As the anticipation builds for the Gates Four Summer Concert Series 2024, music enthusiasts are eagerly marking their calendars for three unforgettable evenings of live music. This year's series starts on July 12 and features some of North Carolina's most sought-after bands. Held at the beautiful Gates Four Country Club, the concert series promises fun, great food, and free live music.

A Community Event
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series is a highlight for the Fayetteville, Hope Mills, and Cumberland County communities. Held outdoors at the spacious Gates Four Pavilion, this event is sponsored by a generous array of local businesses and organizations. Key sponsors include Jay Dowdy of All American Homes, Up & Coming Weekly newspaper, Gates Four, Healy Wholesale Company, Carolina Specialties (CSI), Christian 105.7, Certified Heating and Air Conditioning, The UPS Store (Westwood), Two Brothers Catering, Five West Media Group, Bragg Mutual Federal Credit Union, Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce, and PWC Fayetteville's Hometown Utility.

Concert Lineup

Chicago Rewired – July 12
The series kicks off with Chicago Rewired, the premier Chicago tribute band. The band is known for their faithful renditions of Chicago's timeless music and is ready to bring the house down. With record sales topping 100 million, including 21 top-10 singles, five consecutive number-one albums, 11 number-one singles, and five gold singles, Chicago's music has become the soundtrack to great memories for many people.
In the summer of 2015, Charlotte drummer Mike Graci envisioned elevating the local music scene by creating a tribute band that stood out from the typical cover bands. Dissatisfied with the run-of-the-mill cover music prevalent in the area, Graci set out to assemble a group of top-notch musicians who could authentically replicate the complex and beloved sound of Chicago. After five years of meticulous effort and dedication, Chicago Rewired was born.
"Bringing together musicians who could not only play but also feel the music of Chicago was a challenge," said Graci, the band leader. "It took us five years to perfect the Chicago style, but it was worth every moment. The chemistry we've developed is special and resonates with our audiences."
Fans attending the concert on July 12 can expect to be transported back in time as Chicago Rewired performs some of the band's greatest hits. Audience members will have the chance to sing along to classics such as "25 or 6 to 4," "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" "Feeling Stronger Every Day," and "Old Days." These songs, known for their intricate arrangements and powerful brass sections, will undoubtedly evoke nostalgia and excitement among the attendees.
"The goal of our performances is to not only play the notes but to capture the spirit and energy of Chicago's music," said Graci. "We want our audience to feel the same joy and excitement that we feel on stage. It's all about creating an experience that everyone can enjoy."

Heart Breaker – August 9
The concert series continues with Heart Breaker, the ultimate USA tribute to the band Heart. This national touring act, based in North Carolina, is renowned for its dedication to performing each song with love, respect, and passion. Heart Breaker aims to provide a genuinely transcendent and pitch-perfect concert experience, both musically and visually. Audiences can expect to hear Heart's greatest hits, such as "Alone," "These Dreams," "What About Love," "Crazy on You," and the iconic "Barracuda." Additionally, the band will perform classic Led Zeppelin songs, paying homage to the band that inspired Heart and its fans.

Rivermist – September 6
Rivermist, a local favorite, will take the stage next. Formed in July 2014 in Fayetteville, Rivermist is a collaboration of musicians with over 200 years of combined experience. Known for their love of audience engagement and commitment to preserving the music familiar to their roots, Rivermist plays a mix of classic rock, R&B, and various party music. The band has been voted Fayetteville/Ft. Liberty's "Best Local Band" by Up & Coming Weekly for eight consecutive years. With nearly 8,500 followers on Facebook, Rivermist has also gained recognition for their original music, including their chart-topping song "Right Place Right Time." They were nominated for multiple Carolina Beach Music Academy (CAMMY) awards, winning the "Rising Star" award in 2023 and being named the 2021 "Vocal Group of the Year" by the CCMA.

 

 

Event Details

• Venue: Gates Four Pavilion
• Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.
• Concert Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Admission: Free

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfortable seating. The concerts are family-friendly and open to all.

VIP Experience
VIP packages are available for those looking to enhance their concert experience. These packages offer premium seating, special perks, and more, ensuring a memorable and luxurious evening under the stars. To purchase your VIP tickets, visit https://fayettevilledinnertheatre.com/

Food, Drinks, and Fun
No summer concert is complete without great food and drinks. The Rolling Taco Truck will be on-site, offering delicious treats for all attendees. With all necessary ABC permits, various beverages will also be available. Exciting door prizes will add to the evening's fun, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Supporting a Good Cause
Partial proceeds from the concert series will be donated to the Kidsville News! Literacy and Education Foundation of Cumberland County, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This initiative highlights the event's commitment to providing entertainment while supporting the local community.
"Events like these are essential because they bring people together in a positive and fun environment. It's a chance for the community to gather, enjoy great music, and create lasting memories. Plus, it's free, which makes it accessible to everyone. A free event like this ensures that all community members can come together and enjoy a shared experience regardless of their financial situation. It's really about building a sense of unity and togetherness,” said Bill Bowman, Publisher, Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper.
"Supporting local events has always been our priority at Up & Coming Weekly. We believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This concert series aligns perfectly with our mission to promote local culture and entertainment. When we saw the potential of the Gates Four Summer Concert Series to bring joy and excitement to Fayetteville, we knew we had to be a part of it. It's an excellent opportunity to showcase the talents of our local and regional musicians while providing a platform for them to shine.
"The impact is significant. It boosts local businesses, fosters community spirit, and provides a platform for local and regional musicians to showcase their talents. It's a win-win for everyone involved. Local businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic and visibility, which helps stimulate the local economy. The series also allows musicians to reach a broader audience and gain recognition for their hard work and talent. Overall, it enhances the cultural fabric of Fayetteville, making it a more vibrant and connected community."
Through this interview, Bowman emphasized the Gates Four Summer Concert Series’ essential role in fostering a sense of community, supporting local businesses, and promoting the arts in Fayetteville.
Jay Dowdy, owner of All American Homes and another key event sponsor, shared his passion for supporting the community through music.
"In today's society, people are stressed out. I want everyone to know it's never too late to be who you might have been. No matter your age, nothing should hold you back," Dowdy said.
"I believe in giving back to my community. Giving back to the community is crucial because they support you."
Dowdy continued, "What we're doing with the concert series is offering something unique. Think about it—what else is there to do in town for free on weekends? Hardly anything. We're opening up Gates Four, a gated community that most folks don't know about. It's the best-kept secret in town. We're inviting everyone to come out and see a free concert, not just local bands but ones that play statewide and even nationally. It shows everyone that you care about them."
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series is more than just a series of concerts; it's an opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family. These free concerts, set in the picturesque Gates Four Pavilion, promise an incredible experience for all attendees.
With a stunning venue, an impressive lineup of bands, and delicious food and drinks, the Summer Concert Series at Gates Four is set to be the season's must-attend event. So, grab your lawn chairs, bring your loved ones, and join the community for a summer of unforgettable music.
While the concerts are free, VIP packages are available for those who wish to enhance their experience with premium seating and special perks. Remember, partial proceeds from the concert series will benefit the Kidsville News! Literacy and Education Foundation of Cumberland County.
For more information and to stay updated on the event, call the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre at 910-391-3859.

(Top Photo: Chicago Rewired will be the first band playing in the Gates 4 Summer Concert Series.Photos courtesy of Greg Adair.  Middle Photo: Heartbreaker is the second band to play in the series and will play Aug. 9. Bottom Photo: Rivermist, the third band to play in the concert series, will hold their concert Sept. 6.)