Music lovers in Memphis, brace yourselves for a symphony of free concerts slated to sweep across the historic Overton Park Shell. The 2024 Orion FCU Free Concert Series, starting May through June and picking up again from August until October, promises a tuneful summer and fall with a lineup that's as hot as the Memphis barbeque. According to Action News 5, audiences can catch acts like Sister Hazel and the homegrown sounds of Aaron James, not to forget Memphis' own Stax Music Academy and the Memphis Harvest Band.

As the mercury climbs, there's more than just the temperature getting folks in Memphis excited. Outdoor venues, not limited to the Overton Park Shell but extending tendrils out to The Grove and the BankPlus Amphitheater, guarantee there’s no shortage of live entertainment under the open skies. The Commercial Appeal has the rundown on venues and shows that are a must-see, including the series of 34 free performances set to kick off from May 17 through Oct. 12, undergoing a break in the middle.

Overton Park Shell's Executive Director Natalie Wilson, aiming to stir the melting pot of genres, declared a bold mission. "This year, we are crossing all genres and creative programming to give access to The Shell’s mission boldly and without barriers, with special emphasis on Memphis artists,” Wilson said in a statement obtained by the Action News 5. Among the crowd-pleasers are the Tennessee Mass Choir and BODYWERK, a debut electronic dance event, ready to dial up the vibes to eleven.

The fall is seasoned with performances echoing Memphis' prolific music heritage. The season features headliners like the legendary Bar-Kays, marking 60 years of groove in September, as well as a slew of local and regional talent. According to the Memphis Flyer, expect the stage to sizzle with acts such as Lukah with Hope Clayburn & The Fire Salamander, Cyrena Wages, and Healy, not mentioning Aaron James who will be making an appearance alongside the Memphis Harvest Band and North Mississippi Allstars.