Best Summer Concerts

Best Summer Concerts

Summer in Rhode Island is always fantastic, but there is one area where the state really stands out... music. Rhody is home to four famous music festivals and is filled with great venues that continue to attract a wide array of national and local talent.

That’s why we’ve handpicked nine of

the hottest concerts of the summer, just for you. All the way from Folk to Hip Hop. All right here in the 401. What better way is there to spend a summer night?

Worldbeat Sounds: Aventura July 9

To broaden your horizons, come see this Bronx-based bachata music group (right) for their only New England performance of the year. Dunkin’ Donuts Civic Center, 1 Lasalle Sq, Providence, 331-6700.

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Acoustic Pioneers: Indigo Girls July 29

For any lover of acoustic music (and beautiful ocean views), this is a must-see: a revolutionary duo performing right on the Newport waterfront. Part of the Sunset Music Series. Newport Yachting Center, 4 Commercial Wharf, Newport, 846-1600.

Hot Singer-Songwriter: Brandi Carlile July 31

Featured frequently on Grey’s Anatomy, this American singer-songwriter is not to be missed. Part of the Newport Folk

Festival. Fort Adams State Park, Harrison Ave, Newport, 847-2400 (Photo Rhianon England).

Cool Jazz Prodigy: Jamie Cullum August 6

This summer, don’t miss the youthful, smooth sounds of British Jazz artist Jamie Cullum. Part of the Newport Jazz Festival. International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Ave, Newport, 846-1203.

International Stars: The Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma August 9

Okay, maybe this is outside the 401 area code, but it is well worth a trip over the bridge to see the collaboration of these renowned musicians. Zeiterion Theatre, 684 Purchase St

, New Bedford, (508) 994-2900 (Photo World Economic Forum).

American Idol Hot Star: Adam Lambert  August 17

The first openly gay pop artist to sign at a major record label, this groundbreaking, fun and provocative sensation is

not to be missed this summer at Lupo’s. Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel, 79 Washington St, Providence, 331-5876 (Photo Tomdog).

Tween Sensation: Justin Bieber August 27

In one year, this Canadian 16 year old went from Youtube sensation to chart-topping phenomenon – come see what the fuss is all about live at the Dunk! Dunkin’ Donuts Civic

Center, 1 Lasalle Sq, Providence, 331-6700.

Soul Man: Brian McKnight August 27

For a night of soulful music and fun, come hear this multitalented R&B musician at Twin River this summer. Twin River Event Center, 100 Twin River Rd, Lincoln, 723-3200.

Summer Closer: The Boston Pops with special guest Kenny Loggins Sept 4

For family fun, take the kids to the home of the Pawtucket Red Sox to see Loggins’ only New England area performance this year. McCoy Stadium, 1 Columbus Ave, Pawtucket, 724-7300.