An eclectic program of summer concerts returns to the Weehawken waterfront as the Hudson Riverfront Performing Arts Center, Inc. (HRPAC) presents Summer Concerts on the Hudson 2014, beginning Wednesday, June 25 at 7 p.m. This series of free Wednesday evening concerts will feature top artists from many different genres, including Big Band, World, Jazz, Latin, Rock, &B, Funk, Soul, and more.
“For over 10 years, Summer Concerts on the Hudson has presented world class artists to an ever-expanding and appreciative audience,” said Bruce Sherman, HRPAC’s executive director. “We are excited to present a very diverse lineup of shows featuring exceptional talent. We even have a Grammy Award winner who was one of the stars of this year’s Academy Award-winning documentary film, ‘20 Feet From Stardom.’ It should be another fantastic season, worthy of the magnificent Lincoln Harbor Park setting. It’s a truly memorable experience to see and hear great music framed against the backdrop of the spellbinding Manhattan skyline.”
The public is requested to bring a lawn chair or blanket and encouraged to pack a picnic and enjoy the pastoral setting of Lincoln Harbor Park.
The concerts are sponsored in part by The Hudson Reporter.
Summer Concerts on the Hudson 2014 lineup:
June 25 – Kenny Brawner is Ray Charles. This brand new concert/theater work brings the music and story of the great Ray Charles to vivid life. It stars pianist/vocalist/actor Kenny Brawner with the rockin’ Brawner Brothers 12-piece band and three sultry singers (a la The Raelettes). Fans will be treated to many beloved hits like “Georgia On My Mind,” “Doin’ the Mess Around,” and “I Got a Woman,” in an unforgettable tribute to the one-and-only American legend, Ray Charles. Jeremy Beck and the Heavy Duty Horns, playing Soul, Blues and Funk, will open at 6 p.m.
July 16 –The Edmar Castaneda World Music Band. Renowned harpist Edmar Castenada has mesmerized audiences worldwide with his talent. This concert will mark the debut of his new World Music band, featuring musicians from South America and Africa.
July 30 – Django Festival All-Stars. This internationally acclaimed group plays the hot Gypsy jazz made famous by legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt. See them directly before their debut appearance at the Newport Jazz Festival. With special guest, vocalist Jazzmeia Horn.
Aug. 13 – West Point Jazz Knights. Well known for their mix of Big Band, American Songbook, and popular repertoire, the Jazz Knights have collaborated with many legends over the year. Featuring noted singer Alexis Cole. Special guest will be Grammy nominated vibraphone
virtuoso Stefon Harris.
Aug. 27 – Lisa Fischer & Grand Baton. Grammy-winning vocalist Lisa Fischer is famous to Rolling Stones fans worldwide for her amazing voice and work with Mick Jagger on the iconic song, “Gimme Shelter.” She recently starred in this year’s Academy Award-winning documentary film, “20 Feet From Stardom.”
All performances take place at Lincoln Harbor Park and begin at 7 p.m. Rain dates, if necessary, will occur the following night after each scheduled performance.
For more information, directions, and late breaking concert news and updates, please check the HRPAC website (www.hrpac.org) or call (201) 716-4540.