The Sporting Life: Free Jazz and Cool Country Edition

Thomas Cain

The 7th Season Of Nashville’s Jazz On The Cumberland Concert Series kicks off with their annual “Mother’s Day Edition” on Sunday May 13th. They will feature a live performance by the renowned Thomas Cain Quartet and also a special guest youth opening act. The free event is held at the Nashville Cumberland Park, overlooking the scenic Downtown Skyline, next to Nissan Stadium. Parking is available for only $5 In Lots R & T.

This year they have added more food trucks (several with vegan and gluten-free options), along with more beverage and snack stations. Plus there’s a fun Kids Play Zone. Just bring your favorite lawn chair or blanket, and kick back with area residents, tourists, and music afficionados alike.

The Food Truck Island opens at 4:00 pm and the music plays from 5:30-8:00 pm on Sunday May 13th. This is the perfect way to wind down after the Heroes and Villains Fan Fest in the Music City Center this weekend! Nashville’s Jazz On The Cumberland Concert series is presented by Victor Chatman Productions and Metro Nashville Parks and Recreation. For more info, call 615-731-9001.

This monthly free, family-friendly jazz concert series has some policies to note: No Large Umbrellas, No Tents, No Alcoholic Beverages Allowed, All Bags-Coolers Subject To Inspection. Mark your calendars now for the five more dates this series: June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, and October 21.

The Cowan, located on the lower level of the Topgolf entertainment venue has become a desirable destination spot for live music in its first year of operation. I was really impressed with their friendly staff and cool vibe. During the winter The Cowan hosted two sold-out shows by Dr. Funkenstein himself, George Clinton, and recently Sir Mix-a-Lot.

Monday, May 7 The Cowan hosted a night of cool country with two talented performers. Kiefer Sutherland headlined, and his two-hour set was phenomenal! He ripped straight through almost twenty songs, peppered with personal insights and info. Most of the songs were his original and (semi) autobiographical compositions. He is touring in support of his sophomore record, “Reckless,” a follow up to last year’s “Down in a Hole.”

Opening for Kiefer, Rick Brantley gave a moving half-hour of originals along with a cover of Otis Redding’s “Try A Little Tenderness.” I was truly moved by his “Hurt People” and I strongly recommend that you look it up online and give it a listen. Brantley performed without a band, while Kiefer’s band had two additional guitarists, a bass player and a jamming (female) drummer.

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