A rain soaked crowd dances to a heavy hip-hop beat as the rapper on stage delivers heartfelt about their hometown. While it may sound like a scene from one of Chicago’s major music festivals such as Lollapalooza or Pitchfork, it was the Chicago Public Library who was behind this concert.
Additionally, a concert featuring Psalm One as the headlining act is set for Thursday, October 22, at Pritzker Park, located at 344 S. State Street across from the Harold Washington Library Center. Admittance to the park begins at 5 p.m., and admission is free.
Attention all musically inclined Chicagoans ages 14 and up: The Chicago Public Library is holding a competition for the best original musical composition inspired by the city of Chicago.
The contest is currently in full swing with submissions being accepted until September 27. The competition is being judged by Chris Force of ALARM magazine, The Girls’ Guide to Rocking author Jessica Hopper and Chicago rapper Rhymefest. The winner of the contest will headline the CHIPUBLIB Sound Off Concert held at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in late October as well as receiving recording time with a local studio.
Additionally there is a “People’s Choice” category for the contest where anyone can vote on 10 finalists between September 28 and October 3 at Chicago Public Library’s Notwhatyouthink tumblr page. The winner of the People’s Choice award will be the opening act at the concert.