Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1517159
Macon stands out as a vibrant epicenter for today's music scene. It's a city where contemporary chart-toppers reverberate with a unique sound, seamlessly blending the old and new. The city's melodious roots stretch back to iconic figures like Little Richard, Otis Redding, and the Allman Brothers. Their influence echoes in the contemporary tunes defining Macon's sonic landscape today. Macon is topping today's charts with a rich and diverse range of artists and genres. From 2WIN, with Macon's own Guap Records, and Young Jeezy, to country sensation Jason Aldean, and the pioneers of chillwave, Washed Out, Macon continually nurtures a dynamic and evolving music scene. Live music pulses through Macon's veins, with venues catering to every taste: from intimate outdoor spots like Society Garden (2389 Ingleside Ave.), to local hangouts with popular open mics and live jazz like JBA (425 Cherry St.), Latin dance music at El Paraiso (2822 Bloomfield Dr.), and historic downtown gems like Grant's Lounge (576 Poplar St.), Capitol Theatre (382 Second St.), and Macon City Auditorium (415 First St.). The city's stages host a mix of regional and local talents. Experience sacred music surrounded by Carrara marble and vaulted stained glass in a gothic cathedral at St. Joseph's, or see a Hayiya Dance performance for African percussion. Even the symphony will surprise you. Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra push the boundaries of traditional orchestral music with creative programming. And Macon Pops will have you dancing to big music, from soulful to slow jams. First Friday celebrations in Downtown Macon immerse you in live music that spills onto the sidewalks. Bragg Jam festival is an epic, multi-stage concert crawl featuring local, regional, and national touring acts on the last Saturday of each July, amplifying the city's summertime vibes. Mercer University plays a dynamic role in bridging Macon's music past to the present. Mercer Music at Capricorn (540 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) is home to the iconic Capricorn Records recording studio. Now equipped with two new, state-of-the-art recording spaces, this historic facility also includes a Capricorn Macon is music. Rock Candy Tours 18