Friday night will mark the second week of Music in the Piazza at Folsom’s Palladio. Taking the stage at this week’s outdoor concert venue in the middle of the city’s premier shopping and dining destination will be a local band with deep roots in Folsom, Granite City 909.
Granite City 909, is a local band deeply rooted in the musical history of the 1970s. The band’s name pays homage to the city’s past, originally known as Granite City, and to the historic elementary school at 909 that played a pivotal role during their formative years.With a sound that captures the essence of rock’s golden era, Granite City 909 brings together over 125 years of combined professional and playing experience. Their music reflects the diverse scenes of LA, Lake Tahoe/Reno, and South Texas, echoing the spirit of an age many consider rock’s most influential period.
The band consists of four longtime friends that are dedicated to honoring Folsom’s heritage and the vintage elementary school that united them. Their mission is to recreate great music for the community, keeping the spirit of the ’70s alive for all to enjoy. Those residents and musicians include:
Jay Freeman (Guitar): Born in Houston, Texas, Jay toured extensively throughout the south and Midwest during the early ’70s, sharing stages with legends like ZZ Top and Ted Nugent. Although he later pursued a banking career, his musical passion led him to represent Wells Fargo at the Fortune Magazine Battle of the Corporate Bands, performing at prestigious venues such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and Nashville, with Cheap Trick headlining the latter event.
Steve Miklos (Guitar): A Southern California native, Steve started his musical journey in the 8th grade with his brother. They performed at outdoor festivals, corporate events, and private functions. Influenced by his godfather and uncle, a Las Vegas headliner, Steve’s talents are deeply rooted in the ’70s genre.
Bob Rogers (Guitar and Bass): Raised in Alaska, Bob moved to Folsom in 1975 and graduated from the original Folsom High School. A seasoned guitarist, Bob’s natural musical abilities and ear are a perfect fit for the band. Recently, he has expanded his repertoire to include bass guitar.
Scott Blakeslee (Drums): Born and raised in New Jersey, Scott relocated to California in 1979. Inspired by the Beatles and the Rolling Stones on the Ed Sullivan Show at age 8, his drumming journey includes school concert and marching bands, as well as a garage rock band that won a NJ teen arts festival music award.
For more information and upcoming performances, visit Granite City 909’s official website at www.granitecity909.com.
Friday’s concert is free to attend and starts up at 7:30. The music continues for two entertaining hours, ending at 9:30 and providing plenty of opportunities before and after the show to check out the many great stores, restaurants, destinations and more that the Palladio has to offer. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs to be comfortable and have a great view of the entertainment for the series sponsored by Elliott Homes, AKT Development and Cummings Properties each Friday
The Palladio wants to remind all its guests to be sure and visit the Beer & Wine Garden hosted by Barnes & Noble Kitchen with yummy small plates and beers on tap for each of the concert events during the season. For more information on the concerts, additional events and everything about Palladio visit www.gopalladio.com or just click one of their many display advertisements seen on www.folsomtimes.com.
The entire 2024 Palladio Music in the Piazza line up is as follows:
June 7: Revolution Beat – Beatles tribute
June 14: Peter Morgan
June 21: Granite City 909
June 28: Eazy Dub
July 12: Hey Monkey
July 19: Keep on Truckin’
July 26: Have Mercy
Aug. 2: Brisco County
For more information visit www.gopalladio.com/events