience was paramount. Fans, many of whom had traveled from far and wide, were understandably disappointed, yet the community’s response highlighted a collective understanding of the importance of safety.
In the wake of the delay, Jack Harlow expressed his disappointment and solidarity with his fans through social media, reassuring them that their safety was his top priority. His message was met with overwhelming support, reflecting the strong bond between the artist and his hometown audience.
In the end, the delay may add a layer of anticipation and excitement to Jack Harlow’s eventual performance.
Heart performs at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC on May 11, 2024 (Photo by Criss Cain).
Classic rock enthusiasts flocked to the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL last night to witness a evening of musical brilliance headlined by the legendary Heart. With the hometown ledges, Cheap Trick, opening the show, the stage was set for an unforgettable night of rock and roll. Fans eagerly filled the Chicagoland arena, their excitement palpable as they anticipated an evening of iconic hits and stellar performances.
Cheap Trick, with their roots firmly planted in Illinois, wasted no time igniting the crowd with their high-energy performance to kick off the performances. The band played a mix of their timeless hits like “I Want You to Want Me” and “Surrender,” seamlessly blending nostalgia with raw, live energy. Robin Zander’s vocals were as sharp, and Rick Nielsen’s guitar antics kept the audience on their toes. Their set was a perfect appetizer, leaving the crowd buzzing with anticipation for the main act.
As the lights dimmed and Peter Gabriel’s “The Feeling Begins” filled the arena while images of pop culture from the past few decades were projected for the audience, reminding fans just how long Heart has been a household name in music, Ann and Nancy Wilson took the stage, instantly commanding attention. The sisters, who have been the heart and soul of the band since its inception, delivered a performance that was nothing short of spectacular from the sets opener, “Bebe Le Strange” to the show’s encore. Ann Wilson’s powerhouse vocals were a force to be reckoned with. From the hauntingly beautiful “Alone”, which perflectly blended into their performance of “What About Love” to the fiery “Barracuda,” her voice soared effortlessly, filling every corner of the arena. Nancy Wilson’s guitar work was equally impressive, her riffs and solos adding a raw edge to the evening’s performance.
The setlist was a carefully curated mix of Heart’s greatest hits, fan favorites, and deeper cuts that showcased the band’s musical range. “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You” had the audience singing along, while the symbolic “Dog & Butterfly” brought a quieter, reflective moment to the night. “These Dreams” highlighted Nancy’s ethereal vocals, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that had the crowd swaying in unison. The powerful “Love Alive” was another standout, with its intricate intro leading into Ann Wilson’s flute performance that sent chills down the spine.
One of the surprise highlights of the evening was the band’s acoustic rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “Going To California” Heart’s covers of Zeppelin have become a fan favorite throughout the years and last night was no exception. Ann’s vocals brought a new depth to the song, leaving the audience in awe.
Not to be overlooked, the production quality of the concert was top-notch. The sound was crisp and clear, allowing every note and lyric to be heard with precision. The band’s chemistry was palpable, their decades of performing together translating into a seamless and engaging live show.
Throughout the night, Heart’s connection with their audience was undeniable. The band took moments between songs to express gratitude to their long-time fans, creating an intimate atmosphere despite the arena setting.
As the concert drew to a close with the powerful “Barracuda,” the energy in the arena was electric. Heart had delivered a masterclass in classic rock performance, proving that their music is as timeless as ever. The encore performance brought the night to a euphoric end, with Ann’s vocal acrobatics and Nancy’s frenetic guitar playing leaving the crowd wanting more.
Heart’s concert at the Allstate Arena was a triumphant return to form for the iconic band. Ann and Nancy Wilson showed that they are still at the top of their game, delivering a show that was both a trip down memory lane and a testament to their enduring talent. For the fans who were there, it was a night to remember, filled with the kind of musical magic that only Heart can create.
As the final notes echoed through the arena and the crowd erupted in applause, one thing was clear: Heart’s legacy in rock and roll is not just intact, but thriving!
Multi-platinum superstar Yung Gravy is set to hit the road for his most ambitious headline tour to date, the “Grits & Gravy” Tour 2024, produced by Live Nation. Kicking off on May 26 in Vancouver, BC, and wrapping up in his hometown of Minneapolis, MN, on November 29, the tour promises to be a vibrant mix of new country hits and classic trap anthems.
Yung Gravy, known for his unique blend of soul, oldies, and trap, is ready to embark on a journey across major markets in North America. The “Grits & Gravy” Tour 2024 will feature performances that blend his new country-inspired tracks with the fan-favorite hits that have made him a household name. This tour marks a significant evolution in his career, showcasing his versatility and ever-growing appeal.
The tour will kick off in Vancouver and make stops in cities including San Diego, New York, Brisbane, and Chicago before concluding with a massive hometown show in Minneapolis. Pre-sale tickets and VIP packages will be available starting Thursday, May 16 at 10:00 AM local time, with general ticket sales beginning on Friday, May 17 at 10:00 AM local time. Fans can sign up for early access to presale tickets at creamium.net.
Yung Gravy recently released his latest single and music video, “Clementine,” from his forthcoming album, Serving Country. Inspired by a stay at Zac Brown’s home in Georgia, Gravy created “Clementine” as a homage to his love for Southern women. This new track is just a taste of what fans can expect from the new album, blending his signature sound with fresh, country-inspired vibes.
In addition to the North American dates, Yung Gravy will also be performing at various festivals and international venues. Notable appearances include the Governors Ball Music Festival in New York, multiple dates in Australia and New Zealand with collaborator bbno$, and additional performances across state fairs and festivals throughout the summer and fall.
Tour Dates
May 26: Vancouver, BC — bb’s bonanza
Jun 07: Queens, NY — Governors Ball Music Festival
Jul 03: San Diego, CA — San Diego County Fair
Jul 05: West Fargo, ND — Red River Valley Fair
Jul 15: Auckland, NZ — Powerstation
Jul 17: Brisbane, AUS — The Fortitude Music Hall
Jul 19: Wayville, AUS — Spin Off Festival
Jul 20: West Melbourne, AUS — Festival Hall Melbourne
Jul 21: East Sydney, AUS — Hordern Pavilion
Jul 23: Perth, AUS — Centenary Warehouse
Aug 01: Klamath Falls, OR — Klamath County Fairgrounds
Aug 02: Redmond, OR — Deschutes County Fair
Aug 03: West Allis, WI — Wisconsin State Fair
Aug 21: Boise, ID — Western Idaho Fair
Aug 23: Moscow, ID — Country Summer Showdown
Aug 25: Seattle, WA — WAMU Theater @ Lumen Field
Aug 27: Salem, OR — Oregon State Fair
Aug 29: Salt Lake City, UT — The Lot at The Complex
Aug 30: Denver, CO — Fillmore Auditorium
Aug 31: Grand Island, NE — Nebraska State Fair
Sep 01: Waukee, IA — Vibrant Music Hall
Sep 03: Louisville, KY — The Louisville Palace
Sep 05: La Crosse, WI — La Crosse Center
Sep 06: Indianapolis, IN — Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park
Sep 07: Chicago, IL — East End at Navy Pier
Sep 10: Detroit, MI — The Fillmore Detroit
Sep 12: Boston, MA — MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Sep 13: Philadelphia, PA — The Fillmore Philadelphia
Sep 14: Charlotte, NC — Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
Sep 15: Charleston, SC — Firefly Distillery
Sep 17: Birmingham, AL — Avondale Brewing Company
Sep 18: Nashville, TN — Brooklyn Bowl (Early and Late Shows)
Sep 20: Atlanta, GA — Coca-Cola Roxy
Sep 21: Tampa, FL — Yuengling Center
Sep 23: Austin, TX — Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
Sep 24: San Antonio, TX — Boeing Center at Tech Port
Usher performs at the 2023 Lovers & Friends music festival in Las Vegas (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
The 2024 Lovers & Friends festival in Las Vegas, eagerly anticipated for its impressive lineup including Usher, Janet Jackson, and a host of other music giants, was abruptly canceled due to severe weather alerts. The festival was more than a music event; it was poised to be a cultural milestone with Usher celebrating the 20th anniversary of his album “Confessions” by performing it in full, and other artists ready to dazzle the crowd with nostalgic hits and new tunes. Unfortunately high wind projections forced organizers to cancel this year’s festival.
The cancellation was a disappointment to thousands of fans who had traveled and gathered to relive memories and create new ones, united by their love for the artists and their music. The event’s mix of genres and the significant anniversaries of iconic albums like “Confessions” and Lil Wayne’s “Tha Carter III” highlighted the enduring influence these albums have on music and culture. This blend of past and present in the festival’s lineup underscored its unique appeal, bridging generations of music lovers.
Let’s hope the festival can bounce back with better luck in 2025!
HOG Fest 2024, hosted at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, delivered an unforgettable experience that resonated with rock music enthusiasts. The festival’s headline act, Staind, marked a monumental return to Milwaukee with a powerful performance featuring both their classic hits and new tracks from their latest album, “Confessions of the Fallen.” Their set demonstrated a seasoned band still pushing the boundaries of their sound and engaging deeply with their fans.
Supporting Staind, I Prevail stepped up with a dynamic presence, captivating the audience with their energetic mix of metalcore and melodic choruses. Despite missing a key band member, their performance lost none of its intensity, including a memorable rock rendition of Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space.” Asking Alexandria, opening the festival, set the tone with their compelling blend of rock and electronic elements, ensuring the energy levels were high from the outset.
The venue itself, Fiserv Forum, proved to be a perfect setting for the festival. Its state-of-the-art acoustics and layout ensured that every note was heard perfectly and every seat offered a great view, enhancing the overall concert experience. The event’s organization was top-notch, with well-timed setlists that allowed each band to showcase their best, maintaining a smooth flow throughout the evening.
HOG Fest 2024 was a well-executed celebration of rock music, leaving attendees with lasting memories and a yearning for the next edition.
Check out our photos of last night’s performance below.
Rock and roll enthusiasts, get ready! The Rolling Stones are set to electrify the stage at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ next Tuesday, May 7. The highly anticipated concert is part of their massive “Hackney Diamonds Tour,” which marked their return to the road with their first new album in nearly two decades. The Arizona stop will be the second show of their tour, following a special appearance at New Orleans’ Jazz Fest.
Fans can expect a memorable night as Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood deliver a thrilling performance featuring a mix of their greatest hits and new tracks from their latest album, “Hackney Diamonds.” Their opening show last night in Houston set a high bar, treating fans to a two-hour set packed with classics.
Adding to the excitement, Mexican music sensation Carin León will warm up the crowd with his unique blend of traditional and modern sounds, making it a night of diverse musical talent.
State Farm Stadium, known for its dynamic atmosphere, will host the event. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the music kicking off at 8 p.m. Attendees should note the stadium’s clear bag policy and other standard entry requirements to ensure a smooth experience.
Tickets are available with a range of pricing options to accommodate every budget, from more accessible seats to premium spots close to the stage. To secure your tickets, visit SeatGeek.
This concert is not just a performance; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a lifelong Stones fan or a newcomer, this event promises to be a standout addition to the Valley’s entertainment calendar. Prepare for an evening filled with iconic music, spectacular performances, and the unmatched energy of The Rolling Stones!
Get ready, Glendale — the Stones are coming, and it’s going to be a rock and roll night to remember!
On a windy Friday night at the Windy City’s historic Riviera Theatre, a sold-out crowd of Chicago pop fans were treated to an evening of electrifying performances as singer Madison Beer took the stage for the second show of her 2024 “The Spinnin Tour.” The anticipation was palpable, further heightened by an impressive opening act from Charlotte Lawrence, who set the tone with a mix of her fan favorites, as well as a memorable cover and even a brand new unreleased track.
Beer, known for her creative prowess and deep involvement in her music production and visual presentations, lived up to her reputation. Touring in support of her latest album, 2023’s “Silence Between Songs”, Beer’s setlist was a comprehensive showcase of her catalog, with hits like “Reckless” and the tour’s namesake track “Spinnin” resonating with the audience. The album, which explores themes of growth and introspection through a blend of pop and R&B, has already made significant waves, with “Reckless” alone amassing over 400 million streams worldwide.
The night was filled with personal touches from Beer; she threw roses to the crowd during the performance of “17” and took moments between songs to engage with her fans, complimenting outfits and overall expressing her gratitude. This genuine interaction added a layer of intimacy to the show, making it feel uniquely personal for those in attendance. Her acknowledgment of the unexpected rain and appreciation for the fans’ patience as they waited outside only endeared her more to her audience.
Highlights of the evening included the live rendition of “Make You Mine,” a track that has climbed the charts, recently peaking at #6 on Billboard’s TikTok Viral 50 Chart, boosted by the release of its music video just days before the concert. Beer’s performance was both visually and acoustically captivating, with the singer’s vocal prowess on full display as she navigated the complex emotions and storytelling embedded in her songs.
Charlotte Lawrence, not to be overshadowed, provided a stellar start to the evening. Her set was a mix of the familiar and the new, with an exciting tease of unreleased material that promises great things to come from the Los Angeles native. Lawrence’s performance of “Boys Like You,” her popular 2023 single, was particularly well-received during her set.
In all, Madison Beer’s stop in Chicago was a testament to her growth as an artist and her ability to connect with fans on a personal level. The “The Spinnin Tour,” which kicked off just two days prior in Minneapolis, is set to be a monumental chapter in her career, showcasing not only her musical talents but her keen sense of showmanship and community-building with her fans.
For those interested in catching one of her shows or learning more about the tour, further details can be found through Beer’s official website.
SETLIST
Home to Another One
Good in Goodbye
Sweet Relief
Showed Me (How I Fell In Love With You)
17
I Wonder
Silence Between Songs
Dear Society
Nothing Matters but You
Envy the Leaves
Stained Glass
Homesick
Selfish
At Your Worst
Ryder
Dangerous
Reckless
Make You Mine
BOYSHIT
Baby
Follow the White Rabbit
Spinnin
King of Everything
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