SUMMERFEST @ Henri Maier Festival Park – Milwaukee, WI
June 30th – July 2nd, 2022
Review by Rick Kramer
Photos by David Urmanski
After a successful 2022 kickoff to “The World’s Largest Music Festival” just a week ago, Summerfest gave visiting attendees round two of the fun-filled three-day music celebration with high-expectations after an amazing week one experience. The festivities continued for the Big Gig and, as expected, week two did not disappoint. Summerfest executed a superb follow-up to week one with themed amusement, sensational food and beverage and much, much more music. Highlighted artists performing during week two included several favorites among the wide-variety of music genres showcased during the 2022 festival:
MACHINE GUN KELLY – The multi-platinum selling artist has embarked on his first ever arena tour and made a stop at Milwaukee’s very own American Family Insurance Amphitheater Friday night along with direct supporting artist Avril Lavigne and opening act Iann Dior. The genre-bending performer has amassed over 15.5 billion streams online and sold over 10 million album units.
Produced by Live Nation, the North American leg of the tour kicked off in June at Moody Center in Austin, making stops in Miami, Boston, Phoenix, Los Angeles and more before wrapping up in Cleveland at FirstEnergy Stadium on August 13th.
THIRD EYE BLIND – The summer air was thick with anticipation as fans gathered at the UScellular Connection Stage for one of the most highly anticipated performances of the Summerfest festival. Third Eye Blind, the iconic alternative rock band, took the stage on July 2, 2022, delivering a night of pure musical magic and nostalgic energy that left the crowd in awe.
As the clock struck 10 pm, the stage lit up with a kaleidoscope of colorful lights, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. The band members, led by the charismatic frontman Stephan Jenkins, emerged to thunderous applause and wasted no time in launching into their set with explosive energy.
From the very first chords of “Ways,” it was evident that Third Eye Blind was here to deliver an unforgettable performance. The crowd erupted into a frenzy, singing along to every word as Jenkins’ powerful vocals soared through the air. The band’s chemistry on stage was palpable, as they effortlessly transitioned from one hit to another, creating an energetic and seamless flow.
Throughout the night, Third Eye Blind showcased their impressive catalog of hits, ensuring that both longtime fans and newcomers were thoroughly entertained. Songs like “Jumper,” “Graduate,” and “Motorcycle Drive By” ignited a wave of nostalgia, transporting the audience back to the late ’90s and early 2000s when these anthems ruled the airwaves.
What made this performance truly special was the band’s ability to infuse their classic hits with fresh and contemporary energy. Newer tracks like “Box of Bones” and “Dust Storm” seamlessly blended with the beloved fan favorites, demonstrating Third Eye Blind’s enduring relevance in the ever-evolving music landscape.
Stephan Jenkins commanded the stage with his magnetic presence, engaging the audience with his vibrant personality and heartfelt storytelling. He took a few moments between songs to reflect on the band’s journey, sharing personal anecdotes that deepened the connection between the musicians and their devoted fans. It was clear that Third Eye Blind understood the importance of their music to their audience, and they were genuinely grateful for the continued support over the years.
At the festival grounds were ready to call it a night for the sixth time in 2022, Third Eye Blind left the stage, but not before treating the crowd to an encore that left everyone craving for more. They returned for two final songs, their smash hits “Semi-Charmed Life” and “How’s It Going to Be”, ending the evening with excitement and energy.
THE COMMODORES – Music lovers flocked to the Uline Warehouse Summerfest to witness a legendary performance by The Commodores. The sun had already set and the stage lights illuminated the outdoor venue for an unforgettable night of soulful melodies and infectious rhythms.
Opening the show with an explosion of energy, The Commodores took the stage with a charismatic presence that immediately captivated the crowd. Led by the dynamic lead vocalist J.D. Nicholas, the band wasted no time in transporting the audience back in time to the heyday of funk and soul. From the moment they launched into their iconic hit “I Feel Sanctified,” the entire venue erupted with cheers and applause, setting the tone for an electrifying performance.
Throughout the evening, The Commodores showcased their exceptional musicianship and tight-knit chemistry. The band effortlessly transitioned between funky grooves and heartfelt ballads, ensuring there was something for everyone in attendance. The talented instrumentalists, including the silky-smooth saxophone solos and the grooving bass lines, were met with uproarious applause after each solo. It was clear that these musicians were masters of their craft and were genuinely enjoying every moment on stage.
In addition to their iconic hits, The Commodores also treated the audience to some lesser-known gems from their extensive catalog. Songs like “Sweet Love” and “Nightshift” showcased the band’s versatility and their ability to evoke a range of emotions. The soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, who could be seen swaying and singing along throughout the entire set.
The production value of the concert was top-notch, with a stunning light show and impeccable sound quality. The Uline Warehouse Summerfest provided the perfect backdrop for The Commodores’ performance, with its spacious outdoor setting and state-of-the-art equipment.
The Commodores left the stage to a standing ovation and thunderous applause by finishing their set with the iconic “Brick House.” The band gave their all, pouring their hearts and souls into each and every song, and the audience left smiles on their faces and a renewed love for timeless music.
THE VILLAGE PEOPLE – The Village People brought their iconic brand of disco and flamboyant performances to the BMO Harris Pavilion at Summerfest on July 2, 2022, captivating the audience with their timeless hits and infectious energy. Many long-time fans shared their love of the band with each other, and it was evident they were thrilled to witness a live performance, and they did not leave disappointed.
From the moment the Village People took the stage, the crowd erupted in excitement. Dressed in their signature outfits, each member embodied their respective personas, adding a touch of nostalgia to the evening. The atmosphere was electric as the group kicked off the show with 1977’s, “Fire Island.” The audience enthusiastically joined in, dancing and singing.
Throughout the night, the Village People delivered a non-stop party, keeping the crowd on their feet and dancing. Hits like “Macho Man,” “In the Navy,” and “Go West” had the entire venue pulsating with energy. The band’s stage presence was remarkable, with choreographed dance routines and charismatic interactions with the audience.
The Village People closed the set with their ultimate crowd-pleaser, “Y.M.C.A.”. The entire audience was dancing while forming the iconic YMCA letters with their arms and singing along with the infectious chorus.
WAR – WAR is an American funk/rock/soul band from Long Beach, California, known for several hit songs (including “Spill the Wine”, “The World Is a Ghetto”, “The Cisco Kid”, “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”, “Low Rider”, and “Summer”). Formed in 1969, War is a musical crossover band that fuses elements of rock, funk, jazz, Latin, rhythm and blues, psychedelia, and reggae. According to music writer Colin Larkin, their “potent fusion of funk, R&B, rock and Latin styles produced a progressive soul sound”, while Martin C. Strong calls them “one of the fiercest progressive soul combos of the ’70s”. Their album The World Is a Ghetto was Billboard’s best-selling album of 1973. The band transcended racial and cultural barriers with a multi-ethnic line-up. War was subject to many line-up changes over the course of its existence, leaving member Leroy “Lonnie” Jordan as the only original member in the current line-up.
BLUE OYSTER CULT – Uline Warehouse Summerfest reached new heights of rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia as Blue Öyster Cult took the stage on July 1, 2022. The legendary band, known for their timeless hits and captivating live performances, left the crowd at Uline Warehouse in awe. With a combination of electrifying energy, exceptional musicianship, and a setlist that spanned their illustrious career, Blue Öyster Cult proved once again why they are regarded as pioneers of the genre.
As the band took the stage the audience erupted in anticipation, their cheers growing louder with each passing second. Suddenly, the opening chords of “Dr. Music” filled the air, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. From the very beginning, it was evident that the band had lost none of their prowess over the years. Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser’s guitar solos were as mesmerizing as ever, his fingers gliding effortlessly across the fretboard. Eric Bloom’s powerful vocals soared through the venue, resonating with the crowd’s nostalgic hearts.
Blue Öyster Cult effortlessly weaved their way through a carefully curated setlist, which showcased both their greatest hits and deeper cuts. Classics like “Burnin’ for You” and “Godzilla” had the audience singing along at the top of their lungs, their enthusiasm palpable. The band’s chemistry on stage was undeniable, each member locked in perfect sync with one another, creating a wall of sound that engulfed the venue. It was a testament to their enduring camaraderie and musicianship honed over decades.
One standout moment of the evening was the haunting rendition of “Don’t Fear the Reaper.” The song’s ethereal opening riff captivated the crowd, and when the iconic cowbell struck, cheers erupted throughout the warehouse. The band’s ability to recreate the song’s iconic atmosphere in a live setting was truly remarkable, sending chills down the spines of those in attendance.
Throughout the performance, the band members exuded an infectious energy, interacting with the audience and creating a sense of unity. They connected with both longtime fans and newcomers alike, bridging the generational gap through their timeless music. The stage was adorned with an impressive light show, enhancing the already powerful atmosphere and immersing the crowd in a captivating visual experience.
ULTRAVOX’S MIDGE URE – The iconic British musician Midge Ure took to the stage at the Generac Power Stage during Summerfest, captivating the audience with his powerful vocals and electrifying performance. The evening was filled with a nostalgic energy as fans gathered to witness the legendary frontman of Ultravox deliver a memorable concert.
Ure wasted no time in taking the audience on a musical journey through his extensive career. From the opening chords of “Dear God,” his charting single as a solo artist, it was clear that Midge Ure’s voice had lost none of its power over the years. His vocals soared effortlessly, captivating everyone in attendance and transporting them back to the height of the new wave era.
Throughout the evening, Ure expertly curated a setlist that showcased his versatility as a songwriter and performer. From the infectious energy of “Dancing with Tears in My Eyes” to the introspective beauty of “Fade to Grey,” he effortlessly shifted between different musical styles, showcasing his ability to captivate the audience with both upbeat anthems and heartfelt ballads.
The band accompanying Ure on stage was equally impressive. Their tight musicianship and undeniable chemistry provided a solid foundation for the singer’s captivating presence. Each instrument, whether it was the pulsating bass lines or the soaring synthesizers, added layers of depth to the performance, transporting the audience back in time to the golden age of new wave music.
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THE VENUE: HENRI MAIER FESTIVAL PARK Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance has evolved into what is now recognized as “The World’s Largest Music Festival” and Milwaukee’s cornerstone summer celebration, hosting the music industry’s biggest acts, emerging talent, and local favorites along with approximately 750,000 fans, for an unforgettable live music experience. The 53rd edition of the festival will take place September 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18, 2021. Summerfest features over 1,000 performances on 11 stages, along with food, beverages, and activities, all in a world-class festival setting. For more details, visit Summerfest.com, or Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @Summerfest. Address: 200 N Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Website: www.Summerfest.com Tickets: Get Tickets Parking: Reserve Your Parking
