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The Beat Goes On: Dayton’s Next Generation Carries Forward the City’s Legendary Funk Legacy

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On Thursday, September 18, The Brightside Music & Event Venue will transform into a celebration of both Dayton’s storied past and its promising musical future. “From Dayton With Funk” promises an electrifying evening featuring three dynamic local acts: Luv Locz Experiment, MelinaMarie, and Freakquency. These rising stars will perform a carefully curated mix of iconic funk classics alongside their own original compositions, creating a bridge between the city’s golden age of funk and its contemporary renaissance.

The event offers more than just entertainment. Attendees will have the opportunity to view exclusive Dayton-centric segments from the PBS documentary WE WANT THE FUNK! providing historical context and celebrating the city’s often-overlooked contributions to American music culture. It’s a rare chance to see how Dayton’s musical DNA continues to influence artists today.

Luv Locz Experiment headlines “From Dayton With Funk”

What sets “From Dayton With Funk” apart from typical concert experiences is its commitment to supporting the region’s cultural infrastructure. Proceeds from the event will benefit PBS stations ThinkTV (Dayton) and CET (Cincinnati), and the Yellow Springs Film Festival, organizations that champion public media and arts programming throughout the area. In an era where funding for public broadcasting and independent arts initiatives faces constant challenges, events like this demonstrate how local music scenes can support broader cultural initiatives.

“It’s about more than just a night of great music,” explains event organizer, Libby Ballengee. “We’re investing in the platforms that help preserve and share our community’s stories.”

While the evening will undoubtedly feature beloved classics that have defined Dayton’s sound for generations, the focus on original material from contemporary artists ensures this isn’t merely a nostalgia trip. Luv Locz Experiment, MelinaMarie, and Freakquency represent different approaches to funk’s evolution, each bringing their own influences and innovations to the genre’s traditional foundation.

The Brightside Music & Event Venue, known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect setting for this multi-generational celebration.

The beat that started decades ago in Dayton continues to pulse through the city’s venues, studios, and hearts. On September 18, that beat will be louder than ever, carrying forward a legacy while writing new chapters in the ongoing story of Dayton funk.

HOW TO GO?

Thursday, September 18

Doors: 7:00 PM / Show: 8:00 PM

The Brightside Music & Event Venue

All ages welcome!

🎟️ Tickets: http://bit.ly/44LlW9T

  • General Admission – $25 (Advance) Limited seating available throughout the venue 

  • VIP Table for 2 – $150 Reserved seating at premium tables near the stage (not on dance floor).

  • VIP Table for 4 – $200 Reserved seating close to the stage for your whole crew (not on dance floor).

  • General Admission Day of Show – $30 (we accept cash or credit at the door)

For more information about The Brightside Music & Event Venue and upcoming shows, visit their website here, or follow them on social media.

Art Parkd Music & Arts Festival features the Next Generation of Dayton Talent

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Eleanor Dakota performs at Art Parkd

Art Parkd is a grassroots music festival featuring Gen Z artists, and is one that Dayton music fans should really take note of. It’s located in Grafton Hill, and is happening this Saturday, October 7th and has a fantastic daytime schedule, running 3-9pm. No late nights for those who don’t like to be out late, and for those ragers out there, it’s a great pre-game before evening festivities.

Affordability is another other reason to buy a ticket to this festival. Pre-sale tickets are only $5! Even if you’re unsure if you can make this festival, buy a $5 ticket as a donation. Why? This festival features the next generation of Dayton talent, and they deserve all the support we can give them.

Art Parkd is the brain-child of the uber talented Sophia Munoz Daughtery, who is a local photographer and event organizer. Supported by her friend Jennifer Kash, the festival was launched last October to rave reviews. This year’s event promises to be even better!

If you want to see emerging talent that will delight and surprise you, please check out this event! More info and tickets available at: https://www.artparkd.com/

Musicians and bands performing include:

Frank Calzada

Proxy.Exe

Crabswithoutlegs

Isicle

Grandace

Dos.Gradiose

DJ Don

The Rosies

Jay Hill!

 

HOW TO GO?

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Time: 3pm – 9pm

Location: 609 W. Riverview, 609 W. Riverview , Dayton, United States

Buy $5 advance ticket here: https://allevents.in/dayton/art-parkd-dayton-music-and-art-festival/80002106649205?ref=smdl

The Theatre Guild Continues to Move the Needle Forward with ‘Radio Golf.’

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Waldron Directs ‘Radio Golf’ at Theatre Guild.

The Dayton Theatre Guild has long been known for its cutting edge productions, and its expert presentation of tough subject matter. August Wilson’s ‘Radio Golf‘ remains firmly in that path! I was lucky enough to catch up with the show’s director, Robert-Wayne Waldron. He gave us the inside scoop to this latest performance.

JS: Rob, so good to see you and to get a minute to chat about ‘Radio Golf.’ And with that, why ‘Radio Golf?’ What stuck out about it that made it seem like the play to do today?

RWW:  I did not choose the show it was chosen by the Dayton Theatre Guild to open its 23-24 season. I was chosen from 3 other directors. I jumped at the chance it’s been a few years since I’ve been at the helm of a show and its August Wilson! Radio Golf is the final play in August Wilson’s Century Cycle of ten plays set in Pittsburgh 1997. It tells the story of Harmond Wilks a real-estate developer  who is running to be the first Black mayor of Pittsburgh. When he confronted with sacrificing the past in order to pursue progress.

JS: The show has such depth and truly looks at gentrification and politics….etc. What do you hope audiences get from this show?

RWW: I hope our audience gain a better understanding of the continuing struggle of the Black community to preserve our history and traditions and embrace progress without sacrificing that past.

JS: Timely for sure. I know the Theatre Guild is known for dynamic ‘straight’ plays (non-musicals). How would you say this show is relevant in our climate today?

RWW: First of all, it’s August Wilson, the poet of theatre’s Black America. This show puts it right out there, the things that are still happening today the destruction of neighborhoods and communities in the name of progress, but for who…. certainly not the people in those communities. That’s because this progress and the improvements are out of the financial reach of the people in these communities.

JS: We literally can look around our area and see the same. Wow! So, for you, what is it in directing that you enjoy?

Cast of ‘Radio Golf.’

RWW: I enjoy the process of get a show to the stage. Expressing my creativity and working with the actors to bring the words of the script to life.

JS: And do you have a personal favorite show you have done in the area?

RWW: I have directed a lot of theatre over the years! If I had to pick one, it would be this one Radio Golf.   It came along at a difficult time in my life, health wise, and it created an outlet for me not to be in my head with my health issue. I’m working with this amazing cast of actors and its been an awesome experience.

JS: Speaking of….who are you cast and crew?

RWW: Director: Robert-Wayne Waldron, Harmond Wilks: S. Francis Livisay, Mame Wilks: Jena Perry, Roosevelt Hicks: Lessley Scott, Sterling Johnson: Andre Tomlinson & Elder Joseph Barlow: Franklin Johnson.

August Wilson’s Radio Golf at DTG.

JS: This sounds like a real success for the Guild….what about ticket info?

RWW: August Wilson’s Radio Golf opens today, August 25th and runs weekends thru Sept 10th At the Dayton Theatre Guild 430 Wayne Avenue!

Tickets can be purchased online at Daytontheatreguild.org.
JS: Break a leg, my friend. And thanks for talking with me!
Make sure and look into all the great theater happening in dayton this weekend and every weekend!
Keep up by revisiting us at Dayton937.com.
Josh is always looking to highlight your next performance!
Reach out so he can get the story out about your upcoming production!

 

If You Love Theatre, Dayton Has Plenty Of Options!

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If you are looking for entertainment, the Dayton Theatre scene has you covered.

Beavercreek Community Theatre will open Twelfth Night this weekend. It’s  a funny, funky musical interpretation of a Shakespeare classic romantic comedy about mistaken identity and self discovery.  Directed by Matt Owens, with Musical Direction by Charles Larkowski, this show will run through June 25th.

Over at The Dayton Theatre Guild, the intense drama Hedda Gabbler, Directed by David Shough continues through Sunday, and is not to be missed. Returning from her honeymoon, Hedda finds herself already bored of her husband, and longing for the days when she was free to exercise her wild and independent whims. With the return of an old flame and a proposition from an amorous judge, she begins a dangerous game, amusing herself by manipulating and destroying everyone around her in an attempt to regain control of her life.

 

Brian Sharp brings the touching play, The Interview to the Westminster Dinner Theatre,  which is sold out.

 

Over at The Dayton Playhouse the campy, not for the easily offended Evil Dead, The Musical directed by John Detty takes the stage Friday, June 16 and runs through  Sunday June 25.

Five college students go to an abandoned cabin in the woods, and accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It’s all up to Ash (a housewares employee, turned demon-killing hero), and his trusty chainsaw to save the day. Blood flies. Limbs are dismembered. Demons tell bad jokes…and all to music. This show is rated R.


South of town you’ll find Cyrano de Burger Shack, directed by Jim Brown and Rob Breving at Springboro Community Theatre.

Cyrano is king of the local Burger Shack, but he can’t seem to win the love of his best friend, Roxanne. When Roxanne confesses her crush on the new burger-flipper, Christian, Cyrano decides that playing Cupid is better than sitting out of the game. An updated, modern-day version of Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, this rollicking musical features hit contemporary pop songs that will have audiences cheering

Sunday In The Park With George at Middletown Lyric Theatre. Sunday in the Park with George, merges past and present into beautiful, poignant truths about life, love and the creation of art. The days leading up to the completion of his most famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, Georges Seurat is struggling to make meaningful art and maintaining a relationship with his lover, Dot. Seurat’s artistic ability thrives while his love diminishes. This weekends shows are sold out, but tickets remain for June 23 & 24.

The Human Race continues INDIGO, a world premiere musical making its debut run at The Loft Theatre from June 7-25. Beverly braces for chaos when her mother is diagnosed with dementia and moves in with her and her husband. But when her daughter, a non-speaking autistic teenager, crashes back into her life, Beverly must confront her past mistakes and work to repair the bonds of trust and family. INDIGO is a powerful and heartfelt musical about accepting the mistakes our parents make and challenging ourselves to repair our own.

This powerful and heartfelt musical about breaking through is quickly winning over the hearts of audiences.

Hip Hop Showcase at The Brightside on Friday

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This year marks 50 years since the birth of Hip Hop, and The Brightside is celebrating with a special local showcase put together by up-and-coming musical artist and songwriter, Eman Jones. Last year, Jones won The Brightside’s Dayton Battle of the Band’s Hip Hop round, and went to onto perform at Levitt Pavilion and other local venues.

Putting together these types of showcases is very fulfilling to Jones. “Every year I give artists that are my favorites their flowers,” he shared with us. “I’m just pushing the blessings forward and giving our artists and my friends a voice.”

The showcase features 11 performers, including Jones himself (see full schedule below).

How to Go? 

Friday, February 10, 2023

at The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St, Dayton)

Free on-site parking!

$10 advance ticket / $15 at the door

Ticket link: https://www.venuepilot.co/events/68609/orders/new

Ages: 18+

Doors open 7:30pm

Makkiah malan 8:15- 8:20
Ken dawwg- 8:30-8:40
Vonna – 8:45- 8:55
Racks ima rental – 9:00-9:10
Vader- 9:15-9:25
Tay Dan- 9:30-9:40
Cee – 9:45-9:55
Sgb x Candy – 10:00-10:10
D Knight – 10:15-10:25
Eman Jones x Luther : 10:30-11:00

 

Unique concert experience supports Seedling Foundation & Stivers HS

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Crabswithoutlegs perform at The Brightside. Photo by Libby Ballengee.

Rise Up! is a unique concert experience and a joyful way to raise funds for the Seedling Foundation – the 501c3 non-profit that supports the art programs at Stivers School for the Arts. 

This fun & fabulous live music event features original reggae from Dayton’s own Luv Locz Experiment and Crabswithoutlegs, a young, Dayton jazz-fusion band. Please join us for a memorable evening at The Brightside Music & Event Venue. Phat & Rich food truck will be on site.

Show proceeds will go to the Seedling Foundation, which works to provide the additional funds required to make these immersive experiences possible. With broad community support, Stivers provides life-defining experiences for its students.

The Luv Locz Experiment

**How to Go?**

Friday, December 9, 2022

At The Brightside Music & Event Venue – 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

7pm – VIP Doors / Cocktail Reception w live music: Crabswithoutlegs

8pm – General Admission Doors

9pm – Luv Locz Experiment

**Tickets**

$20 General Admission Pre-Sale (+ $2 ticket fee)

$25 General Admission Day of Show

$75 VIP Ticket – includes early admission, cocktail hour with live music, hors d’oeuvres, and a drink ticket.

All available here – https://www.venuepilot.co/events/63898/orders/new

Dayton Porchfest delivers 50 free concerts this Saturday

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This Saturday, don’t miss the 6th annual Dayton Porchfest, a free neighborhood music festival in St Anne’s Hill Historic Neighborhood. This beloved community-building event is facilitated by The Collaboratory, a civic think tank that launches exciting new projects from idea to reality.

One of those ideas is Porchfest, which is held on International Play Music on a Porch Day. The event offers 6 hours of free live music held on porches throughout the St. Anne’s Hill neighborhood. It’s a lovely opportunity to meet the neighborhood and celebrate the quality and diversity of the Dayton music scene.

Dayton Porchfest was founded in 2017, inspired by the original Porchfest, which was started in 2007 in Ithaca, NY, and Larchmere Porchfest in Cleveland, which was started in 2009. Today there are over 150 Porchfests throughout the United States and Canada. Dayton was 94.

Dayton has a rich musical history and active music scene, which continues today. Dayton Porchfest is committed to reflecting that in its selection of musical artists, from funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old-timey that has deep Appalachian traditions here. We also celebrate the ethnic diversity of the region, a reflection of our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade. The St. Anne’s neighborhood welcomes all Daytonians to join in this celebration!

Dayton Porchfest is an initiative of The Collaboratory (www.daytoncollaboratory.org). This local volunteer organization provides infrastructure for people and organizations to collaboratively develop community initiatives that generate new economic, civic, and creative opportunities and value. The result is a healthier, more thriving region. All proceeds from Dayton Porchfest go to support the work of The Collaboratory. Tips collected at the event go directly to the musicians performing. Please be generous!

HOW TO GO?

Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 1pm – 7pm

Free!

All ages welcome

St Anne’s Hill Historic Neighborhood – see map here

 

1:15 – 1:45 PM KICK-OFF

T.R.S.S. Drum Corps – 10 LaBelle

 

2:00 PM MUSIC BLOCK

Amber Hargett, Singer/Songwriter – 1601 E. Fifth Street (Henry)

Five Rivers Drum Ensemble, African Drumming – 33 Potomac

Good Time Accordion Guys, Sing-Along – 624 McLain

Jimmy D. Rogers, Blues and Roots – 126 Henry

Our Sacred Vanity, Folk – 48 High Street

Patricia Berg Trio, Jazz  – 212 South Dutoit

Sadbox, Rock – 15 Henry

Syrodesy Flue Trio, Classical Contemporary – 48 McClure

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3:00 PM MUSIC BLOCK

As Is, Jazz – 1432 E. Fourth Street

Café con Leche, Acoustic/Jazz/Eclectic  – 126 LaBelle

Charlie and Amanda, Country – 214 South Dutoit

Chris Heider and The Red Bandana Band, Folk Rock – 154 South Dutoit

Fin Tan, Irish Pub Music – 600 McLain

Gabe Maas and the Bruins, Pop – 54 LaBelle

(CANCELED) Nick Kizirnis, Americana – 18 LaBelle

Rum River Blend, Americana – 1535 E. Fifth Street (Henry)

Sharon Lane, Blues – 62 High Street

The Nautical Theme, Modern Folk – 34 High

TINO, Hip Hop – 52 McClure

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4:00 PM MUSIC BLOCK

A Sweet Sound, Americana – 22 LaBelle

Age Nowhere, Country/Rock – 222 South Dutoit

Emory Road, Folk Rock – 616 McLain

Harold Hensley, Americana – 216 Henry

Jonathan Hamilton, Folk – 66 McClure

Kyleen Downes, Singer/Songwriter – 42 High Street

Miami Valley Klezmer Ensemble, Klezmer – 65 LaBelle

Mike Bankhead, Indie Rock – 133 LaBelle

Nasty Bingo, Folkadelic at Its Finest – 1514 E. Fourth Street

Novena, Folk Rock – 50 Henry

Sam King, Americana/Folk – 130 Henry

Ty Spacely, Hip Hop/Rap – 244 Henry

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5:00 PM MUSIC BLOCK

Charlie Tipton, Singer/Songwriter – 1436 E. Fourth Street (Henry)

Cry Baby Cry, Rock – 51 McClure

Dayton Salsa Project, Salsa – 517 McLain

Ghost Town Silence, Rock/Americana – 39 Henry

John Dubuc’s Guilty Pleasures, Rock-N-Roll – 18 LaBelle

K. Carter, Hip Hop – 1616 E. Fifth Street (Backyard)

Kris n., Indie/Pop-Rock – 234 South Dutoit

Serin Oh, Alt Pop – 30 LaBelle

Somersault, Original Rock – 145 McClure

The Hitchhiker Band, Irish – 154 South Dutoit

The Touchy Feelys, Folk/Indie/Country – 201 Henry (McLain)

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6:00 PM MUSIC BLOCK

Mariah J, Soul/Funk/R&B – 605 McLain

NeoAmerican Pioneers, Indie Rock – 222 South Dutoit

Rich Reuter, Rock – 234 Henry

Solistic, Little Bit of Everything – 44 High Street

The Jaywalkers, American Folk/Rock – 1514 E. Fourth Street

The Kadence, Pop – 10 Henry

Todd the Fox, Rockabilly & Blues – 55 McClure

Tori Adams, Roots/Folk/Americana – 630 McLain (High)

Wild Forrest Blackberri, Root Rock/Folk-Blues – 28 LaBelle

 

This Summer, a Once-in-a-Half-Century Party Calls Neighbors Back to South Park

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The 2001 Rehabarama of “The Weis-Leissentritt House” at 307 Oak Street was once two houses. These 1800s-era homes were updated with a unique glass-walled passageway to create one classic home with warm, comfortable living space and bold design statements.

With music, food, storytelling, and a beer garden, South Park’s Reunion Block Party celebrates its 40-year struggle to become safe, livable and inviting.
DAYTON, Oh. July 7, 2022 – On Saturday, July 30, from 3-6pm, a massive meet-up of neighbors who live in South Park or have called it home over the past forty years will gather to mark the 40-year anniversary of becoming Dayton’s largest Historic District.

In 1981, South Park’s historic landmark designation gave neighbors powerful leverage to reverse blight, combat slumlords, and drive out crime. It launched South Park’s evolution from a neighborhood of last resort to a desirable place to live.

“It’s been quite a journey,” shares Mark Manovich, president of the Historic South Park neighborhood council. “When my wife Karin and I moved here in 1992, it was known to be rough. The parents of our kids’ school friends wouldn’t allow them to come here for playdates.”

ut even then, Mark recalls, it was unpretentious and friendly with that “we’re all in this together” camaraderie. Many neighbors have become lifelong friends after bonding over alley sweeps, beautification projects, old-house repairs, grant-writing, crime-fighting, but most of all the parties.

“We have a reputation for our parties,” says event coordinator Karin Manovich. “We’ve got great stories and before-and-after pictures to share at the Reunion, along with food and drink from South Park’s own establishments.” Even the sponsoring organizations were founded by South Parkers – Square One Salon & Spa, The Brightside Venue, and The Rubi Girls.

The sense of community in South Park has always been as unique as its built environment. It brings people closer. This 150-acre area south of downtown Dayton includes 800 structures, circa 1880 to 1900, designed for people from all walks of life. “There’s no other neighborhood that we know of with housing stock like this that attracts such interesting and diverse people. Tiny cottages next to big showy Victorians, corner storefronts, and everything in between,” says Karin.

The 2001 Rehabarama of “The Weis-Leissentritt House” at 307 Oak Street was once two houses. These 1800s-era homes were updated with a unique glass-walled passageway to create one classic home with warm, comfortable living space and bold design statements.

As with any inner neighborhood, South Park’s work continues. But it’s time to hit pause and celebrate. Says Karin, “We want everyone to enjoy their share of credit for taking a chance, investing the sweat, money and emotion it takes to create a neighborhood that feels like family.”

HOW TO CELEBRATE: Plan to meet up with old friends and neighbors, bring a lawn chair, enjoy the party, take a stroll, and congratulate yourself for helping make South Park a place to live kindly, fearlessly, and prosperously.

Who: South Parkers past and present, and all who have contributed to the neighborhood’s recovery (City staff, contractors, Rehabarama partners, AIA architects, former Community Based Police Officers, preservationists, patrons of our tours, plays and festivals) and those interested in the neighborhood today.

What: South Park Reunion Block Party is a free event presented by the Historic South Park neighborhood council, Square One Salon & Spa, The Brightside Venue, and The Rubi Girls.

When: Saturday, July 30, 3-6pm

Where:  The Gazebo and Boulevard at Park Drive (near Wayne Avenue). Park at Oak Street Health (Wayne & Wyoming), Hope Lutheran Church and Emerson Academy (both at Perrine & Hickory).

Sonic Springs Benefit Concert features Talib Kweli, Cloud Nothings, Monograms & more!

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On Friday, July 22nd, 2022 at 7:00 pm The Brightside in Dayton, OH will host a benefit concert featuring national recording artists Talib Kweli, Cloud Nothings, local DJ Fatty Lumpkin, and Brooklyn-based indie rock band Monograms. All proceeds above operating costs will be donated to the independently owned radio station WYSO in Yellow Springs.

Since its inception in 1958, the mission of WYSO has been to serve the Miami Valley and beyond with trusted journalism and artistic inspiration that improves lives and builds community. In 2023 WYSO will be moving from their home on Antioch’s campus to a new studio, including much-needed equipment upgrades and new performance spaces for live-in studio music concerts.

The event will be held under the moniker of “Sonic Springs” and is slated to be an annual concert to bring unique musical performances to the Dayton area. The event is being curated and produced by Eric Mahoney, a filmmaker/producer best known for directing the feature documentary Brainiac: Transmissions After Zero. Eric and his family recently moved to Yellow Springs from Brooklyn, NY.

 

HOW TO GO?

Friday, July 22nd, 2022 at 7:00 pm

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St, Dayton, Ohio)

Food truck on-site: Phat & Rich

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sonic-springs-a-benefit-concert-for-wyso-tickets-304403126947

Joslyn & The Sweet Compression kick off tour at The Brightside

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One of the hottest up-and-coming national acts: Joslyn & The Sweet Compression is kicking off their 2022 tour right here in Dayton. They’ll be performing at The Brightside Music & Event Venue in downtown Dayton, OH (905 E 3rd St) on Thursday, March 3, 2022.

Local legend, Eric Jerardi, kicks off the evening with his band. Doors open at 7pm with music from 7:30-10pm. Tickets $12 advance and $15 day of show. All ages welcome!

What people are saying about Joslyn & The Sweet Compression:

“Magical…gives everybody the joy.” — Billboard Magazine

“A refreshing take on the neo-soul / funk sound, unbound by modern cliches.” — Glide Magazine

“A marvel…an instant classic!” — Soul Tracks

“I’ve never seen a band come up more quickly…with more immediate skill and swagger than Joslyn & the Sweet Compression. Joslyn’s vocal command and stage presence is special, and her band is brick-sh**house tight.” — Travis Young, Moonshiner’s Ball

“The music Joslyn Hampton conjures o-stage is rich with the funk, soul, and rock ’n’ roll inspirations of multiple generations, and at the heart of the brassy attack of her band, The Sweet Compression, and in the clear and confident command of her singing, sits a core element: Groove.” — Walter Tunis, Lexington Herald-Leader

About Joslyn & The Sweet Compression:

After cultivating her dynamic voice and performance skills in backup roles and stage plays, Joslyn Hampton teamed with her stepfather, Marty Charters (a touring guitarist and songwriter who has shared the stage with legends such as Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, and Van Morrison), to compose a captivating set of tunes and assemble an ace band. Joslyn & The Sweet Compression (Marty Charters – guitar, Steve Holloman – keyboards, Smith Donaldson – bass, Rashawn Fleming – drums, Trevin Little – saxophone, and Chase Fleming – trombone and trumpet) combine to deliver a hook-filled mix of funk and soul on their self-titled debut album, released in 2019. A headlining favorite at regional clubs and music festivals, they are poised to engage fans across the country with widespread touring in 2021.

DCDC is “Taking It to the Streets” on Sunday at Levitt Pavilion

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The world-renowned Dayton Contemporary Dance Company invites the community to their 2021-2022 season kickoff party! “Taking It to the Streets” is a free performance on Sunday, August 29, 2021, at 7 pm at Levitt Pavilion in downtown Dayton.

 

For the historic local dance company, being able to host an in-person performance has been a long wait. It’s been a year and a half since their last hometown concert, so they decided to make it a free community celebration. They want to reawaken the city with their dancing, special musical guests, food trucks, and more!

 

“Taking It to the Streets” celebrates the company’s collective energy like no other.  This event combines the summer energy of a street party and the innovation of site-specific performance in an open-air concert for the community. These dancers bring the city to life with new pieces celebrating black joy and global culture. “If joy was a protest, this would be our protest march!”

 

Debbie Blunden-Diggs, the Chief Artistic & Producing Director for DCDC, told us she’s super excited about returning to live performance. “This performance lets us celebrate DCDC’s 53rd season with the community we live in!”

 

DCDC’s 53rd season is entitled Evolve(d), and is self-described as a “shift to black joy, embodied global culture, inspiration towards real change, spiritual awakenings for the soul, and communal metamorphosis, all at once and through the humanity of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.” The line-up for Dayton performances includes the beloved holiday piece “The Littlest Angel,” along with 2022’s “Inside Out,” “Dancing in the Light” and “Soulstice: Mahogany Nights.” For more information about season subscriptions and single tickets, visit dcdc.org. Purchase your subscription before September 15th, 2021 and save 10%.

HOW TO GO?
Performance: “Taking It to the Streets”
Date: August 29, 2021
Time: 7 PM
Cost: Free
Location: Dayton Levitt Pavilion, 134 S. Main Street, Dayton, OH 45402  Directions

Live music is back at The Brightside – featuring locals Gabe Maas, Mariah J, & Isicle

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On June 3rd the mask mandate lifts in Ohio, and that means it’s a lot easier to get back to the fun things we’ve been missing since the pandemic shutdown. One of the types of gatherings people have been missing the most is seeing live music. Local venues, like The Brightside, are excited to be hosting concerts again.

The Brightside started hosting music in 2019, and just as they approached their one-year anniversary, the COVID shutdown went into effect. The independent venue located on East 3rd St, near the corner of Keowee, pivoted to weddings, sold merchandise, and hosted virtual events over the past year.

“We’re grateful to the community for their support during this challenging time,” music booker Libby Ballengee, told us. “Our biggest goal was to keep improving the venue and when it’s safe, get back to hosting music events. Those events are so joyful!”

The improvements have included adding UV filters to the ductwork in order to clean the circulating indoor air. The venue was also able to add a patio, where they can host outdoor concerts.

The venue’s first show back since the mask mandate has been lifted features three up-and-coming local musicians who perform an eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Pop & Electronic music: Mariah J, Gabe Maas & The Bruins, and Isicle. These artists are pushing boundaries in their respective genres, and are thrilled to be performing for Dayton audiences again. This show is planned to be outdoors on patio unless inclement weather.

Learn more about The Brightside’s upcoming shows at: TheBrightsideDayton.com

HOW TO GO:

Where: The Brightside at 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402

When: Thursday June 3, 2021 from 7-10pm

Cost:  $10

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-music-with-mariah-j-gabe-maas-the-bruins-isicle-the-brightside-tickets-156363237653

 

 

Perfect Patios for Pups!

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Enjoy the patio at Wheat Penny with your pup!

It doesn’t get much better than quality time outside with man’s best friend and a cold drink in your hand. With the heatwave over and temperatures falling back to normal, some of our most comfortable patio days are ahead of us. Not sure what patios are dog friendly? Have no fear! Listed below are a few of our favorite canine friendly patios in the area. Be sure to check back as our list is sure to grow:

Dayton:

  • The Barrel House – 417 E. 3rd Street, Dayton
  • The Trolley Stop – 530 E. 5th Street, Dayton
  • Mudlick Tap House – 135 E 2nd Street, Dayton
  • Lily’s Bistro – 329 E. 5th Street, Dayton
  • CoCo’s Bistro – 250 Warren Street, Dayton
  • Dublin Pub – 300 Wayne Avenue, Dayton

    Libby Ballengee enjoys Lily’s Bistro’s front patio with Stella.

  • South Park Tavern – 1301 Wayne Avenue, Dayton
  • Wheat Penny Oven & Bar – 515 Wayne Avenue, Dayton
  • Milano’s  – 1834 Brown Street, Dayton
  • Dayton Beer Company – 41 Madison Street, Dayton

Suburbs:

  • Archers Tavern- 9496 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Centerville
  • Bennett’s – 67 S Main St., Miamisburg
  • El Meson – 903 E Dixie Dr, West Carrollton
  • Flavors Eatery – 865 E. Franklin Street, Centerville
  • Heather’s Cafe – 505 S. Main Street, Springboro
  • Mack’s Tavern – 381 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Centerville
  • Milano’s- 9572 Springboro Pike, Miami Twsp, 260 N Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
  • Mr. Boro’s Tavern – 495 N. Main St., Springboro
  • Ray’s Wine and Spirits Grill – 8268 N. Main Street, Dayton
  • Ritter’s Frozen Custard- 2531 Dayton-Xenia Rd., 2226 Wilmington Pike, Kettering
  • Roma’s Pizza&Pasta – 282 W Central Ave Springboro
  • So Your Yogurt- 971 S Main St, Centerville
  • Ye Olde Trail Tavern – 228 Xenia Avenue, Yellow Springs
  • Zink’s Meats & Fine Wines – 409 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Centerville

Breweries:

  • Branch& Bone Artisian Ales- 905 Wayne Ave, Dayton
  • Crooked Handle Brewing Co.- 60 N. Main Street, Springboro
    Dayton Beer Company – 41 Madison Street, Dayton
  • Devil Wind Brewing – 130 South Detroit Street, Xenia
  • Eudora Brewing Company – 3022 Wilmington Pike, Kettering
  • FigLeaf Brewing Company – 3387 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd, Middletown
  • Fifth Street Brewpub – 1600 E 5th St, Dayton (Dogs allowed Wednesdays only 6-9PM)
  • Lock 27 Brewing – 1035 South Main Street, Centerville
  • Mother Stewart’s Brewing Co – 102 W. Columbia St, Springfield
  • Southern Ohio Brewing – 818 Factory Rd, Beavercreek
  • Star City Brewing Company – 319 S 2nd St, Miamisburg
  • Toxic Brew Company – 431 E. 5th Street, Dayton
  • Warped Wing Barrel Room & Smokery – 25 Wright Station Way, Springboro
  • Yellow Springs Brewery – 305 Walnut Street, Yellow Springs

 

If you know of other pup friendly patios, post them in the comments below so we can add them.

Exciting indie tour at Brightside Sunday Jan 26th

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You know what they say in the live music world: Never miss a Sunday show! This Sunday, January 26th is certainly one of those instances. BravoArtist is bringing an exciting indie tour to The Brightside Music & Event Venue featuring the up-and-coming pop-rock band Mike Mains & The Branches.

Mike Mains and The Branches is a pop-rock band based in Michigan. Since their conception in 2012, the group has built a reputation for their fantastical instrumentation and unforgettable live performances. Mains began writing songs early in his career between shifts at a casino, which is an apt illustration of Mains perspective on life: it’s a comedy, a tragedy, and a fairytale. (Check out their music for yourself at link below).

A big bonus to this particular show: three amazing area bands kicking off an evening of live music: Gabe Maas and the Bruins, The American Landscape and Year of the Buffalo. The best  part? The value. Tickets are only $13 advance, $15 day of show. Such a deal for this amount of raw musical talent!

How to Go?

Where: The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St, Dayton)

When: Sunday, January 26, 2020. Doors 6pm. Show 7pm.

Who: All ages welcome! Handicapped accessible. On site parking.

Cost: $13 advance. $15 day of show. 

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mike-mains-the-branches-at-brightside-126-tickets-86353751395

 

 

 

The Asylum’s Industrial Dance Club Reunites Friday November 29th!

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If you came of age in the Dayton area in the late 90s / early 2000s, there is a good chance you hung out at the Asylum! It was the quintessential alternative club that pumped out the latest industrial dance music. Definitely one of the coolest places to be seen in those days!

The club is no longer there but the spirit lives on! The Asylum Reunion grows in numbers every single year, with last year’s reunion being the biggest turnout with over 300 people through the door! Organizers and DJ’s Matt Freeman and Eric Heilman are thrilled to have been a part of such an incredible club, and then 20 years later still have the opportunity to again gather with such an incredible and fun group of Daytonians!

The latest reunion is happening Friday November 29, 2019 with a pre-party at Barrel House from 7-9pm. After 9pm, the party kicks into high gear at Therapy Cafe. Just a $5 cover to re-live all those awesome memories!  If you’re new to the scene, no worries, you are more than welcome too!

Bonus! To get into the mood of this dance party – there is a Spotify playlist just for you!

HOW TO GO?

Official Preparty
The Barrel House, 417 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
7-9PM | 21+ Welcome

Asylum Reunion
Therapy Cafe, 452 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
9 PM DOORS | 18+ WELCOME
$5 COVER

Dayton Porchfest offers free music in a beautiful neighborhood!

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Dayton Porchfest is an annual event occurring the final Saturday of August in St Anne’s Hill. PHOTO BY LIBBY BALLENGEE

Dayton Porchfest is back for a third year! It’s a day where music fills the streets and porches of St Anne’s Hill, one of Dayton’s most charming historic neighborhoods. It’s a free, family friendly event that runs from 1:30-7pm on Saturday August 24, 2019.

​Dayton has a rich musical history and active music scene, which continues today. Dayton Porchfest is committed to reflecting that in its selection of musical artists, from funk and blues to indie rock and jazz, classical and country, to bluegrass and old timey that has deep Appalachian traditions here. The event also celebrates the ethnic diversity of the region, a reflection of our “Welcome Dayton” spirit that has contributed to a significant influx of immigrants and refugees over the past decade.

​Dayton Porchfest is an initiative of The Collaboratory, a civic innovation lab that moves ideas to action. The Collaboratory provides infrastructure for people and organizations to collaboratively develop community initiatives that generate new economic, civic and creative opportunities and value. The result is a healthier, more thriving region. All proceeds from Dayton Porchfest go to support the work of The Collaboratory.

How to Go?

When: Saturday August 24, 2019. 1:30pm kickoff. 2-7pm music. Link to full . schedule – click here or see below

Where: Throughout St Anne’s Historic Neighborhood (E 5th St, just east of Keowee). Link to map – click here or see below

Who: All ages welcome!

Cost: Free (tips for musicians accepted!)