News Release

May 16, 2022

Horicon Bank Summer Concert Series begins June 2nd

June 2nd through September 2nd

This year's Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series features one of our best lineups ever! Week after week, music connoiseurs will be treated to an outstanding line-up of Blues, Rock, Country and other music styles, in a quaint outdoor setting. Every Friday evening throughout the summer, the public is invited to downtown Ripon's Village Green to experience the power of music. There is something for everyone in our diverse lineup of professional musicians.

Several community favorites are set to return including Star Six Nine, Road Trip, Cherry Pie and Madison County. New groups have also been worked into the schedule including the Chicken Wire Empire, Old Soul Society, The Glam Band, and The 308s. In addition, we are excited to announce that national recording artist Hinder will conclude the 2022 season on September 2 as our signature artist.

The park opens at 6:00 pm on most Friday nights with bands performing from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Absolutely NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses.

Ripon Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover what makes our community so special. Follow us @downtownripon on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

The events and activities organized by Main Street enhance the image of our community, making Ripon a desirable place to live, work and play. We are thankful for the support of our many sponsors listed below who make this popular and ever-expanding event possible. Without their support, we would not have a FREE music series of this caliber.

Title Sponsor: Horicon Bank

Band Sponsors: Alliance Laundry Systems, American Family Insurance, Condon Companies, Diedrich Jewelers, Jean, and axle Hinkley, Knuth Brewing Company, Nevitt Law Office, Pericles Financial Services, Ripon Rotary Club, Silver Creek Dentistry, von Briesen & Roper, s.c., Walsworth

Friends of the Village Green: Anonymous Donations, Backstage Studio, Bright Orthodontics, Dairyland Aviation, Diedrich Agency, Hillside Dental Associates, Henry & Debbie Hilscher, Homan Ford & GM, Andy & Jeanne Lyke, Bill & Judy Neill, Thin Ice Productions

Beverage Sponsors: Miller Lite/General Beverage, NE, Knuth Brewing Company

Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Bug, 93.1 FM The Wave, 96-1 The Rock, Ripon Commonwealth Press/Express

Please consider this as an invitation to partner with us as we continue to grow the concert series into an even greater attraction for our community. Ripon Main Street is a 501c3 not-for-profit tax-exempt organization. All proceeds go to support the ongoing revitalization efforts of Ripon’s central business district. Donations of any amount are welcome and may be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI 54971. Gifts to Ripon Main Street are tax deductible. Contact the Main Street office at 920-748-7466 for more information.

News Release

January 28, 2022

Planning underway for 2022 Horicon Bank Summer Concert Series

June 3rd through September 2nd

Planning is once again under way for the Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series. Organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., the free outdoor concerts take place on Friday evenings at the Village Green in downtown Ripon. "The 2021 season was our best ever, and we are building on that momentum by creating a lineup that features a greater variety of music than ever before" stated Craig Tebon, Execuitive Director of Ripon Main Street.

Several community favorites are set to return to the lineup including Star Six Nine, Road Trip, Cherry Pie and Madison County. New groups have also been added to the schedule including Chicken Wire Empire, Old Soul Society, The 308s, and The Glam Band. In addition, we are networking with agents to secure a national recording artist to conclude the 2022 season on September 2 and hope to make an announcement in the coming weeks. This is shaping up to be another great season!

The concerts take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at The Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street (101 W. Seward Street). Concerts typically occur on Friday evenings, June through August, but occasionally bonus concerts are added or events rescheduled due to weather issues. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on.

NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. Free music isn’t really free.

A special Thank You to the local businesses that sponsor the music series. Let them know you appreciate the financial commitment they have made to our community. Without their support, there would not be a concert series. Additional donations are needed to fully fund this year’s concert series. Donations of any amount are welcome and may be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI  54971.

Ripon Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover what makes our community so special.

Title Sponsor: Horicon Bank

Band Sponsors: Alliance Laundry Systems, American Family Insurance, Condon Companies, Diedrich Jewelers, Jean, and axle Hinkley, Knuth Brewing Company, Nevitt Law Office, Pericles Financial Services, Ripon Rotary Club, Silver Creek Dentistry, von Briesen & Roper, s.c., Walsworth

Friends of the Village Green: Anonymous Donations, Backstage Studio, Bright Orthodontics, Dairyland Aviation, Diedrich Agency, Hillside Dental Associates, Henry & Debbie Hilscher, Homan Ford & GM, Andy & Jeanne Lyke, Bill & Judy Neill, Thin Ice Productions

Beverage Sponsors: Miller Lite/General Beverage, NE, Knuth Brewing Company

Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Bug, 93.1 FM The Wave, 96-1 The Rock, Ripon Commonwealth Press/Express

News Release

November 16, 2021

Concert Series bounces back...2021 season is BEST EVER!

Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series Update...THANK YOU for helping make the 2021 season a tremendous success. We could not have accomplished this without our generous sponsors and patrons!

We are building on the success and have already begun planning for the upcoming season. We hope to have the 2022 schedule finalized by the end of February. Stay Tuned!

Title Sponsor: Horicon Bank

Band Sponsors: Aither State Farm Ins., Alliance Laundry Systems, Condon Companies, Culver's of Ripon, Diedrich Agency, Diedrich Jewelers, Independent Pharmacy Cooperative, Nevitt Law Office, Silver Creek Dentistry/Knuth Brewing Company, von Briesen & Roper, s.c., Walsworth

Friends of the Village Green: Anonymous Donations, AFK Corp, Backstage Studio, Bright Orthodontics, Camera Casino, Jere & Nancy Chapin, Hillside Dental Assoc., Debbie & Henry Hilscher, Steve Axle Hinkley, Andy & Jeanne Lyke, Bill & Judy Neill, Emily & Peter Sensenbrenner, Thin Ice Productions

Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Bug, 93.1 FM The Wave, 96-1 The Rock, Ripon Commonwealth Press/Express

News Release

August 26, 2021

Horicon Bank Ripon Concert Series concludes with Tantric

National recording artist Tantric will conclude the 2021 Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series on Friday, August 27th with a special season ending performance. The FREE concert, which is sponsored by Horicon Bank, takes place at the Village Green from 7:00 to 11:00 pm. The opening performer is Avalanche Lilly.

Tantric is an American rock band from Louisville, Kentucky. The group was founded in 1999 by Hugo Ferreira. Tantric is often categorized as post-grunge and is known for its emphasis on acoustic guitar, distorted electric guitar riffs, and multi-layered vocal harmonies. In their early career, Tantric was frequently compared to grunge forerunners Alice in Chains.

The band has endured a 20+ year career. Their musical approach has evolved into the sensational rock band that they are today. Tantric has released seven studio albums and one EP. Their self-titled debut is their most successful release to date. The album spawned the highly acclaimed singles "Breakdown", "Astounded" and "Mourning" and has been certified gold, selling over 600,000 copies. Tantric is working on their upcoming eighth studio album “The Sum of All Things” and will be releasing a video to their first single “Living Here Without You” in the next few weeks.

Tantric's line-up consists of founder, Hugo Ferriera (Vox/Acoustic Guitar), Jaron Gulino (Vox, Bass), Sebastian LaBar (Lead Guitar, Vox) and Ian Corabi (Drums).

The concert series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place at The Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality. Visit the Ripon Summer Concert website for the complete lineup which includes links to band websites, music samples and more. Or, follow us on @downtownripon on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

2021 Summer Concert Sponsors

A special Thank You goes out to following businesses and individuals for sponsoring the summer concert series. Let them know you appreciate the financial commitment they have made to our community. Additional donations are still needed to fully fund this year’s concert series. Donations of any amount may be given and can be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI  54971.

Title Sponsor: Horicon Bank

Band Sponsors: Aither State Farm Ins., Alliance Laundry Systems, Condon Companies, Culver's of Ripon, Diedrich Agency, Diedrich Jewelers, Independent Pharmacy Cooperative, Nevitt Law Office, Silver Creek Dentistry/Knuth Brewing Company, von Briesen & Roper, s.c., Walsworth

Friends of the Village Green: Anonymous Donations, AFK Corp, Backstage Studio, Bright Orthodontics, Camera Casino, Jere & Nancy Chapin, Hillside Dental Assoc., Debbie & Henry Hilscher, Steve Axle Hinkley, Andy & Jeannie Lyke, Bill & Judy Neill, Emily & Peter Sensenbrenner, Thin Ice Productions

Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Bug, 93.1 FM The Wave, 96-1 The Rock

Hospitality Sponsors: Cobblestone Suites

News Release

August 18, 2021

Ripon welcomes Madison County to Summer Concert Series

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, August 20th) features Madison County, one of Wisconsin’s favorite country bands. The concert, which takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon, is sponsored by Condon Companies.

MADISON COUNTY is a 7-piece Country show band based out of Madison, WI that continuously evolves its high-energy engaging show to stay fresh and unique. They have been voted Local Group of the Year 9 years in a row at the Madison Country Music Awards, Country Artist of the Year at the MAMA Awards (Madison Area Music Association), and People's Choice Award winner for 6 years at the WAMI Awards (Wisconsin Area Music Industry).

MADISON COUNTY has released 3 full CDs ("Diamond In the Rough", "Make My Way Back Home" and "Enjoy the Ride"), as well as a 6-song EP with an Indie Label, out of Nashville, entitled "Perspective". This self-titled single was voted "Best Country Song" at the MAMA Awards. The group has sold well over 15,000 CDs and thousands of digital sales of their music, along with 6 local radio releases. During the 2020 Covid19 shutdown, Madison County worked on new original music, releasing "Roller Coaster Ride" in May, "Drinkin' Crowd" in June, and "Set Me Free" in July. Videos are available on their website.

This group has earned the respect of some of the most talented musicians throughout Wisconsin, along with radio stations and fans alike. MADISON COUNTY has been privileged to share the stage with many national artists over the years, including: Little Big Town, Bake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, and Dwight Yoakum to name a few.

The concert series conlcudes next week with National Recording Artist -- Tantric along with opening band Avalanche Lilly.

News Release

August 11, 2021

Cherry Pie returns to Summer Concert Series

Tonight’s concert features a special performance by Road Trip, (Friday, August 13th) features the return of Cherry Pie, one of Wisconsin’s top rock cover bands. A performance by Cherry Pie features a high-energy show with some of the biggest rock hits.

Cherry Pie plays all of the biggest “Hair Band” hits and ballads of the 80’s, as well as a few anthems from the 70’s. They are well known for performing over-the-top renditions of hits by Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Poison, Motley Crue and many others. Since forming in 1999, Cherry Pie has performed over 1000 live shows, racked up numerous awards, and have been featured on numerous stages including Summerfest and the Wisconsin State Fair.

The concert, which takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon, is sponsored by von Briesen & Roper, s.c.. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. All performances are free and open to the public.

Next week’s concert features Madison County.

News Release

August 6, 2021

Summer Concert features the 5 Card Studs

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, August 6th) features the return of hardest working lounge band in the Midwest, the 5 Card Studs. A performance by the 5 Card Studs features a unique blend of big-time Las Vegas attitude and 70’s TV game show schmaltz, all glossed over with a washed-up lounge/wedding singer veneer. The concert, which takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon, is sponsored by Diedrich Jewelers.

Musically, their performances feature many recognizable 60s & 70s AM Gold classics – hits from artists such as Neil Diamond, Engelbert Humperdink, Tom Jones; soul classics from Al Green, Smokey Robinson, The Spinners, Wilson Pickett; one-hit wonders like Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl), Hooked On A Feeling, Green Eyed Lady, Hot Child In The City, and The Love Boat; disco hits by the Bee Gees…the entire list is just too huge to mention. All of this is delivered by the expert musicianship of the five seasoned veterans in the 5 Card Studs, making for an unforgettable experience in entertainment.

The concert series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. Next week’s concert features Cherry Pie.

Next week’s concert features one of the hardest working lounge bands in the Midwest…the 5 Card Studs.

News Release

July 30, 2021

Summer Concert features Road Trip

Tonight’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, July 30th) with Road Trip is proceeding as planned. The storm that hit Ripon last Wednesday evening (August 28th) caused some damage, took down trees, and created power outages for pretty much the entire community. Since then, Alliant Energy and City crews have been removing the debris and piecing the electrical grid back together. We are not at 100% yet, but we are bouncing back. So please, come on down to the district tonight, stroll the streets, peruse our shops, have dinner at one of our restaurants, and complete your evening with a concert at the Village Green. It’s going to be a beautiful night!  

Tonight’s concert features a special performance by Road Trip, one of Wisconsin’s most popular rock bands. The concert, which is sponsored by Silver Creek Dentistry and Knuth Brewing Company, will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

Road Trip is much more than your typical rock cover band. They have developed a tremendous regional following by mastering the two key elements of rock and roll: diversity and energy. A concert by Road Trip features video screens and state-of-the-art light show, put on by dedicated musicians and singers who love what they do, and it shows. They continuously create new videos and add new music to their set lists, keeping their shows fresh and full of energy.

Award winning vocalists Amy Jo Doty and Chris Szebeni (formerly of Boxkar), lead the band through a 3+ hour show filled with songs from everyone’s favorite artists.  Pink, Chris Stapleton, Billy Eilish, Katy Perry, Kid Rock, Michael Jackson, Ozzy,  and Guns & Roses are just a few of the bands Road Trip brings to life. The music behind the vocals includes Dylan Morey on lead guitar, DJ Doty on rhythm guitar, Robert George Welsch Jr. on bass, and Matt Gieseke on drums.  They give 100% at every performance to help ensure their fans experience a memorable show.  They want every person to experience the party that the band is throwing;  loud, wild, exciting, surprising, real and up-close.

Road Trip has won many awards throughout the years for best Cover Band, along with best Female and Male Vocalist.  Not to mention they have been nominated in at least one category every year for the Wisconsin Area Music Industry Awards (WAMI). This is one concert you won’t want to miss!

Next week’s concert features one of the hardest working lounge bands in the Midwest…the 5 Card Studs.

News Release

July 9, 2021

Summer Concert features Frank Martin Busch and The Names

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, July 9th) features Frank Martin Busch and The Names for a free concert in downtown Ripon. The performance, which is sponsored by Aither State Farm Insurance, will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green.

Frank Martin Busch is no stranger to Wisconsin’s music scene. He has been performing throughout the Midwest for the last several years as the front man for Wheelhouse. The Names is Frank's first foray as a true solo artist. He has traded in the acoustic guitar for a Stratocaster and is living and dying by his ability to play it. Frank marries the storytelling of a country songwriter with the musicality of a bluesman, and a sense of humor that rivals your grade school best friend’s dad.

The music produced by The Names is Americana, which is a polite way of saying it is country music without bedazzled jeans. Drawing its roots from Red Dirt Country rather than Nashville, it features solid rhythms, jangly guitars, honky tonk piano, harmonicas and even some steel guitars. His solo debut record is due out in the coming weeks.

Next week’s concert features Chicago style blues by Reverend Raven & Westside Andy.

The concert series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place at The Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality. Visit the Ripon Summer Concert website for the complete lineup which includes links to band websites, music samples and more. Or, follow us on @downtownripon on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

News Release

July 1, 2021

Summer Concert features Stephen Cooper & The Nobody Famous

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, July 2nd) features the return of Stephen Cooper & The Nobody Famous for a free concert in downtown Ripon. The performance, which is sponsored by Hometown Broadcasting and 93.1 FM - The Wave, will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green.

Soul. Rhythm and Blues. The words conjure romantic memories of infectious Motown grooves. Tender ballads peppered with swirling keyboards and scorching barnburners precisely punctuated by a ruthless horn section, these were the songs that had you on your feet before the singer even started. Sizzling horns, a rhythm section that hits like a jackhammer, and guitar that's as seductive as it is destructive. And at the forefront, Stephen Cooper. Combining rock, R&B, soul, jazz, blues, and funk like a musical mad scientist, he's drawn on 25 years of musical experience to create something truly special: a living, breathing musical conduit from the past to the present, guaranteed to bring you that feeling of the heart once again.

Cooper has been a bandleader, sideman, and touring musician for his entire adult life. In that time, he has played in 21 states and 7 countries with numerous groups, most notably WiFEE and the HUZz BAND and The Groove Hogs. He taps into the vocal DNA of Amy Winehouse, Otis Redding, Stevie Wonder, and Al Green, while also being a highly acclaimed saxophonist and instrumental soloist. Each member of Nobody Famous is a superstar in their own right.

Next week’s concert features Frank Martin Busch and The Names.

News Release

June 21, 2021

Star Six Nine returns to Ripon Summer Concert Series

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, June 25th) features the return of Star Six Nine for a free outdoor concert in downtown Ripon. The performance, which is sponsored by Alliance Laundry Systems, will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green.

Star Six Nine combines five individuals whose aspirations include one thing: performing great music and producing a fun show (Ok...that's 2 things). Their goal is to get the crowd to have a great time by performing a variety of rock, pop and even a few country tunes. They love mixing things up, and you'll never know what you might hear next.

Next week’s concert features Stephen Cooper & The Nobody Famous.

News Release

June 15, 2021

Ripon Summer Concert features Bad Habitz

Bad Habitz returns to the Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series this Friday, June 18th.The concert, which is sponsored by Diedrich Agency, will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

Bad Habitz is a talented, hard-working rock band. Heavily influenced by 80's rock music, this 3-piece band will amaze you with not only their ability to play, but also with their stage presence. The band performs with a seasoned maturity and confidence that will shock audiences of all ages. Started as a family project in 2010 as a brother and sister band, Bad Habitz quickly transitioned out of the basement hobby realm into a powerful, dynamic, established local band favorite. During their rise in popularity, they have been nominated four times for a WAMI Award in the category of Rising Star - winning the award in 2014, and were recently nominated in the Best Rock Band category in 2017. Their growing reputation and swelling fanbase has landed them many festival gigs as well as created the opportunity to open for several national acts.

News Release

June 9, 2021

Altered Five returning to Ripon Summer Concert Series

This weeks Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, June 11th) features the hard-driving, explosive rockin’ blues of Altered Five Blues Band.The concert is sponsored by Independent Pharmacy Cooperative - In Memory of Dewey Bier. Altered Five will perform a FREE concert from 7 to 10 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

Altered Five makes music with a swaggering stomp of bruising, barrelhouse grit. According to Downbeat magazine, frontman Jeff Taylor “sings powerfully” and “Jeff Schroedl’s live-wire guitar reaches the high bar of mixed invention and fluidity.” Blues Bytes magazine declares the group features “the funkiest rhythm section outside of Memphis.” A 2018 Blues Music Award nominee, the Milwaukee-based quintet release its most recent album, Ten Thousand Watts, in 2019 on Blind Pig Records. Recorded over four days in Nashville, TN and produced by three-time Grammy winner Tom Hambridge, the 12 tracks stir up a thunderstorm of original, roots-rockin’ music. This collection of succinct, tight-but-loose songs reflect the continuing evolution of the band’s deft songwriting, blended with the intuitive musical interplay of the longtime bandmates.

In addition to Ten Thousand Watts, their previous back-to-back releases received critical acclaim. Cryin’ Mercy won “Best Self-Released Album” at the International Blues Challenge in 2015, and Charmed & Dangerous scored Song of the Year at both the Independent Music Awards and Wisconsin Music Awards in 2018. Both albums reached the Top 5 in the iTunes blues store and hit #1 on the Roots Music Report Blues Album Chart. Guitar World magazine called the song “Charmed & Dangerous” a “menacing, swampy blues,” and the track has been in regular rotation on SiriusXM’s Bluesville along with many other programs and playlists.

Altered Five Blues Band now have five studio albums to their name. The group has performed at many renowned festivals and venues such as: Grolsch Blues Fest (Germany), W.C. Handy Blues Fest (Kentucky), Ann Arbor Blues Fest, King Biscuit Blues Fest, Baltic Blues Fest (Germany), Milwaukee Summerfest, Magic City Blues Fest (Montana), Fargo Blues Fest, B.B. King’s Blues Club (Memphis), Buddy Guy’s Legends (Chicago), and several appearances on local television.

News Release

June 4, 2021

Ripon’s Getting Set for Funk & Blues with The Jimmys

The Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series officially kicks off tonight (Friday, June 4th) with The Jimmys, Wisconsin’s premier blues and R&B powerhouse band. The FREE concert, which is sponsored by Nevitt Law Office, will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at The Village Green in historic downtown Ripon, Wisconsin.

Over the past twelve years, The Jimmys have solidified their brand of Blues and R&B across the Midwest, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean. Led by multiple award-winning keyboardist/organist Jimmy Voegeli, the band has been named a "festival favorite" in numerous reviews and magazines. Members of The Jimmys have garnered everything from Wisconsin's top honors in Blues, to Grammy recognition, to platinum records. The soul of the band is Jimmy Voegeli. Add an all star rhythm section, a powerful horn line, along with tight vocal harmonies and you have one of the best blues bands in the Midwest. The Jimmys have performed with such notable artists as: Hubert Sumlin, Clyde Stubbefield, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, Youngblood Brass Band, and many others.

The Jimmys released their début CD "Gimme The Jimmys" in 2011, followed by “Hot Dish” in 2016. Their most recent album "Gotta Have It" is also garnering critical acclaim in the blues world. Produced by Tony Braunagel (drummer for Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt, Robert Cray) this new 13 song CD features The Jimmys at full throttle, and includes "Write a Hit" which was co-written and performed with Marcia Ball.

News Release

May 19, 2021

Horicon Bank Summer Concert Series set to Return

June 3rd through August 27th

We are excited to announce that the Ripon Concert Series is set to resume this summer, and planning is almost complete. After a one-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, this year's series will feature one of our best lineups ever. We’re welcoming you back to the heart of our community, where every Friday evening, June 4 through August 27, you're invited to experience the power of music. There is something for everyone in our diverse lineup of professional musicians.

Several community favorites are set to return including Star Six Nine, Road Trip, and Cherry Pie. New groups have also been worked into the schedule including the Zac Matthews Band and Madison County. In addition, we are excited to announce that national recording artist Tantric will conclude the 2021 season on August 27 as our signature artist. Local favorite Avalanche Lilly has agreed to be the opening band. This is shaping up to be our best season ever!

The events and activities organized by Main Street enhance the image of our community, making Ripon a desirable place to live, work and play. We encourage you to join us this year as an Entertainer Sponsor or as a Friend of the Green. Donations of any amount will help this event continue. Please consider this as an invitation to partner with us as we take the concert series to the next level.

We are thankful for the support of our many sponsors, who make this popular and ever-expanding event possible. Please consider this as an invitation to partner with us as we take the concert series to the next level. Ripon Main Street is a 501c3 not-for-profit tax-exempt organization. All proceeds go to support the ongoing revitalization efforts of Ripon’s historic central business district. Donations of any amount are welcome and may be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI 54971. Gifts to Ripon Main Street are tax deductible. Contact the Main Street office at 920-748-7466 for more information.

We also want to recognize that we are well aware of the challenges associated with planning events in the midst of a pandemic. While we can’t predict the future, the vaccination process is well underway, and we will take every precaution to maintain a safe performance environment.

Ripon Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover what makes our community so special. Follow us @downtownripon on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

News Release

December 19, 2020

Planning Resumes on Horicon Bank Summer Concert Series

June 3rd through August 27th

After a one-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, the streets of downtown Ripon will once again be filled with the sound of music this summer. Planning for the 2021 Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert season is underway, and this year's series will include a greater variety of music than ever before. Organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., the free outdoor concerts take place on Friday evenings at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

The series features a diverse group of entertainers encompassing a wide range of musical styles. Several community favorites are set to return to the lineup including Star Six Nine, Road Trip, and Cherry Pie. New groups are also being added to the schedule including the Zac Matthews Band and Madison County. Ripon Main Street will announce the final additions to the series in the coming weeks, choosing a selection of new bands and old favorites visitors will find appealing.

The concerts run from 7:00 to 10:00 pm and take place at The Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street (101 W. Seward Street). The concerts typically occur on Friday evenings, June through August, but occasionally bonus concerts are added or events rescheduled due to weather issues. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on.

NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. Free music isn’t really free.

A special Thank You to the local businesses that sponsor the music series. Let them know you appreciate the financial commitment they have made to our community. Without their support, there would not be a concert series. Additional donations are still needed to fully fund this year’s concert series. Donations of any amount are welcome and may be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI  54971.

Ripon Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover what makes our community so special.

News Release

May 31, 2021

Ripon Community Concert features Jazz at the Village Green

Join us for a special evening of Jazz on the Green this week (Thursday, June 3) for performances by the Ripon Middle School (RMS) and Ripon High School (RHS) Jazz Bands. The FREE concert, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon, Wisconsin.

RMS Jazz, a 10-piece group comprised of grade seven and eight band students, will kick-off the evening at 6:30 pm. The students will perform variety of swing and jazz/rock standards. The RHS jazz ensemble will complete the evening, performing an assortment of music ranging from swing, funk and Latin, to a few rock tunes. Throughout the evening, various band members will be featured as soloists.

The Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series officially kicks off on Friday, June 4th with The Jimmys, Wisconsin’s premier blues and R&B powerhouse band. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park.

Planning for the series is almost complete with one exception. Additional donations are still needed to fully fund the series and offset entertainment expenses. Donations of any amount may be given and can be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI 54971.

The events and activities organized by Main Street enhance the image of our community, making Ripon a desirable place to live, work and play. Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality.

News Release

COVID-19 Forces Cancellation of 2020 Summer Concert Season

Plans for the 28th annual Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert season were completed long before COVID-19 became a world-wide health crisis. Unfortunately, the event has been cancelled due to concerns related to hosting large events. We have tentatively rebooked most of the 2020 lineup for next season.

The health and well-being of the fans, musicians, volunteers and the public is our top priority. On behalf of our sponsors and the downtown business community, we sincerely appreciate your patience and continued support during this trying time. In addition, the cooperative spirit displayed by the bands we work with is remarkable. Please support local musicians by visiting their websites and purchasing their CDs and merchandise.

Your patience and continued support is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to seeing you when safety permits. Follow us @downtownripon on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

News Release

December 26, 2019

THANK YOU for helping make the 2019 concert season a tremendous success

Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series Update... we would like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our sponsors and patrons that helped make the 2019 concert season the most successful in its 27 year history!

Planning is already underway for the upcoming season which kicks off in just six months. We hope to have the 2020 schedule finalized by the end of February. Until then...Keep Warm :-)

Title Sponsor: Horicon Bank

Band Sponsors: Aither State Farm Insurance, Alliance Laundry Systems, Culver's of Ripon, General Beer NE, Karsnia Agency - COUNTRY Financial, Nevitt Law Office, Rauch Family Dentistry, Signarama, Silver Creek Dentistry/Knuth Brewing Company, Ultimart/Condon Oil Company, von Briesen & Roper

Friends of the Village Green: Anonymous Donations, The Backstage Studio, Bluemkes Food Mart, Bright Orthodontics, Camera Casino, Audrey Conant, Diedrich Agency, Diedrich Jewelers, Hillside Dental Associates, Debbie & Henry Hilscher, Steve Axle Hinckley, KSF CPA Services, Brandon & Pam Mumm, Bill & Judy Neill, Ripon Printers, Emily & Peter Sensenbrenner

Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Bug, 93.1 FM & AM 1600, 96.9 the fox, 96-1 The Rock, NASH FM 99.5, Ripon Commonwealth Press/Express

Hospitality Sponsors: Comfort Suites

News Release

September 4, 2019

National Recording Artist TRAPT to close out Ripon Summer Concert Season

National recording artist TRAPT will conclude the 2019 Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series this Friday, September 6th with a special season ending bonus performance. Opening band Stone Crow will kick off the concert at 7:00 pm. We saved the best for last, so don't miss this spectacular event!

The FREE concert, which is co-sponsored by Signarama and Horicon Bank, takes place from 7:00 to 10:30 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon. 96.9 The Fox is the media sponsor for this performance.

TRAPT is an American rock band that formed in Los Gatos, California, in 1995. The band is best known for its chart-topping 2002 single "Headstrong" from their self-titled album, with the video receiving over 42 million views on Youtube.

Members of the band met in middle school in the mid-'90s, and were in an early cover band. Shortly thereafter, the band reformed, bringing on lead vocalist Chris Taylor Brown, guitarist Simon Ormandy, bassist Peter "Pete" Charell, and David Stege on drums. Brown and Charell have guided the band ever since, with guitarist Brendan Hengle and drummer Adam Prentice coming on board to replace Ormandy and Stege.

The band's first few rehearsals were in Ormandy's guesthouse, which had a party-like atmosphere with its loft overlooking the living room. They began playing at local venues in 1997 before any members had graduated high school. The band received a great response and a positive buzz soon started to grow. In 1998, still before graduation, they were already opening for up-and-coming fellow acts like Papa Roach.

They recorded and released their first CD, Amalgamation in 1999, which they sold at their live shows. Between the strength of these releases and the successes in touring, they were able to garner major record label attention. They have released seven studio albums to date, and recently released a new single titled “Come Together” which features rapper An0maly. Throughout the summer and fall, the band has been taking part in the Mudfest tour featuring Saliva, Saving Abel, Tantric and Puddle of Mudd.

The series is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc. and takes place at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Please, NO CARRY-INs because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. All performances are free and open to the public.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality. Follow us on Facebook to catch all the latest updates regarding the concert series.

News Release

August 27, 2019

National Recording Artist Keith Anderson to perform at Summer Concert Series

Keith Anderson returns to the Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series this Friday, Aug. 30, bringing his I'll Bring the Music Tour back to Ripon for the second consecutive year. Opening band Dexter Road will kick off the concert at 7:00 pm. This is one concert you certainly won't want to miss!

The FREE concert, which is co-sponsored by Condon Oil Company and Ultimart, takes place from 7:00 to 10:30 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon. NASH FM 99.5 is the media sponsor for this performance.

Singer/Songwriter Keith Anderson’s latest hit song “I’ll Bring The Music” sums up Anderson to a T. That is one thing that you can always say about Anderson who grew up in the small town of Miami, OK. He always excelled at anything he has put his mind to, and he WILL bring the Music.

His 2005 debut CD, “Three Chord Country and American Rock & Roll”, was certified Gold and garnered two Top 10 hits (accompanied by two No. 1 music videos), “Pickin’ Wildflowers,” and “Every Time I Hear Your Name,” along with two Top 30 hits “XXL” and “Podunk”. This success prompted music trades Billboard and Radio & Records to name him country music’s No. 1 New Male Artist of 2005 and the top new solo country artist of the year. Anderson’s sophomore CD in 2008 garnered the biggest hit of his career, “I Still Miss You”, which peaked at #2 and another Top 25 hit, “Sunday Morning In America”.

Although he has co-written hits for other artists, most notably “Lost In This Moment”, the No. 1 smash for Big & Rich which garnered him a CMA and ACM Song of the Year nomination, Anderson does not write with other artists in mind. “I think I’ll always write about what I know and feel–and typically with myself in mind. However, I write a lot and I keep the songs that are really speaking to me when I’m recording, and pitch everything else to other artists”, says Anderson. Anderson also co-wrote the Grammy-nominated, “Beer Run (B Double E Double Are You In?)” for Garth Brooks and George Jones, “The Bed” for Gretchen Wilson and “Barn Burner” for Jason Michael Carroll.

Taking the lead with other gold and platinum artists, Anderson decided to take hold of the reigns this time by launching his music his own way and letting the fans help drive his music and passion. Since 2010, Anderson has recorded and released a few tracks, via his fan club on his official website. Those songs include "Wild Girls" and the underground hit "Your Town for Now". In May 2014, Anderson released the single "I'll Bring the Music" which received airplay on Country stations across the US. Anderson released a full-length album of the same name later that year which is available on his website and at his live performances.

Anderson co-wrote on each of the album's tracks, and the song “I’ll Bring the Music” has had a huge resonance with the fans. “As I tour all over the country, that is the song that gets the crowd on their feet, and it’s the song they are still singing as they head out the door. It reminds me of how “Pickin’ Wildflowers moved them,” stated Anderson.

The tour to promote Anderson’s comeback resumed this summer with shows across the U.S. “We are delighted to have Keith returning to the Ripon Summer Concert Series,” said Craig Tebon, Ripon’s Downtown Manager. “He put on a fantastic show for us last year and we can’t wait to see him again.”

The series is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc. and takes place at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Please, NO CARRY-INs because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. All performances are free and open to the public.

The concert series usually takes place through the end of August, but is extending into the first week of September (9/6) this season with a special bonus concert featuring national recording artist TRAP along with opening band Stone Crow.

News Release

August 20, 2019

Summer Concert Series features Altered Five Blues Band

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, August 23rd) features the explosive, hard driving blue collar rockin’ blues of Altered Five Blues Band. The FREE concert, which is co-sponsored by Alliance Laundry Systems, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon.

Altered Five Blues Band makes music with a swaggering stomp of bruising, barrelhouse grit. According to Downbeat magazine, front-man Jeff Taylor “sings powerfully” and “Jeff Schroedl’s live-wire guitar reaches the high bar of mixed invention and fluidity.” Blues Bytes magazine declares the group features “the funkiest rhythm section outside of Memphis.”

A 2018 Blues Music Award nominee, the Milwaukee-based quintet will release its new album, Ten Thousand Watts, September 6 on Blind Pig Records. Recorded over four days in Nashville, TN and produced by three-time Grammy winner Tom Hambridge, the 12 tracks stir up a thunderstorm of original, roots-rockin’ music. The collection of succinct, tight-but-loose songs reflect the continuing evolution of the band’s deft songwriting, blended with the intuitive musical interplay of the longtime band-mates.

The new album arrives on the heels of back-to-back award-winning records. Cryin’ Mercy won “Best Self-Released Album” at the International Blues Challenge in 2015, and Charmed & Dangerous scored Song of the Year at both the Independent Music Awards and Wisconsin Music Awards in 2018. Both albums reached the Top 5 in the iTunes blues store and hit #1 on the Roots Music Report Blues Album Chart. Guitar World magazine called the song “Charmed & Dangerous” a “menacing, swampy blues,” and the track has been in regular rotation on SiriusXM’s Bluesville along with many other programs and playlists.

Altered Five Blues Band now have five studio albums to their name. The group has performed at many renowned festivals and venues such as: Grolsch Blues Fest (Germany), W.C. Handy Blues Fest (Kentucky), Ann Arbor Blues Fest, King Biscuit Blues Fest, Baltic Blues Fest (Germany), Milwaukee Summerfest, Magic City Blues Fest (Montana), Fargo Blues Fest, B.B. King’s Blues Club (Memphis), Buddy Guy’s Legends (Chicago), and several appearances on local television. They will also return to Europe in the Fall of 2019 for shows in Switzerland.

The series is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc. and takes place at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Please, NO CARRY-INs because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses.

Next week’s concert features country music national recording artist Keith Anderson along with opening band Dexter Road.

News Release

August 14, 2019

David Gerald returns to Summer Concert Series

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, August 16th) features the return of ... David Gerald, a dynamic, blues-infused rock and soul guitarist from Michigan. The FREE concert, which is co-sponsored by Rauch Family Dentistry and Ripon Printers, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon.

David Gerald grew up to the sounds of the Blues, R&B and Rock in his hometown of Detroit. He started playing guitar at 14, influenced by Prince and other '80s rock guitarists. "I was lucky enough to have a neighbor who was a guitarist and gave me scrap guitars. I would piece them together and build 'Frankenstein' guitars," says Gerald. "They were horrible to play and sounded bad, but I just had this tremendous desire to play music. After a while, I finally scraped up enough money to buy an old amp and I was happy. Music was and is my destiny."

Gerald began his music career by performing with many Detroit area blues, R&B, and rock bands. Finding it hard to keep bands together, Gerald learned to play bass, keyboard and drums, and began writing and recording his own music. As he matured, he rediscovered the blues and listened to the music of Albert King, ZZ Hill, B.B. King, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, to name just a few.

Gerald's music has received widespread radio play, along with recognition in the Blues and Rock communities. His debut album "Hell and Back" reached #1 on Roots Music Report's Blues Chart for Michigan based artists, and remained in the top 20 for many weeks in a row. Gerald's follow up album 'Blues Soul Rocker' was released in late 2016 and has received critical acclaim. Gerald's most recent album, N2U, was released in April 2018. "This album has been a long time coming," Gerald comments. "I put together these songs for myself, my friends and supporters. It's all about new thoughts, new experiences and deeply felt emotions. I hope everyone who listens can find something that touches them. Something they can relate to.

The series is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc. and takes place at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. All performances are free and open to the public. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses.

Next week’s concert features the explosive, hard driving blue collar rockin’ blues of Altered Five Blues Band.

News Release

August 6, 2019

Summer Concert features Feed the Dog & Wheelhouse

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, August 9th) features one of Wisconsin's hottest rock cover bands ... Cherry Pie. The concert, which is sponsored by KSF CPA Services, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon, Wisconsin.

Cherry Pie plays all of the biggest “Hair Band” hits and ballads of the 80’s, as well as a few anthems from the 70’s. They are well known for performing over-the-top renditions of hits by Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Poison, Journey, Motley Crue and many others. Since forming in 1999, Cherry Pie has performed over 1000 live shows, racked up numerous awards, and have been featured on numerous stages including Summerfest and the Wisconsin State Fair.

The series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place through the end of August at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. In addition, a special bonus concert with TRAPT will conclude the series on Friday, September 6th.

A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Please, NO CARRY-INs because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. Enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality. Follow us on Facebook to catch all the latest updates regarding the concert series.

Next week’s concert features David Gerald, a blues-infused rock and soul hybrid band from Detroit.

News Release

August 1, 2019

Summer Concert features Feed the Dog & Wheelhouse

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, August 2nd) features two fantastic bands ... Feed the Dog and Wheelhouse. The concert takes place from 7:00 to 10:30 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon, Wisconsin.

Feed the Dog, an eclectic and action-packed, high-energy, jam-rock-grass band, will kick things off at 7:00 pm. The Appleton based group features masterfully crafted fiddle, Kottke like finger pickin' acoustic six and twelve string guitar, funky bass lines, and percussive soul.

Wheelhouse, a nationally touring Americana and bluegrass band, will take the stage at 9:00 pm and perform the second set. As a full-time working band, they perform over 200 shows per year and have garnered attention from national labels. Featuring three and four part harmonies, fiddle and guitar leads, and driving rhythm of the upright bass, Wheelhouse brings an energy and attitude unique to themselves.

The series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place through the end of August at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. In addition, a special bonus concert with TRAPT will conclude the series on Friday, September 6th.

Next week’s concert features Cherry Pie, Wisconsin's hottest rock cover band.

News Release

July 22, 2019

Road Trip returns to Ripon Summer Concert Series

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, July 26th) features the return of Road Trip one of Wisconsin’s most popular rock cover bands. The FREE concert, which is co-sponsored by Silver Creek Dentistry and Knuth Brewing Company, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

Road Trip is much more than your average cover band. They have developed a tremendous regional following by mastering the two key elements of rock and roll: diversity and energy. A concert by Road Trip features video screens and state-of-the-art light show, put on by dedicated musicians and singers who love what they do, and it shows. They continuously create new videos and add new music to their set lists, keeping their shows fresh and full of energy.

Award winning vocalists Chris Szebeni, formerly of Boxkar, and Amy Jo Doty lead the band through a 3+ hour show filled with songs from everyone’s favorite artists. Pink, U2, Chris Stapleton, The Romantics, Katy Perry, Kid Rock, Maroon 5, Ozzy, Keith Urban and Guns & Roses are just a few of the bands Road Trip brings to life. The music behind the vocals includes Jason Busse on lead guitar, DJ Doty on rhythm guitar, Robert George Welsch Jr. on bass and Matt Gieseke on drums. Every show they give 100% of themselves to their fans and to the music. They want every person to experience the party that the band is throwing; loud, wild, exciting, surprising, real and up-close!

Road Trip has won many awards throughout the years for Cover Band of the year along with Female and Male Vocalist of the year. Not to mention they have been nominated in at least one category every year for the Wisconsin Area Music Industry Awards (WAMI).

The series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place through the end of August at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. In addition, a special bonus concert with TRAPT will conclude the series on Friday, September 6th.

Next week’s concert features Feed the Dog, an eclectic and action-packed, high-energy, jam-rock-grass band.

News Release

July 15, 2019

Ripon Summer Concert features Kyle Megna & The Monsoons

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series (Friday, July 19th) features a free performance by Kyle Megna & The Monsoons in downtown Ripon. The concert, which takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green, is sponsored by Nevitt Law Office.

The Monsoons musical style is categorized as “dark-indie-blues-folk-rock feel.” They produce a magnetic sound that’s ever-charged with surges of creativity and artistic experimentation. Fused with a healthy dose of spontaneity and humor, Kyle Megna and the Monsoons channel can’t-get-enough energy that’s good for the soul.

Kyle Megna and the Monsoons (2017 & 2018 Wisconsin Area Music Industry Alternative Rock/Rock Artist of the year) are an original Wisconsin band with an ever-growing following locally and beyond. Touring the Mid-West and South-East, the Monsoons are a tight-knit group of accomplished, charismatic musicians with diverse backgrounds, these guys know how to have fun while always keeping it professional. Best seen live, they feed off the vibe of the crowd as well as each other. The band has shared the stage with acts such as Toto, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Rusted Root, Jack Russell's Great White, and Here Come The Mummies.

The series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place through the end of August at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. In addition, a special bonus concert with TRAPT will conclude the series on Friday, September 6th.

Next week’s concert features Road Trip, one of Wisconsin’s most popular rock cover bands.

News Release

July 11, 2019

Ripon Summer Concert features Tallan Noble Latz

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series welcomes Tallan Noble Latz, a high energy power blues/rock guitarist, to the Village Green. The FREE concert, which is sponsored by Diedrich Agency and Diedrich Jewelers, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm in historic downtown Ripon.

Latz has been heralded as a guitar phenom, the next big thing, even likened to Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix. Latz began performing professionally at age 6, and since then has made recordings, performed on stage with numerous blues legends, and appeared as a contestant on America's Got Talent. In 2009, he received a standing ovation from the audience, and all three judges approved of sending him to the next round.

Over the years, Latz has had the privilege to share the stage side by side and trade licks with some of the greatest musicians around: Joe Bonamassa, Buddy Guy, Jonny Lang, Jackson Browne, Chris Duarte, and Lonnie Brooks, to name just a few. Latz has opened for numerous blues legends including BB King, Los Lonely Boys, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Walter Trout, and Johnny Winter. But his GREATEST HONOR was sharing the stage with the legendary Les Paul. In fact, at age 8, he was the youngest person to have ever shared the stage with Les Paul.

Tallan takes great pride in what he does and with his countless hours of practice and his experience of 600+ shows, he utilizes his music prowess to create a one-of-a-kind MUSICAL EXPERIENCE that very few entertainers at any age can achieve. This is one show you won’t want to miss!

News Release

July 1, 2019

Ripon Summer Concert features THE NOW

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series welcomes THE NOW to the Village Green on Friday evening July 5th. The FREE concert, which is sponsored by Horicon Bank, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon.

The Now has been a staple of the southeast Wisconsin cover band scene for over 13 years and has quickly propelled themselves to the biggest festival venues in the market. Priding themselves as an established, experienced rock band, The Now provides an engaging show with touring level sound and lighting to match their tight vocal harmonies and musicianship.

The band features lead vocalist Joe Gleesing who brings a lifetime of experience as their front-man. His great tenor voice and energetic performing style brings diversity and pop texture to the band, and his showmanship adds the right amount of rock and roll attitude to the band. Guitarist Michael Rossa is Joe's "right hand man" in their tight, two part harmonies. A vocalist and songwriter in his own right, Mike has always shared the other member's passion for recreating the great songs as they were recorded, with just a tiny hint of improvisation. Rounding out the band are bassist Scott Lowe and drummer Jim Winter who is the newest addition to group.

Performing every weekend has made this band a tight live act with pro performers who truly love what they do. The Now has performed on stage at countless festivals, venues and clubs, and opened for some of the industry’s top acts including Pat Benatar, The Offspring, The Outfield, Loverboy, Sister Hazel, Bret Michaels, Molly Hatchet, Wilco, and REO Speedwagon.

News Release

June 25, 2019

Ripon Summer Concert features Star Six Nine

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series features the return of Star Six Nine. The concert, which is sponsored by Karsnia Agency - COUNTRY Financial, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon.

A performance by the Star Six Nine combines five individuals whose aspirations include one thing: performing great music and producing a fun show (Ok...that's 2 things). Their goal is to get the crowd to have a great time by performing a variety of rock, pop and even a few country tunes. They love mixing things up, and you'll never know what you might hear next.

The series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place through the end of August at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. In addition, a special bonus concert with TRAPT will conclude the series on Friday, September 6th.

News Release

June 18, 2019

5 Card Studs returning to the Ripon Summer Concert Series

This week’s Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series features the return of hardest working lounge band in the Midwest, the 5 Card Studs. The concert, which is sponsored by Aither State Farm Insurance, takes place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon.

A performance by the 5 Card Studs features a unique blend of big-time Las Vegas attitude and 70’s TV game show schmaltz, all glossed over with a washed-up lounge/wedding singer veneer. Musically, their performances feature many recognizable 60s & 70s AM Gold classics – hits from artists such as Neil Diamond, Engelbert Humperdink, Tom Jones, Santana; soul classics from Al Green, Smokey Robinson, The Spinners, Wilson Pickett; one-hit wonders like Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl), Hooked On A Feeling, Green Eyed Lady, Hot Child In The City, and The Love Boat; disco hits by the Bee Gees…the entire list is just too huge to mention. All of this is delivered by seasoned veterans, making the performance highly entertaining.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality. Follow us on Facebook to catch all the latest updates regarding the concert series.

News Release

June 12, 2019

Bad Habitz will make their debut at Ripon Summer Concert Series

Bad Habitz makes their debut this Friday, June 14th at the 27th annual Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series. The concert, which is sponsored by local law firm von Briesen & Roper, s.c., will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

Bad Habitz is a talented, hard-working youth rock band. Heavily influenced by 80's rock music, this 3-piece band will amaze you with not only their ability to play, but also with their stage presence. The band performs with a seasoned maturity and confidence that will shock audiences of all ages. Started as a family project in 2010, this brother and sister band transitioned out of the basement and onto the stage with the professionalism and polish of an adult act.

Their stage experience began with performing mini-concerts at regular recitals. In a very short time, they earned the headline spot at the Heid's Music, Kids Rock Benefit Show held in January of 2011 at the Outer Edge Stage in Appleton. There, sharing the stage with 3 other area youth bands, they lived up to their growing reputation as a polished and entertaining act. In just 6 months' time, their hard work and dedication earned them their first WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) nomination for "Rising Star" in 2012. Since then, they have been nominated four times for a WAMI Award in the category of Rising Star - winning the award in 2014, and were recently nominated in the Best Rock Band category in 2017. Their growing reputation and swelling fanbase has landed them many festival gigs as well as created the opportunity to open for several national acts.

News Release

June 5, 2019

Concert Series kicks off with Stephen Cooper & Nobody Famous

Stephen Cooper and The Nobody Famous will kick-off the 27th annual Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series on Friday, June 7th. The concert, which is sponsored by General Beer NE , will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Village Green in downtown Ripon.

Stephen Cooper has been a bandleader, sideman, and touring musician for over 25 years. In that time, he has played in 21 states and 7 countries with numerous groups, most namely WiFEE and the HUZz BAND and The Groove Hogs. Deeply rooted in jazz, r&b, and blues, Coop draws in vocal influences such as Amy Winehouse, Otis Redding, Stevie Wonder, and Al Green, while also being a highly accomplished saxophonist and instrumental soloist. Each member of Nobody Famous is a superstar on their own.

The series, which is organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., takes place through the end of August at the Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street in historic downtown Ripon. In addition, a special bonus concert with TRAPT will conclude the series on Friday, September 6th.

News Release

May 28, 2019

Ripon Community Concert features Jazz at the Village Green

Join us for an evening of Jazz on the Green tonight (Thursday, May 30th) for performances by the Ripon Middle School (RMS) and Ripon High School (RHS) Jazz Bands. The FREE concert, which is sponsored by Culver's of Ripon, will take place from 6:30 to 9:30 pm at the Village Green in historic downtown Ripon, Wisconsin.

RMS Jazz, a 35+ piece group comprised of grade seven and eight band students, will kick-off the evening at 6:30 pm. The students will perform variety of swing and jazz/rock standards.

The RHS jazz ensemble will complete the evening, performing an assortment of music ranging from swing, funk and Latin, to a few rock tunes. Throughout the evening, various band members will be featured as soloists.

The Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series begins on Friday, June 7th with Stephen Cooper and The Nobody Famous, one of Wisconsin’s best powerhouse horn bands featuring R&B, jazz, soul, blues, and funk music styles. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park.

Planning for the series is almost complete with one exception. Additional donations are still needed to fully fund the series and offset entertainment expenses. Donations of any amount may be given and can be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI 54971.

The events and activities organized by Main Street enhance the image of our community, making Ripon a desirable place to live, work and play. Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality.

News Release

May 15, 2019

Horicon Bank named official title sponsor for Ripon Summer Concert Series

When the Ripon Summer Concert Series returns to the Village Green for its 27th season Thursday, May 30, it will be under a new name. Long-time concert supporter, Horicon Bank, has assumed naming rights for the popular series through 2021, during which time it will be known as the Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series.

Horicon Bank is the first-ever title sponsor of the series, organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., and will be joined by several other area businesses, organizations and individuals who have contributed to the series as Friends of the Village Green or as sponsors of individual bands and performers.

“We are excited to take the concert series to the next level with the support of Horicon Bank, a trusted community partner with a history of helping to grow Ripon and small communities throughout Wisconsin,” said Tom Moniz, president of Ripon Main Street, Inc. “Horicon Bank’s title sponsorship is not only helping us attract new visitors during concert nights, it’s helping us continue to make an impact throughout the downtown district, whether by planting trees, hanging light pole banners, adding park benches, fixing facades, attracting new entrepreneurs and so much more.”

Horicon Bank operates 15 branches across the state of Wisconsin. They opened their first Ripon location in 1998, and added a second location inside Webster’s Marketplace in 2009. They maintain additional locations in Green Lake, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Beaver Dam, Appleton, West Bend, Mayville, Iron Ridge and Neosho, in addition to its central branch in Horicon, Wisconsin. In February, Horicon Bank announced plans to acquire Markesan State Bank with branches in Markesan, Waupun and Randolph.

“Horicon Bank is proud to accelerate its support of this family-friendly concert series and continue to help propel the ongoing revitalization of downtown Ripon,” said Jeff Liddicoat, senior vice president of Horicon Bank. “We are committed to improving the communities in which we operate, including through providing access to quality cultural and artistic opportunities like this series. We look forward to sharing in the success of the upcoming season.”

Organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., the free outdoor concerts take place on the Village Green on Main Street every Friday from 7-10 p.m. throughout the summer. The season kicks off Thursday, May 30, with “Jazz on the Green,” featuring the Ripon Middle and High School jazz bands. Wisconsin’s premier 80’s rock cover band, Stephen Cooper & Nobody Famous leads off the series on Friday, June 7.

"We have assembled a roster of high caliber entertainers for the 2019 season, including the highly anticipated return of national country music recording artist Keith Anderson on Aug. 30, and the debut of TRAPT, a national recording and touring rock band Sept. 7,” said Craig Tebon, executive director of Ripon Main Street, Inc. “These events would not be possible without the generous support of donors and volunteers. We appreciate the significant contributions made by Horicon Bank and all of our sponsors.”

A mixture of new bands and old favorites are returning to the lineup for the 2019 season, including Star Six Nine (Jun. 28), Road Trip (July 26), and Cherry Pie (Aug 9). In addition, five new groups--The Now, Kyle Megna & The Monsoons, Feed the Dog, Altered Five Blues Band, and TRAPT--make their debut this summer. View the full 2019 lineup of bands along with links to their websites at https://tinyurl.com/y5dlro9e.

A variety of beverages are available and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park, beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. Additional donations to support the concert series may be made to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI 54971.

The events and activities organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc. enhance the image of our community, making Ripon a desirable place to live, work and play. Whether through hosting engaging events like the concert series or WineWalks, attracting and retaining businesses, providing consulting services, facade grants and other beautification efforts, Ripon Main Street, Inc. is constantly working to preserve and enhance Ripon central downtown historic business district.

Ripon Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover the charm of small town hospitality. Follow us on Facebook to catch all the latest updates regarding the concert series.

News Release

February 1, 2019

Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series

June 7th through September 6th

For the 27th consecutive summer, the streets of downtown Ripon will be filled with the sound of music when the Horicon Bank Ripon Summer Concert Series returns. This year's series includes a greater variety of music than ever before. Organized by Ripon Main Street, Inc., the free outdoor concerts take place on Friday evenings at the Village Green in downtown Ripon. A special bonus concert by the RMS and RHS Jazz Bands is planned for Thursday, May 30th. The summer series kicks off on Friday, June 7th with Stephen Cooper & Nobody Famous.

The series features a diverse group of entertainers encompassing a wide range of musical styles. Several community favorites are returning to the lineup including Cherry Pie, Road Trip and Star Six Nine. Several new groups have also been added to the schedule including Bad Habitz, Kyle Megna & The Monsoons, Feed the Dog and Altered Five Blues Band. Ripon Main Street will announce the final two concerts of the season in the coming weeks. We believe you will find the mixture of new bands and old favorites very appealing.

The concerts run from 7:00 to 10:00 pm and take place at The Village Green located at the corner of Watson and Seward Street (101 W. Seward Street for GPS purposes). The series typically takes place on Friday evenings, June through August, but occasionally bonus concerts are added or events rescheduled due to weather issues. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. NO CARRY-INs are allowed in the park because beverage sales help cover entertainment expenses. Free music isn’t really free.

A special Thank You goes out to the local businesses that sponsor the music series. Let them know you appreciate the financial commitment they have made to our community. We are grateful to have their support, because there would not be a concert series without their financial assistance.

Ripon Main Street, Inc. invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment in historic downtown Ripon and discover what makes our community so special.

2019 Concert Sponsors

A special Thank You goes out to following businesses and individuals for sponsoring the summer concert series. Let them know you appreciate the financial commitment they have made to our community. Additional donations are still needed to fully fund this year’s concert series. Donations of any amount may be given and can be sent to: Ripon Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 365, Ripon, WI  54971.

Title Sponsor: Horicon Bank

Band Sponsors: Aither State Farm Insurance, Alliance Laundry Systems, Culver's of Ripon, General Beer NE, Karsnia Agency - COUNTRY Financial, Nevitt Law Office, Signarama, Silver Creek Dentistry/Knuth Brewing Company, Ultimart/Condon Oil Company, von Briesen & Roper

Friends of the Village Green: Anonymous Donations, The Backstage Studio, Bluemkes Food Mart, Bright Orthodontics, Camera Casino, Audrey Conant, Diedrich Agency, Diedrich Jewelers, Hillside Dental Associates, Debbie & Henry Hilscher, Steve Axle Hinkley, KSF CPA Services, Brandon & Pam Mumm, Bill & Judy Neill, Rauch Family Dentistry, Ripon Printers, Emily & Peter Sensenbrenner

Media Sponsors: 102.3 The Bug, 93.1 FM & AM 1600, 96.9 the fox, 96-1 The Rock, NASH FM 99.5, Ripon Commonwealth Press/Express

Hospitality Sponsors: Comfort Suites

View our full calendar of events