Every Thursday, July 6-Aug. 24, from 5 to 9 p.m.
One Center Street Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City 2017
It’s been hailed by The New York Times as “Newark’s town social” and it’s the hottest music scene in New Jersey’s largest city on Thursday nights in July and August. In celebration of its 20th anniversary season, New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), in collaboration with the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey and M&T Bank, announces the return of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City free outdoor concert series.
NJPAC is pleased to announce the addition of M&T Bank as the presenting sponsor this year which, along with ongoing support from Horizon Foundation and other sponsors, helps underwrite the program costs. M&T becomes the newest member of NJPAC’s Co-Chair Circle, representing one of the organization’s largest sponsors, and will also collaborate with NJPAC Arts Education in the fall to bring additional music education opportunities to K-12 public school students throughout the state.
Attended by thousands of music and dance fans who enjoy great entertainment under the stars, Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City is presented at no cost to the community in NJPAC’s Chambers Plaza.
An exciting lineup of diverse musical artists is in place for the anniversary season, beginning on Thursday, July 6 at 5 p.m. with the traditional opener, DJ Felix Hernandez and his “Rhythm Revue Dance Party.”
The party continues every Thursday through Aug. 24, with a stellar array of established artists and rising stars, performing music ranging from soul and hip-hop to the grooves of Latin and jazz. This year’s headliners include Jon B. (July 13); Kurtis Blow and Universal Hip-Hop Museum (July 20); Septeto Santiaguero (July 27); Tower of Power (Aug. 3); Louis Prima Jr. & The Witnesses (Aug. 10); Black Sheep / Das EFX (Aug. 17), and Talib Kweli (Aug. 24).
Thursday, July 6
The popular host of “Rhythm Revue,” now in its 31st year on the New York area airwaves, spins the dance hits.
Thursday, July 13
This Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter (“Someone to Love”) specializes in a distinctive brand of soul and R&B.
Thursday, July 20
Hip-hop pioneer Kurtis Blow arrives with his group, dedicated to inspiring audiences through the power of hip-hop.
Thursday, July 27
Opener: 3D Rhythm of Life
Tower of Power
For nearly 50 years, this R&B band, known for its hearty horn section, has specialized in a groove-based brand of urban soul.
Thursday, Aug. 10
Sponsored by the Gia Maione Foundation
Black Sheep / Das EFX
Legacy Hip Hop Dance performance
Thursday, Aug. 24
DJ Spintelect
This acclaimed rapper’s outings as a solo artist include collaborations with Kanye West, Just Blaze and Pharrell Williams.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, N.J., is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted nearly 10 million visitors (including over 1.5 million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.
