Jesse Chong to perform July 11 for Music on Monarch Way Concert Series
The University Village will turn up the summer heat in its 2nd annual Music on Monarch Way concert series Saturday, July 11, with eclectic reggae, funk and rock artist Jesse Chong.
Chong, who hails from Virginia Beach, is known and loved by national audiences for his impeccable musicianship and excellent songwriting. During his musical career, he has opened for a variety of bands, from Steely Dan to Steel Pulse.
Sponsored by the Old Dominion University Real Estate Foundation and the University Village, the Saturday evening concerts are held from 5-7 p.m. on the lawn behind ODU's Ted Constant Convocation Center along Monarch Way. Concert admission and parking are free.
Information about the concert series and a full list of shops and restaurants at the University Village are available at http://www.oduvillage.com or by calling 683-4504.
The concert schedule is as follows:
July 18: Laura Martier with Joe Mapp and the Coordinates - Classic Jazz
Cool jazz is infused with a little soul featuring VSOJAZ recording artist Laura Martier, guitarists Joe Mapp and Dan Martier, and Mick Vaughn on rhythm.
July 25: Robbin Thompson - National Recording Artist
Thompson was the lead singer in the Bruce Springsteen band Steelmill, won the American Song Festival twice and has recorded 12 albums. Thompson and friend Steve Bassett authored the song "Sweet Virginia Breeze," which is considered by many to be the unofficial state song of Virginia.
Aug. 1: Session Rockers - Reggae Roots Music
This musically innovative group combines indie soul with reggae beats. Session Rockers was nominated for best reggae band by Virginia Reggae Awards for 2009.
Aug. 8: Corporate Woods Drive - Blues/Rock
The band "paints itself in the Stevie Ray Vaughan and Cream shade of blue," according to reporter Jeff Maisey in The Virginian-Pilot. Playing at venues such as the Norva and the Jewish Mother, the band has a growing and diverse audience that includes everyone from high schoolers to baby boomers.
Aug. 15: Luke Hartman Band - Soft Rock
This trio's music appeals to people of all ages with cover songs ranging from the '70s to today. While the acoustic guitar is the main staple of their music, the rhythm section adds a funky groove, giving the band its unique sound.
Aug. 22: Harwell Grice Band - Bluegrass
Delivering hard-driving bluegrass fresh from the mountains of Southwest Virginia, these talented young musicians offer a wide repertoire of traditional, cover and original music.