Summer Concerts, Had Me a Blast!

During the summer so many acts come to Chicago that it makes it hard to keep up for average concert goer.
Lincoln Hall has quickly grown to be one of my favorite venues to see acts. Growing out of Schubas Tavern on Belmont and Southport, this place has the same owners but is a newer space with dark wood and a balcony to get a birds eye view on the scene.

The front bar has had some slow service and a bit of an attitude at times but the front door staff has grown on me and now we are friendly. A place that serves 5 dollar hamburgers after ten o'clock is always dear to my heart and stomach.
Not only can you get up close and personal to the stage but many acts come to merchandise booth and hang out with fans. It is a great way to meet upcoming bands.

Last week I saw Sarah Jaffe and Tanlines perform at Lincoln Hall. Although they are new performers, I believe it will be no time before they are playing even bigger venues. For the Pitchfork after party Tanlines sang "All of Me" and people were talking about it nonstop when the left that evening.
Past acts playing here have been Fiona Apple, The Temper Trap, and Foster the People, who have all gone on to bigger spaces.

Owl City is entering Top 40 territory thanks to Carly Rae Jepsen and having a "Good Time." He kicked off his tour at The Bottom Lounge and seemed so genuinely thrilled to see his fans. He can have goofy lyrics at times but he makes people smile and sometimes that is what music is all about.
Speaking of smiles Barry Manilow can't smile without you and he packed three nights at The Chicago Theatre.

I stayed up late one night at the Paris Studio to interview and watch new DJ dance act Rebecca & Fiona perform right after the Windy City Live anniversary party. The girls were sweet and even made me have a drink with them.
Flipping interviews over to the Spanish side I spoke with Natalia Jimenez from La Quinta Estacion before her show at V Live.

She was so much fun and playing with glow sticks, free Miller Lites, and 3D photos kept the night jumping. People already lined up for Jersey Shore's Pauly D but we bounced to Spin instead to meet Manila from RuPaul's Drag Race.
I skipped Taste of Chicago this year. There were some classic music acts but no turkey legs and the smaller space cramped their style this time out.

Nicki Minaj hit the stage this past Monday and it was not boring. She has such a kinetic energy with her rhymes. The crowd wore lots of pink and wigs creating an exciting night with lots to look at.
Lollapalooza and Market Days are on the way with many concerts in between so get ready and fasten your seat belts with lots of pictures and coverage from NunnontheRun.com!