Musical mélange

If you want to know what the music scene in Atlanta is all about, all you have to do is listen. Centennial Olympic Park, a short distance from the site of the 2017 Rotary International Convention from 10 to 14 June, is home to an outdoor summer music series, featuring everything from pop to jazz to old-school hip-hop. That range of styles is just a taste of the musical melting pot you’ll find else-where in the city — and beyond.

With a list of famous residents that includes names like André 3000, ­Ludacris, Lil Jon, and T.I., Atlanta has serious hip-hop credentials. You can hear the next big thing at spots like Apache Café and MJQ Concourse. Fans of rock music won’t feel left out in the ATL either; acts like indie favourites Deerhunter call the city home. And while jazz aficionados will miss the Atlanta Jazz Festival — one of the country’s largest free jazz fests, held in May — you can hear it in several local clubs.

About a 90-minute drive east of the city, music lovers will find a sort of mecca in Athens. Sometimes called “the Liverpool of the South,” the charming college town has had a significant influence on country, bluegrass and — most notably — alternative and new wave music. The list of artists who’ve called Athens home includes the B-52s, R.E.M., Of Montreal, Danger Mouse and Drive-By Truckers. While you’re in town, take in a show at the renowned 40 Watt Club or at the historic Georgia Theatre.

Register for the
2017 Rotary convention
Atlanta at www.riconvention.org.