X Ambassadors: The first main stage performance hosts a few high-charting artists. Creators of many “I didn't know that was them”-type songs, X Ambassadors has slowly come out of the shadows into the top 40 scene since forming in 2009. The alternative rock band combines smooth vocals and catchy strings to warm their audience's hearts and have them moving to the beat at the same time. Their song “Renegades” got them to a new peak at No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and they can only go up from here. Other popular tracks include “Unsteady” and “Jungle,” both from the bands 2015 full length debut, VHS. If XA alone isn't selling you on the tickets, they will be joined by fellow up-and-comers Jukebox the Ghost and Top 10 artist, Rachel Platten, best known for her singles “Fight Song” and “Stand by You.” Tickets start at $39.
Run DMC: One of the most influential hip-hop acts of all time will “Walk This Way” to the Fest main stage on August 6th. Since the 80s, they have covered themselves in glory and accolades including a Grammy's Lifetime Achievement Award and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Arguably known best for their song “It's Tricky” and their cover of Aerosmith's “Walk This Way,” this group achieved a number of firsts in the hip-hop genre: first to be nominated for a Grammy; first album to go gold, platinum, and multiplatinum; and so on. If you're a lover of hip-hop, this is a MUST SEE legendary act. Tickets start at $49.
Dierks Bentley: Seven studio albums, 12 Grammy nominations, two Country Music Association Awards, and a truck-load of style changes make Dierks Bentley a perfect show for country music lovers. Through his 11 year career, he has flirted with modern and classic country, bluegrass, and everything in-between making for a healthy mix of styles in one show. His latest album Black, released on May 27th, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and became his highest charting album to date. Accompanied by opening act Tucker Beathard, August 7th is a date that should be circled for country music enthusiasts. Tickets start at $58.
Swift Technique presents a Tribute to Prince: One of the greatest musicians passed away this year, and Swift Technique is looking to bring his presence to the Valley for everyone to enjoy. Joining them will be the Band from Mars, who will also be presenting a tribute to one of music's greatest personalities, David Bowie. Head over to the Sands Steel Stage at PNC Plaza on August 8th for a night of classics from two phenomenal artists. Tickets are free with seating, but they are limited. Seats will be given on a first come first serve basis.
Boston: Since 1976, Boston has been a mainstay on rock stations across the globe with their smash hits “More Than a Feeling,” “Piece of Mind,” “Amanda,” and many more. The unique and somewhat legendary band hosts a very visual show with some of the most recognizable riffs and vocals in the rock scene. Boston's music has influenced generations and is still loved even in the newer ones, which makes the August 9th show one to see for long-time Boston fans and young rock lovers alike. Tickets start at $45.
Don Henley: If you didn't already know, Don Henley was a founding member of the Eagles. Still with the band today, Henley helped the Eagles influence music with their unique combination of rock, rhythm and blues, soul, and bluegrass. Their best-selling albums and timeless hits like “Hotel California” make them a band for the history books. Starting as a solo artist in 1982, Henley only added to his growing legacy with numerous award nominations and wins and more hits. Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors will open for Henley on August 10th. Tickets start at $79.
BUSH & Chevelle: British post-grunge band, BUSH, and California's nu-metal band, Chevelle, will share the Sands Steel Stage this August for a night of pure rock. Fueled by numerous top 10 rock singles including a chart topper with “The Sound of Winter,” BUSH has made a notable comeback after going on an eight-year hiatus starting in 2002. Along with BUSH, Chevelle gets a chance to show off their hits like “The Red,” “Send the Pain Below,” and their most recent album, The North Corridor, which was released on July 8th and made it to the top of the iTunes new music list. As if two great rock acts isn't enough, they will also be joined by opening acts Dead Deads and Black Map on August 11th. Tickets start at $44.
Sabrina Carpenter: Who doesn't love a hometown hero? The Lower Milford Township native stars as Maya Hart in Disney Channel series Girl Meets World – yes, a direct sequel to the original Boy Meets World – and has released numerous songs and collections through Disney Records. A winner of many Disney Music Awards, Sabrina comes back to her hometown to perform her singles “We'll Be the Stars” and “Can't Blame a Girl for Trying” and her collection of movie soundtracks. A concert like this is great for your son or daughter and it will have you smiling at a local triumph simultaneously. From the Lower Milford Elementary School Talent Show to the Sands Steel Stage at PNC Plaza on August 12th, Sabrina has made the world her own. Tickets start at just $20!
Lady Antebellum: Best known for multiplatinum hit and Grammy “Song of the Year” winning single “Need You Now,” Lady Antebellum has burst onto the crossover country scene since 2006. Their meteoric rise was documented first in 2007 when they were named the Top New Vocal Duo or Group by the Academy of Country Music. In true meteoric fashion, just a year later they were named Artist of the Year. Their five studio albums (four of which making it to the top country spot) and numerous hit tracks make them one of the leaders of the genre. Along with Lady Antebellum, Post Monroe and Lauren Jenkins will rock the Sands Steel Stage on August 13th. Tickets start at $54.
The Avett Brothers: They are listed as a folk rock band, but their blend of styles make their sound extremely unique. Winners of Duo/Group of the Year and New/Emerging Artists awards in 2007, The Avett Brothers have not stopped their rise to the top, performing on Live TV on Conan O'Brien and the 2011 Grammy Awards. Their most recent album, True Sadness, debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 after being released on June 24th of this year. Joining The Avett Brothers will be Langhorne Slim on August 14th. Tickets start at $45.
For more information visit musikfest.org.
