Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Organizers of a local music series are gearing up to put on a sixth season of weekly concerts in the area once known as the “Y Block” in Springfield.

The Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series kicks off Thursday, May 29th, running every Thursday night through July 31st.  The series, presented through PNC Bank, will be in the vacant block at Fourth and Jackson, north of the Governor’s Mansion.

“The Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series is supported in part by the Levitt Foundation, which partners with changemakers and nonprofits across the country to activate underused outdoor spaces through the power and joy of free, live music—bringing people together, fostering belonging, and invigorating community life,” said Levitt Foundation President & CEO Sharon Yazowski, in a news relerase.  “Presenting high-caliber talent and a broad array of music genres and cultural programming, Levitt concerts are welcoming and inclusive destinations where people of all ages and backgrounds gather.”

Levitt funds similar events in other communities in the community, including other cities in Illinois.

In Springfield, each concert will start with a “Kids’ Kickoff” at 6:30 p.m., an opening act at 7, and the featured act at 8 p.m.

This year’s headliners include:

  • Janet Evra (Jazz), May 29
  • Alysha Brilla (World), June 5
  • Emily Nenni (Country), June 12
  • The Rumble, featuring Chief Joseph Boudreaux, Jr. (New Orleans Funk), June 19
  • Luv Locz (Carribean Funk Reggae), June 26
  • Parker Barrow (Southern Rock), July 3
  • Cedric Burnside (Blues), July 10
  • Lee Fields (R&B Soul), July 17
  • Adaptivo 16 (Latin), July 24
  • Jim Lauderdale (Americana), July 31

All concerts are free and open to the public.  Members of the public, officials say, can bring their own food and drink; however, food trucks will be on site and area eateries will be open.

A number of local businesses and organizations are sponsoring the series.

HEAR MORE ABOUT THIS YEAR’S LEVITT AMP SPRINGFIELD MUSIC SERIES WEDNESDAY AT 7:40 A.M. DURING THE WTAX MORNING NEWSWATCH.