Royal Oak Launches Live Music Thursdays

ROYAL OAK, MI– Royal Oak live music options are amping up with the launch of “Live Music Thursdays.” Already recognized as one of southeast Michigan’s top music cities, Royal Oak is featuring a wide array of live music entertainment throughout downtown all summer.

Live Music Thursdays kicks off on July 11 for six consecutive Thursdays with live music performances at the Royal Oak Commission for the Arts Summer Concert Series, which is returning by popular demand, as well as nearly a dozen popular live music venues throughout Royal Oak.

“Royal Oak is the place to be on Thursday nights this summer!” said Royal Oak Mayor Michael Fournier. “Live Music Thursdays makes our great city the destination for live music with the Summer Concert Series, hosted by the Royal Oak Commission for the Arts, and exciting performances by local talent at our dynamic live music venues. Ample and easy parking, a large variety of restaurants, musical venues and musical acts are just some of the reasons Royal Oak thrives as an entertainment town.”

At the Summer Concert Series, music enthusiasts are invited to grab lawn chairs and blankets and head to downtown Royal Oak for weekly live performances by some of the area's top bands. The free concert series includes a line-up of the area's top and emerging musical acts at the “Center Street Pop-Up Park” where visitors can relax and listen to live music in an inviting setting. All concerts run from approximately 6 – 9 pm and feature three acts. Adding to the family-friendly fun this year, Oakland County Parks and Recreation will bring outdoor activities each week.

Building upon the success of last summer’s concert series, Live Music Thursdays also features special music performances at downtown Royal Oak’s thriving live music venues, including 526 Main Dueling Pianos; Fifth Avenue; Goldfish Tea; Goodnight Gracie’s; The Morrie; Motor City Gas; Oak City Grille; and the Royal Oak Music Theatre. The list of participating Royal Oak businesses is expected to grow as summer continues.

“It’s clear Royal Oak has it all: great live music, outstanding restaurants and bars, some of the state’s best breweries and vibrant shopping,” said DDA Chair Jay Dunstan. “Live Music Thursdays is certain to make Royal Oak a popular destination all summer.”

Curated by Detroit School of Rock and Pop Music founder/executive director Jason Gittinger, the musical acts at Pop-Up Park are accessible for kids and also critically acclaimed for adults to enjoy.

“Whether it’s Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits singing rock or punk songs with lyrics that kids love and beats that adults can rock out to, Kris Kurzawa showing his incredible guitar skills performing Led Zeppelin, or Detroit rock singer and songwriter Barbara Payton being a source of inspiration with her soulful, bluesy voice, there is serious talent at the Summer Concert Series,” said Gittinger. “Detroit School of Rock and Pop Music musicians—who are the headliners of tomorrow—also get to flaunt their skills and are worthy of attention!”

Beginning at 6 pm, the Summer Concerts Series includes:

• July 11: Detroit School of Rock / Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits / Melissa Behring & Trustees
• July 18: Detroit School of Rock / Paxonton/Spangler Quartet / Dave Hamilton Band
• July 25: Detroit School of Rock / Jill Jack Band / The Orbitsuns
• August 1: Detroit School of Rock / Mark Randisi / Theo Gridiron Spight & Friends
• August 8: Detroit School of Rock / Killer Flamingos
• August 15: Detroit School of Rock / Nick Kuhl & the Gang / Kris Kurzawa Group with Barbara Payton Plays Led Zeppelin

“Royal Oak has always stood out as a perfect Thursday night on the town,” said Anthony Yezbick, co-owner of Fifth Avenue and 526 Main Dueling Pianos. “Royal Oak venues provide a stage for the region’s virtuoso musicians—and emerging musicians—to entertain audiences who want a night out in a city that’s convenient. Meaning, easy parking with a ton of choices in a walkable distance. Thursday nights are fantastic in Royal Oak this summer.”