Thursday Night Concert Series Kicks Off May 11
By Mike Emery
This week, the University of Houston-Downtown kicks off its Thursday Night Concert Series with one of Texas' most iconic musical voices.
Veteran singer-songwriter Joe Ely headlines the series' kick-off concert on May 11 at Discovery Green. Opening act Brant Croucher takes the stage at 7 p.m. followed by Ely.
Each year. UHD partners with Discovery Green for this concert series that offers a fun, family atmosphere featuring noted Lone Star musicians. This free weekly event is co-sponsored by Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Cactus Music and 90.1 KPFT-FM.
Ely's career has spanned more than five decades. His brand of progressive country meets Americana rock has earned him countless fans around the globe. He's collaborated and performed with a who's who of musicians including Bruce Springsteen, Linda Ronstadt, the Clash, the Chieftains and many others.
In addition to Ely, the Thursday Night Concert Series spotlights some of the state's top musicians including rockabilly queen Rose Flores, guitar slinger Ian Moore and versatile rock act Del Castillo. On May 25, UHD will present a special alumni night featuring Houston legends Grady Gaines and the Texas Upsetters and the ThunderSOUL Orchestra.
A complete list of performers is as follows:
May 11 : Joe Ely with opening act Brant Croucher
May 18: Del Castillo
May 25: ThunderSOUL Orchestra and Grady Gaines & The Texas Upsetters
June 1: Luke Winslow King with opening act The Kris Lager Band
June 8: Leyla McCalla with opening act Chubby Knuckle Choir
June 15: Jesse Dayton with opening act The Octanes
June 22: Rosie Flores with opening act Sparky Parker
June 29: Ian Moore with opening act Tony Vega