Free R&B Concert Series Returns to Atlantic City
The National R&B Music Society will kick off its 2025 Free Summer Concerts at Gardner’s Basin on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 7:30 PM, bringing Atlantic City’s legendary rhythm and blues scene to life. The free outdoor event, taking place at 800 N. New Hampshire Avenue adjacent to the Atlantic City Aquarium, features performances by the Ty Turner Band, Cason Express Show Band with SiSi Dash, and Judah Dorrington & Paradise, according to the North to Shore Festival website.
The sun-soaked celebration, part of the Prudential North to Shore Festival, continues the society’s tradition of highlighting both established performers and emerging talent while honoring Atlantic City’s rich musical heritage. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, coolers, and umbrellas for this community event that transforms the scenic waterfront location into an open-air concert venue.
Showcasing Atlantic City’s R&B Legacy
The National R&B Music Society has worked for over two decades to preserve and promote rhythm and blues music through concerts, educational programs, and community events. Their Summer Concerts at Gardner’s Basin have become a staple of Atlantic City’s cultural calendar, drawing attendees from across the region.
“Atlantic City has a profound but often overlooked R&B heritage,” explains society president Thyrone Brooks in a recent Press of Atlantic City interview. “From Club Harlem in its heyday to contemporary performers keeping the tradition alive, this city has always been a hub for soul music. Our mission is to celebrate that legacy while creating opportunities for today’s artists.”
The organization’s commitment to both preservation and innovation is evident in the diverse lineup, which spans multiple generations and stylistic approaches to R&B. By featuring both veteran performers and rising local talent, the event creates a comprehensive portrait of the genre’s past, present, and future in Atlantic City.
Diverse Lineup Spans R&B Spectrum
Leading this year’s performers is the versatile Ty Turner Band, known for repertoire that spans decades of soul-stirring hits from classic R&B to contemporary funk. Their comprehensive approach to the genre provides an ideal opening for the day’s musical journey.
The Cason Express Show Band featuring SiSi Dash brings what promoters describe as “high-voltage” energy to the middle of the lineup. According to Philadelphia Weekly, their recent performances have earned acclaim for combining traditional showmanship with contemporary musical approaches, creating an irresistible dance atmosphere that appeals to audiences across generations.
Completing the scheduled lineup is Judah Dorrington & Paradise, whose fusion of R&B, jazz, and funk creates a sophisticated sound ideal for a summer evening by the water. Their performance will likely showcase material from their recent recordings alongside classic covers that highlight the group’s musical versatility.
Idyllic Setting Enhances Experience
Gardner’s Basin provides a picturesque backdrop for the performances, with its maritime atmosphere and waterfront views creating a distinctive concert experience. The location, adjacent to the Atlantic City Aquarium, offers attendees the opportunity to combine the concert with other family-friendly activities in the area.
The outdoor setting accommodates the community-focused nature of the event, with attendees encouraged to bring their own seating and refreshments. This approach creates an inclusive atmosphere where music lovers can gather regardless of economic circumstances, fulfilling the society’s mission of making R&B accessible to the broadest possible audience.
The venue’s history as a gathering place for Atlantic City residents adds another layer of significance to the event, connecting current musical celebrations to the city’s longstanding tradition of public entertainment along its waterways.
Festival Context
The Summer Concerts at Gardner’s Basin event is part of the broader Prudential North to Shore Festival running from June 14-29 across multiple New Jersey locations. The multi-city festival features programming in Atlantic City, Newark, and Asbury Park, celebrating New Jersey’s artistic and cultural contributions.
This particular event demonstrates the festival’s commitment to including free, family-friendly programming that makes arts accessible to all community members. As one of several festival events in Atlantic City, the concert helps highlight the city’s cultural offerings beyond its well-known casino entertainment.
Additional information about the National R&B Music Society’s Summer Concerts at Gardner’s Basin can be found on the North to Shore Festival website. As a free event, no tickets are required, but early arrival is recommended for optimal seating choices.
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