The Overture is a rundown of live music and performances happening in and around Champaign-Urbana each week. All of the information is as accurate as we can publish; however, all shows and performances are subject to change at any time. Thank you for understanding.
Did we miss something this week? Have a show coming up you think we should know about? Email us at [email protected] with the details.
Monday, June 26th
Doty & Dexter
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5:30 p.m.
Come out to the Rose Bowl patio for a live performance by Doty & Dexter, featuring Stacy Doty, a versatile musician with over 50 years of performance experience, and Wendy Dexter, who is known for her harmonious vocals. Expect a wide variety of rock, country, and folk music from this duo who cherish meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends.
Tuesday, June 27th
EDITOR’S PICK: Sass
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Experience the soulful sounds of Sara ‘Sass’ Siders at the Rose Bowl Tavern on the Rose Bowl patio. Known for her captivating voice and diverse musical styles ranging from ska and reggae to rock and country, Sass’s performances promise a unique blend of genres, which she calls “Cali-country,” creating an unforgettable musical journey.
And so on for the remaining events in chronological order, with the correct formatting for dates, times, ticket prices, and venues. Please note that because my knowledge is cut off at September 2021, I may not have the correct day of the week for the dates provided in 2023. You will need to ensure that the dates align with the correct days of the week.
Wednesday, June 28th
Andrew Binder Trio
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Enjoy some jazz on the patio with the Andrew Binder Trio.
Urbana Neighborhood Nights: Mank and Sass with Uniting Pride at Victory Park
► Victory Park // free // 6:30 p.m.
Join your Urbana neighbors at Victory Park for Neighborhood Nights, where the Urbana Park District continues its 35-year tradition of showcasing top local musicians, this time featuring the dynamic Mank and Sass. Pack a picnic, get cozy with your chairs and blankets, and enjoy an evening of free music, complimentary popcorn and lemonade, engaging activities, community resources, and a chance to discuss your neighborhood with district officials.
Thursday, June 29th
Krannert Uncorked with The Merry Travelers
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // 5 p.m.
Join us for Krannert Uncorked with Merry Travelers on Stage 5, a perfect platform to appreciate local and regional artists. Immerse yourself in the band’s feel-good sound, influenced by soul, R&B, blues, and 70s psychedelic rock, creating a unique and mesmerizing vibe that will undoubtedly captivate you.
Americana Happy Hour ft Greg Klyma
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Enjoy Happy Hour at Rose Bowl Tavern with Greg Klyma, a seasoned artist inspired by the likes of Willie Nelson, Tom Petty, and AC/DC, delivering a fusion of old-school country and rock ‘n’ roll. Based in Boston, he’s back in the Midwest to promote his 17th album, “Singing For My Life.”
Friday, June 30th
EDITOR’S PICK: Everclear with Lit and Unchained
► Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater // $25 to $43 // 7 p.m.
90’s hitmakers Everclear and Lit come rocking into the area with more hits than a heavyweight boxing match. Everclear’s “Santa Monica” and Lit’s “My Own Worst Enemy” were 90’s smash-hit anthems about being young and taking your own path through life. Local act Unchained opens.
Uncle Lucius
► The Castle Theatre // $25 // 8 p.m.
Join us for an evening with Austin-based band Uncle Lucius, celebrated for their unique fusion of classic rock, blues, soul, and country. Enjoy the band’s diverse style and infectious blend of soul and rock groove, which have earned them a loyal fan base over the years.
Anika Emily and Jake Fava
► Huber’s // free // 7 p.m.
Anika Emily and Jake Fava will hit the stage with their unique sound and vibe around 7 p.m. at Huber’s.
Astrofix
► Pour Brothers // free // 11 p.m.
Head to Pour Bros patio on Friday night, to experience Astrofix, an energizing rock band hailing from Springfield, IL. With their dynamic mix of classic, grunge, and modern rock influences, Astrofix delivers both original songs and beloved covers that are sure to delight any rock music aficionado.
Wheaton Municipal Band
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // 7:30 p.m.
Revel in the rich musical presentation of the Wheaton Municipal Band led by Dr. Bruce Moss at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts on Friday evening.
Friday Night Live
► Downtown Champaign // free // 6 p.m.
Enjoy downtown Champaign every Friday from June through August for 40 North’s Friday Night LIVE, a free public performance series. Experience a diverse mix of music genres like bluegrass, jazz, folk, soul, rock, country, and blues, along with unique street performances and weekly kids’ activities, all thanks to the generosity of Pour Bros. Craft Taproom, Busey Bank, the City of Champaign, and the support of Champaign Center Partnership. Check their Facebook page for lineups close to the day of the event.
Chain Station with Wildwood String Band
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15-$20 suggested donation in the bucket // 8:30 p.m.
Experience a relaxing evening with Chain Station, a Denver-based string band specializing in Americana music with intricate harmonies. Known for their eclectic mix of fast and mellow tunes, this accomplished quartet offers a laid-back performance that fans of old and new grass alike will appreciate.
Jay Ferguson Trio
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Lose yourself in the smooth sounds of the Jay Ferguson Trio on the Rose Bowl patio.
Saturday, July 1st
Caleb Cook Band
► Huber’s // free // 7 p.m.
Mosey into Huber’s West End Store Saturday night to witness the Caleb Cook Band play some Country and Western tunes to lighten your load.
Faced Out, Dumbed Down, and Romantica
► The Recreation Club // $10 – $15 sliding scale cover // 8 p.m.
Come to The Recreation Club on Saturday, July 1st for a thrilling night of indie rock and punk music. Featuring St. Louis indie rockers Faced Out, local punks Dumbed Down, and Urbana’s melancholic alt-rock group, Romantica, it’s a night you won’t want to miss, filled with musical expression.
ISYM Final Concert – Intermediate-Advanced Piano
► Smith Memorial Hall // free // 1:30 p.m.
Experience a showcase of intermediate and advanced piano artistry at the Illinois Summer Youth Composition Program’s final concert, taking place at Smith Memorial Hall on Saturday, July 1st. From ensemble music to jazz improvisation, the performance promises a remarkable culmination of the students’ private lessons, masterclasses, and practice on grand pianos in state-of-the-art facilities.
ISYM Final Concert – Composition
► Smith Memorial Hall // free // 12:30 p.m.
Discover fresh and innovative musical expressions at the Illinois Summer Youth Composition Program’s final concert on Saturday, July 1st at Smith Memorial Hall. Be the first to hear original compositions created by talented high school students who have been exploring and honing their compositional skills.
ISYM Final Concert – Senior Symphonic Band
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // Noon
Experience the culmination of dedicated practice and honed artistry at the Illinois Summer Youth Senior Symphonic Band’s final concert, taking place at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, July 1st. Come enjoy a diverse selection of challenging band music performed by talented senior high students, ranging from cornerstone repertoire works to the latest compositions.
ISYM Final Concert – Senior Chorus
► Smith Memorial Hall // free // Noon
Witness the grand finale of the Illinois Summer Youth Senior Orchestra Program at Smith Memorial Hall on Saturday, July 1st. Experience an exceptional choral performance by talented high school vocalists who have dedicated their time to mastering individual artistry, conducting, musicianship, and ensemble harmonies.
ISYM Final Concert – Senior Orchestra
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // 10 p.m.
Don’t miss the Illinois Summer Youth Senior Orchestra Program’s final concert at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, July 1st. Witness the culmination of the program as talented high school musicians, having honed their individual artistry and orchestral ensemble skills, showcase their hard work and talent in this finale performance.
ISYM Final Concert – Introductory Music Technology
► Smith Memorial Hall // free // 10:30 a.m.
The final concert of the Illinois Summer Youth Introductory Music Technology Program will take place at Recital Hall in Smith Memorial Hall on Saturday, July 1st at 10:30 a.m. This event showcases the work of young, aspiring musicians who, with no prior experience, have discovered the basics of audio recording, music production, and electronic composition during the program, culminating in the presentation of their original electronic compositions.
ISYM Black Chorus Final Concert
► Smith Memorial Hall // free // 10 a.m.
Experience the Illinois Summer Youth Music Black Chorus’ final concert on Saturday, July 1st at 10 a.m. at the Recital Hall in Smith Memorial Hall, where talented senior high vocalists will showcase their honed musicianship and individual artistry through a diverse range of vocal music genres, from spirituals and gospel to pop, hip-hop, and R&B, all encapsulating the unique elements of Black American vocal music in a choral setting. This vibrant event is the culmination of their dedicated training, including ensemble and sectional rehearsals, masterclasses, and voice lessons.
Toast to Taylor Street
► Downtown Champaign // free // 4 p.m.
Start your 4th of July week off with some great music at Toast to Taylor Street. Here is the lineup for Saturday, July 1st:
4 p.m: Alyssa Allen 4:40 p.m.: Dan Hubbard and Matthew Pittman 5:50 p.m.: Emma Taylor Group 7:10 p.m.: James Jones Trio 8:30 p.m.: Tito Carrillo & Luminance 10 p.m.: Kilborn Alley Blues Band
Summer Latin Night with DJ ZAY
► The Canopy Club // $15 advance, $20 door // 10 p.m.
Head to The Canopy Club for a powerful night with DJ Zay, a Chicago-born artist known for his resilient spirit and passion for music, deeply influenced by his Mexican heritage and his family’s pursuit of the American Dream. Experience the raw energy and determination that’s seen him overcome life’s challenges, from the loss of his father to combating gang violence, to rise as a standout talent in the DJ scene.
New Twang City
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
Get your Twang in the old city of Urbana. New Twang City plays country, rock, western all with a lil Twang.
The Hood Family Band
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 3 p.m.
The Rose Bowl Aftermarket series continues in the afternoon with the Americana-inspired Hood Family Band.
Aftermarket Series with The Jaybirds
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // Noon
Experience the jazziness of The Jaybirds – featuring Josh Houchin on bass, Young Kim on guitar, Steve Meadows on drums, and Amy Hassinger on vocals – as they deliver a diverse mix of jazz, blues, and pop standards, all infused with their unique blend of heart and soul.
Hessel Park Summer Concert Series featuring Samba Soul
► Hessel Park // free // 6 p.m.
Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to join us for our Summer Concerts featuring the captivating rhythms of Samba Soul this Saturday, July 1st. Attendees are encouraged to come equipped with lawn chairs and their favorite snacks and drinks.
Kids Music with Sarah Jane Layne at the Library
► Champaign Public Library // free // 3 p.m.
Join us for an exuberant performance by Sarah Jane Layne, offering live music for kids, Saturday at 3 p.m. Get ready to enjoy a lively mix of popular kids’ songs and her original Kindie tracks, guaranteeing a party filled with nonstop music, dancing, fun, and excitement!
Audiofeed Music Festival
► Champaign County Fairgrounds // $50 – $100 // 12 p.m. Gates Open
Celebrate Independence Day weekend at Urbana’s Audiofeed Music Festival, starting at noon on Saturday, July 1st and going through July 4th. This four-day event promises an eclectic mix of rock, indie, folk, and electronic music from over 50 acts including Andy Sqyres and Becoming the Archetype, alongside engaging speakers, workshops, and local art exhibits, all within a community-oriented, inclusive setting where camping is welcomed.
Sunday, July 2nd
The Goldenrods
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 7 p.m.
Join The Goldenrods, a St. Louis-based band, known for their unique blend of country and midwestern music. Featuring Ryan Koenig playing a variety of instruments and lending his vocals, Jess Adkins on accordion and guitar, and Kellie Everett on upright bass, their performance includes emotionally stirring waltzes and cheerful two-step tunes.
Ian Shepherd and Friends
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 4 p.m.
Drummer Ian Shepherd teams up with other talented local musicians to bring you a great evening of jazz, blues, funk, and rock.
