Showing posts with label st james park. Show all posts
Showing posts with label st james park. Show all posts

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Levitt San Jose Brings Free Hip-Hop Night to St. James Park

Levitt San Jose is continuing its tradition of free live music in Downtown San Jose at St. James Park. The organization has lined up a strong 2026 series that brings diverse artists to the park from May through September.

On Sunday, July 26 at 4:30 p.m. the spotlight turns to hip-hop with Kev Choice and his ensemble presenting the music of A Tribe Called Quest along with new material and original work. Kev Choice, a pianist, composer, and producer who has collaborated with artists including Lauryn Hill, E-40, and Ledisi, will blend jazz, hip-hop, soul, and improvisation in fresh arrangements that honor the iconic group while showcasing his own artistry.

The performance goes beyond a simple tribute by celebrating the lasting cultural impact of A Tribe Called Quest and the way music connects generations. Audiences can expect dynamic takes on classics, instrumental interpretations, and an immersive experience that appeals to longtime fans and newcomers alike.

The full series includes other standout nights such as a Prince tribute in August and a salsa evening co-presented with MACLA, all set against the backdrop of St. James Park with food trucks, a beer and wine garden, and activities for kids. These events reflect ongoing efforts to build community through music while momentum builds toward the permanent Levitt Pavilion.

Details for all upcoming free concerts are available at levittsanjose.org.

Thursday, June 11, 2026

Free Live Music Returns to St. James Park for an Unforgettable June Lineup

The John Santos Sextet will play a free concert on June 20, spotlighted Latin jazz in St. James Park. This multi Grammy nominee and his ensemble will explore the historical threads and improvisational fire of styles from Cuba, Puerto Rico and wider Latin America. Scheduled openers are Future Dead Ringers and Bloco do Sol. The full program invites all ages to enjoy food trucks alongside a beer and wine garden in the open air setting.

June 21 will deliver a high energy celebration of Father s Day, Make Music Day and global soccer excitement. Los Rakas will bring their signature Panamanian mix of hip hop, plena, reggae and dancehall to the stage as headliners. The Grammy nominated duo, known for empowering narratives and collaborations with artists across genres, will headline a day that also features Kaefan, RogĂȘ and local DJs such as Mumbai Rani.

Further dates in the series will extend the momentum with themes ranging from lowrider Souldies to Prince tributes and salsa instruction. Co presentations with groups like MACLA and CUKUI ensure each weekend reflects the breadth of San Jose artistic voices.

These gatherings in a green space steps from Downtown San Jose reinforce how shared music experiences foster connection across neighborhoods. With every free event, the Levitt San Jose initiative demonstrates the power of accessible arts to energize community life and lay groundwork for a lasting cultural landmark.

For the complete schedule, volunteer opportunities, or to support the pavilion project, visit levittsanjose.org.