Chicago is truly a tale of two cities. On the one hand, the media often highlights our struggles with violence, political turmoil, and social divides, especially in the current charged political climate with Joe Biden stepping down, JB Pritzker as a potential running mate for Kamala Harris, and the upcoming presidential election. Yet, on the other hand, there is an undeniable spirit of resilience, creativity, and boundless love that defines us. The latter was on full display during the 20th-anniversary celebration at Millennium Park, where the beauty and vibrancy of "Summertime Chi" took center stage.
The evening began with an exclusive VIP reception at the Impresario Tent, which 9TEA3.com had the privilege of attending due to our sponsorship of the event. Millennium Park’s stunning skyline, the shimmering Bean, and the grandeur of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion created a perfect backdrop. The air was filled with anticipation and the unmistakable aroma of Chicago's famed hot dogs and pizza.
As the sun set, a warm 80-degree breeze from Lake Michigan embraced the crowd. Mayor Brandon Johnson sat front and center, a testament to the importance of this event for the city. Common, Chicago's native son, took the stage alongside the Grant Park Orchestra, under the skilled baton of Anthony Parnther. The fusion of hip-hop and classical music created a powerful soundscape that resonated deeply with the audience.
Common kicked off the night with "Day Dreamin'" from his new album The Auditorium Vol. 1, a collaboration with Pete Rock, who watched proudly from the front row. His background singers, harmonizing perfectly, started with the chorus, setting a soulful tone. The performance flowed seamlessly, with Common delivering hits like "The Corner" and "Southside," each song a tribute to Chicago’s streets and stories. DJ Dummy, Common’s longtime DJ, added layers of depth to each performance, orchestrating the beats with finesse.
Common, dressed in crisp white pants and a matching vest, brought an infectious energy to the stage. "We came to party, Chicago!" he shouted, embodying the celebratory spirit of the evening. His shoutouts to local streets like Stony Island, 87th street, etc. during "The Corner" resonated with the audience, making them feel the deep connection between his music and our lives. I grew up in the same neighborhood as Common so I too possess a, “Stone Isle Profile,’ as Common often says.
The night took a fun and freeing turn when States Attorney Kim Foxx raised her hand and was chosen to join Common on stage. Although he knows her, Common jokingly assured the crowd that her coming to the stage was not planned. The spontaneity continued as Common performed an off-the-top-of-the-dome freestyle that wowed Cabrini Green’s own Miss Foxx and everyone else in attendance, showcasing his mastery as a true MC. This led into "Come Close," at the two Chicago natives flexed their stepping skills, showcasing unity, joy, and Chi culture
Common’s performance was a love letter to Chicago, acknowledging its struggles while emphasizing solidarity and hope. "We have to use our power to vote. We are all in this together. It takes all of us," he reminded us, resonating deeply with the crowd.
Mayor Brandon Johnson received a heartfelt shoutout from Common, thanking him for his efforts to improve the city and reminding us all of the importance of coming together. As Common’s set continued, the energy only grew. Highlights included "I Used to Love H.E.R." and "Testify," the latter seamlessly mixed with Prince’s "Darling Nikki," creating an electrifying blend of musical genres. Common paid tribute to Chicago legend Chaka Khan with "I Know You, I Live You," honored hip-hop icons Snoop, Dr. Dre, and A Tribe Called Quest with snippets of "Nothing but a G Thang" and "Scenario," and elevated the energy with "Get Em High," raising hands and vibrations high into the night.
At one point, Common took a moment to sit down in a chair, a black book in hand, and read poetry that was both powerful and poignant. His reading of "Young, Gifted, and Black" was particularly moving, a message that our young people need to hear and live. It's a reminder that we all need these messages, to inspire us and keep us grounded in our identity and potential.
One of the night’s peaks began with Posdnuos joining Common on stage for "When The Sun Shines Again" from The Auditorium Vol. 1, featuring Pete Rock and Bilal, creating a tapestry of sound that was both nostalgic and forward-looking. This set the stage for a touching tribute as Maseo from De La Soul and Talib Kweli joined in. Together, they paid homage to their fallen member, Dave, with a heartfelt rendition of "Me, Myself, and I," where the crowd joined in on the part we all know. If you know then you know and this amplified the moment of unity and remembrance.
Jennifer Hudson’s powerful performances on "Glory" and "A God (There Is)" were showstoppers, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Common also paid homage to Donny Hathaway, Wu-Tang Clan, and the Notorious B.I.G., bridging the past and present of music. As the evening drew to a close, she joined Common and all the artists on stage for "The Light." The audience transformed into a harmonious choir, sang along to the heartfelt lyrics: "There are times when you need someone, I will be by your side, oh darling, there is a light that shines, special for you and me." It was a beautiful and awe-inspiring end to a night that captured the true essence of Chicago.
Common counted down to a stunning fireworks display that illuminated the sky, a fitting finale to an unforgettable evening. He gave heartfelt shoutouts to the Grant Park Orchestra, the amazing band that accompanied them, DJ Dummy, and everyone who joined him on stage, as well as the city and its people.
Pete Rock captured the essence of the evening on Instagram, "Sat dead in front 😆 Concert was sooo good! @common did such a great job @ Millennium Park in Chicago! He put it down for his hometown and we joined him on stage towards the end. S/O to @djdummy for killin the 1&2’s man it was special and glad I stayed to experience it and be a part of it. I love da chi 😎❤️🫡." Comedian Kev on Stage echoed this sentiment, "Chicago has the best downtown of any major US city TO ME. Walkable, restaurants, the river, shopping, skyline. The concert was free, in the park, and glorious."
This concert was a reflection of what 9tea3.com stands for—community, culture, and the power of bringing people together. As Chicago natives, Cyd and I understand the importance of such events in bridging gaps and fostering unity. Special thanks to Emily and Jennifer from the Grant Park Music Festival team, whose efforts made the night possible. Supported by Capital One, this concert showcased the spirit of resilience and collaboration.
Libations flowed, the scent of Chicago’s iconic hot dogs and pizza filled the air, and the diverse crowd, dressed to impress or in casual comfort, reveled in the magic of the night. It was a true melting pot, proving that Chicago still has "Soul by the Pound."
Despite the media’s focus on our city’s challenges, this night was a reminder of what Chicago truly is—a city of resilience, creativity, and boundless love. Here’s to many more nights that capture the spirit of "Summertime Chi" and remind us of what Chicago is and what it can be. Until the next time, Peace, Prosperity, and Pinky Up…