On June 8, 1995, outside the former public library in downtown West Palm Beach, a tradition began. It was a modest start, but this inaugural performance in the Clematis by Night (CBN) series kicked off a nightlife staple in the Palm Beaches that celebrates its 30th anniversary this week.
Now, hundreds or more turn out to enjoy live music at this free concert series nearly every Thursday at the Palm Stage on the Great Lawn in the heart of the city’s downtown, just steps from the waterfront. Major national acts such as Smash Mouth, Clarence Clemons and Natasha Bedingfield have rocked the CBN stage in these three decades, as well as special evenings that have brought the community together, from 9-11 memorials to sports celebrations.
The city is acknowledging CBN’s anniversary year all month long with super-sized programming and themed activities beginning this Thursday, June 5. Here’s the rundown:
• June 5: Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream, a longtime Gainesville-based party band, will bring its 10-piece ensemble of musicians and dancers—including a full horn section, and an endless repertory of soul, rock and R&B favorites—to the CBN stage. Photo ops, promotional giveaways, and contests complete with prizes will complement the upbeat ambiance.
• June 12: Swift Nation, hailing all the way from San Diego, will perform an appropriately era-spanning Taylor Swift tribute, anchored by dynamic singer Melody Ebner, who has mastered her inspiration’s vocals, mannerisms and concert persona. This week’s themed activities include the crafting of friendship bracelets.
• June 19: Chambers/Deslauriers is the molten duo of award-winning Houston-born vocalist Annika Chambers and her husband, guitarist and Ontario native Paul Deslauriers, who met while locking eyes at the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis in 2018. Their music smolders with infectious blues-rock grooves and rousing energy. Attendees can expect ancillary activities such as roller skating and a step-dancing showcase.
• June 26: In this theatrical performance, singer Matt Stone will endeavor to show the audience why he is ranked as one of Graceland’s Top 10 Elvis tribute artists worldwide. Possessing the irrepressible verve and vocal panache of the young Presley, the Florida native, who is in his early ‘20s, also dresses the part, and he’s backed by a full band. CBN add-ons include an Elvis costume contest with prizes awarded to the winners.
Visit CBN’s website for the complete schedule through the end of July.
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