See YINZ there- Three Rivers Arts Festival

I can't imagine a more beautiful setting for an outdoor gathering celebrating music and art than at the point of the rivers with the skyline of Pittsburgh as the backdrop and the majestic Heinz Field adorning the north shore. The 10 day absolutely free festival right downtown Pittsburgh begins tomorrow, June 6. It is a celebration of the arts, music and live performances at Point State Park, the Cultural District and Gateway Center.

This event is unlike any other in the nation because it is absolutely free. Thanks to generous donations from individuals, foundations and local corporations that support the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust we are able to celebrate the arts with no ticket needed to enter! But I do advise bringing some cash because there will be delicious food vendors (including Food Trucks on both Fridays), the coolest handmade jewelry, merchandise and of course unique art for sell.

I'm personally thrilled to see Jeff Tweedy, record producer, solo artist and most well known for his lead vocals in the band Wilco, at the festival. He will be performing June 6th at 7:30 on the Dollar Bank Stage.

Other artists include the Kaiser Chiefs, Trampled by Turtles, Sam Bush, Curtis Harding and many more. Our own Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra will host a live performance as well.

Not only will there be music performances but there will be live art exhibits, activities for children and so much more.

For more information and to see the full schedule of events check out the festival's website: http://www.3riversartsfest.org/.

Hope to see yinz there!

Definitely, "Count Me In"- Rebelution.

It's honestly been years, my friends, since a band has caught my attention and cured my proverbial music ADHD where I have to change an artist after every song or continuously keep my iTunes songs on shuffle. Not only am I stuck on this band, but I have one of their tracks off their newest record on repeat today.

Rebelution. They are a mix of reggae and rock and hail from California where music like that seems to grow as easy as the palm trees do. But this band stands out.

Their 4th studio album, Count Me In, will be released on June 10th but you can listen to it early HERE. Pandora Radio really surprised me today when I realized they are doing a new thing called "Pandora Premieres" where they stream a band's new album shortly before the release absolutely free.

Hours later, I can not get track 6 off of repeat. "Fade Away" is absolutely beautiful. The beat reminds of instrumental band El Ten Eleven except Rebelution has lyrics and their lyrics are gripping. "I know this won't last forever, but I wish this would last forever."

This album will definitely be in my iTunes library forever and I hope to check them out on their tour this summer with another one of my newest favorite jam bands Iration.

Follow them on twitter @RebelutionMusic to keep up to date with future announcements.

Jordan York- Pittsburgh Park Tour

I love nothing more than connecting with local Pittsburgh artists. Jordan York was born in Miami but raised in the 412 is not only a local rapper and musician but an all around entertainer.

We talked about my goal to get the music scene in Pittsburgh on a bigger level and he is one step ahead of me. This summer Jordan York will be doing a tour where he is going to all of the big parks in Pittsburgh including his last stop at Pittsburgh Pirate's home at PNC Park.

"I think this summer tour will be different and the people of Pittsburgh will like it because it's free and outdoors. It's a way for me to gain more fans and connect with my city," said Jordan.

Check out Jordan York where you can find links to his Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels where his singles have been released. Also on his YouTube page are videos of him entertaining the people of the steel city. I recommend checking out his "It's always sunny in Pittsburgh" spoof.

"I just feel you gotta go out and have fun with what you do and that's why I'm always out and about in Pittsburgh."

I was impressed by his sound. He's biggest influence growing up was his father.
"He always listened to The Temptations and Boyz II Men around me."

You can definitely tell his lyrical talent when listening to his song "Girl Tomorrow."

York also remixed Lorde's "Royals" and added a twist of his signature hip hop sound to it.

He was recently nominated for best pop artist and best live performance for the Pittsburgh Underground Music Awards. Check out Jordan York and then VOTE FOR HIM before this Saturday May 31st at midnight.


And don't forget to stop by and enjoy some of his shows absolutely free in the city this summer. Bring a blanket, some snacks and check out this upcoming star out of the Steel City.