Live Music For Every Taste

Want catchy pop tunes? Soothing classical instrumentals? Energetic rock anthems? Our counties have a concert for everyone.

Sometimes the music sets the mood—and sometimes your mood picks the music. Who hasn’t queued up a “Driving Jams” playlist before hitting the road or cranked up an upbeat mix to power through a workout? The right soundtrack has a way of making every moment just a little more memorable.

The same goes for live music. Some nights call for singing along at the top of your lungs to classic hits, while others are better spent relaxing under the stars with mellow acoustic tunes or smooth jazz. Fortunately, Morris and Essex counties deliver all of the above. From talented local bands and crowd-pleasing tribute acts to nationally known performers, there’s no shortage of great live music to enjoy all summer long. For example:

For chill vibes. If you’re looking for summer sounds, talented musicians and community vibes, head over to Ginty Field Gazebo in Morris Plains every Tuesday at 7 p.m. for the Outdoor Concert Series. Bring your own chair or blanket, settle down and hear everything from a wind symphony to a recreation of a 70s AM Radio Show. For a similar energy, check out Summer Concerts in Taylor Park in Millburn on July 16 and 23 at 7 p.m. Or head to the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series in Morristown, where singer-songwriters and folk artists from near and far show off their best.

For high energy. For live music and a bustling downtown, Maplewood is the place to be with its Gazebo Summer Concert Series, which returns for another year. For five Fridays starting July 17, stroll the shops, grab a bite or bring a chair and take a seat while you enjoy soul, rock, country and more. Or head over to one of Essex’s many parks, which also host lively gatherings throughout the summer. On July 15 in Newark’s Vailsburg Park at 7 p.m., catch an evening of East Coast Soul. On July 22 at Grover Cleveland Park in Caldwell at 7 p.m., get nostalgic with Nine Deeez Nite: The ’90s Experience. A full day of music and fun? The Jazz Festival comes to Monte Irvin Orange Park, Orange on July 18.

For classical sounds. Craving softer sounds? The Morris Museum in Morristown’s Back Deck concert series is back bringing refined sounds right to your backyard. On July 25, stop by and catch a performance by the legendary Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. They will be playing a program that includes Mozart, Debussy, Borodin and others; the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Or you can stop by Van Vleck House & Gardens in Montclair on July 23 for a Ulysses Quartet Concert at 7 p.m. The show will bring together classical favorites, contemporary works and traditional folk melodies.

For big names. Morris and Essex’s big stages draw incredible talent here from around the world, and there’s no better time to take advantage. Check out Grammy-winning music industry lifer (and part-time Grateful Dead member) Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown on July 27 at 8 p.m. Jazz piano legend Herbie Hancock comes to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark on July 31 at 8 p.m. At Newark’s Prudential Center, see pop star Benson Boone on July 12 at 8 p.m. or worldwide icon Shakira on July 15 at 8:30 p.m.

For rising stars. Check out these shows, and you just might catch the next big thing. Morristown’s The Laundromat stages live music from local up-and-coming bands nearly every weekend (keep your eye out for theme nights). Montclair Brewery in Montclair does the same every Friday (check out local favorites Mea and Company on July 17 at 7 p.m.). For completely fresh voices and chance to hear something totally new, you can stop by one of the many open mics held all over Morris and Essex.

Which summer concerts are you attending? Make sure you tell us all about it in Instagram @morrisandessexmag.