It’s that time of year when fans and musicians share their love for the Lakeside Music Series. “The Lakeside Music Series always surprises and delights me,” said Lakeside resident Javier Palomarez. “I enjoy the range and variety of the music — from country to blues to contemporary — and the musicianship is so good for such a small venue.”
Palomarez, who serves as president and chief executive of the US Hispanic Business Council, has been known to show his appreciation by buying the musicians a drink.
“We try to attend every Friday night of the series,” said Kevin Marshall, a resident of Lakeview Estates, who sings in the Millennial Choirs and Orchestras along with his son and daughter. “We love being a part of and listening to good live music. Music is powerful.”
“Even in the fall when there are some cold nights,” he added, “we still take our camping chairs (and blankets) to hear the live music and go to Epic Gelato.”
“My girlfriend, Sarah [Ash], and I walk or bike over there [from our apartments in Lakeside],” said Palomarez. “She loves it just as much as I do. She’s a teacher in Lewisville and I travel a lot so we both like to chill out there. It’s a great way to start our weekend slow and easy.” The two met at Lakeside’s popular work-out studio, Urban Vybe.
Family atmosphere
“I love the family atmosphere,” he added. “And it really is family friendly — no obscenities.”
That’s important for Marshall as well. “I appreciate that the music performed, and what is said by the musicians between songs, is appropriate for families.”
“When the children are dancing,” Palomarez insisted, “it is magic.” Many of the musicians love this aspect as well.
“We like to play wireless,” said Christy McLeod of McLeod Nine, who performed in Lakeside twice last year, “so we can mix with the audience a bit and dance with the kids.”
The Lakeside Music Series also plays host to audience members who need assistance of one kind or another. Their families understand how loved ones enjoy — and can benefit from — the music, the assembly of relaxed people, and the night air.
What musicians think
“The Lakeside Music Series has a vibe all its own,” explained Chant Duplantier, who has performed in Lakeside since the series began in 2016.
“It’s one of the most intimate outdoor venues I’ve ever played. There’s not a bad seat and the surroundings make for crystal clear sound from every angle. There’s nothing like it in the area.”
“It’s wonderful to perform at Lakeside because the audience is there to listen to the music,” added Dalene Richelle, who is scheduled to play in May. “They are attentive and supportive and it makes for such a beautiful experience under the stars.”
“People come to Lakeside especially for the music,” agreed Wyatt Martin, who opens the 2023 season on Friday, April 7. ”So the crowd is exceptionally attentive and easy to interact with. It is one of my favorite places to perform original music.”
The secret sauce
2023 marks the eighth season for the Lakeside Music Series. From the very first show, Michael Clay of the Texas Music Project has served as the event’s booking agent and consultant.
He set the standards for the quality, character, and type of artist to perform for the Lakeside audience. Clay also worked to ensure the event would be audience-friendly and artist-friendly. For example, the music series provides its own PA system — ensuring consistent sound quality from week to week and reducing the equipment musicians have to bring with them.
And Lakeside provides a sound man — the inimitable Shaddow Walter — to shoulder essential tasks so the musicians can concentrate on making music. He can usually be spotted roaming the plaza, iPad in hand, prepared to solve problems and make adjustments as needed.
“I credit the management and owners of Lakeside,” said Clay, “for understanding the value great entertainment brings to their residents, merchants, and visitors.”
“Every Friday night from April through November, you’ll hear a wide variety of original and classic songs from every genre.
“Best of all, it’s free!“