This dispatch was added by one of our Nonprofit Neighbors. It does not represent the editorial voice of The Rapidian or Community Media Center.
July 13 from 12 p.m.- 8 p.m., the sidewalks along S. Division between Fulton and Cherry will be vibrant and lively with an street style artist market, open gallery spaces and live entertainment. This event features local handmade goods, artists, entertainers and local businesses. Interested vendors can learn more by visiting the WEBSITE, joining on FACEBOOK or emailing [email protected]. Want to volunteer? Visit this link to sign up!
After busking the streets of South Division for The Market on June 8th, Jake Stilson is an anticipated afternoon performance for the second event of The Market Presented by Avenue for the Arts, which is happening this upcoming Saturday from noon-8pm along the street of South Division.
A local musician, Jake Stilson might be floating just under the radar for many Grand Rapidians. Taking time to listen to his music reveals that Stilson is an extremely personal artist, who has an intimate manner that highlights the significance of a personal journey and the simple life. With his music being an American Rock acoustic style, riddled with complex chords and raw, yet comforting vocals, it is both approachable and entertaining. But, whether discovered or not, this musician's true inspiration is simply just to make good music. “The fact that I'm releasing my sixth album, to no acclaim and low recognition is a driving force behind my continuing to create new art,” Jake shares.
Jake Stilson, currently a resident of downtown Grand Rapids, has come a long way from “...the dirt road in Mecosta County between a swamp and a cornfield,” Stilson described. He started his life in music at a very young age. “I grew up singing in church and doing elvis impressions for my mom in dress socks on the coffee table. My dad taught me the chords to Kenny Rogers the gambler on guitar at age seven.”
As a developed and growing musician Jake Stilson is now releasing his sixth album, titled Stilson Shmilson. It is a nine song album including titles such as You Can't Choose Who You Love and This Drink. Stilson Shmilson is currently available to buy on his website and is released on vinyl with a screen hand-printed record jacket made by Jake himself. The album is also available downtown at Vertigo Music.
Playing both solo and with a full band, Jake performs several times a year locally. Upcoming shows are listed on his website. The next show he will be playing is during The Market Presented by Avenue for the Arts. Stilson, a participant in past events put on by The Avenue for the Arts views his participation as “...an opportunity to expose your art to new people and also to see the art of your peers in a progressive, encouraging environment.” Amongst other musicians, performers and artists Jake will exposing his art this Saturday for The Market at the location of 106 S. Division at 6pm.
Written by Danielle Lynn Dunn
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