BlueEd: Us & Them

Playing with Fire Saturday night tradition with BluesEd opener continues with an infectious show of blues and blues-inspired rock, funk, and soul by Us & Them. 

Band members ranging in age from 14 to 18 are a shining example of this unique youth artists development program second to none amongst student music programs across the US.

These young musicians deserve your early attendance to experience their inspiring performance!

Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal: From Local Favorite to Soul Sensation

Hailing from our own backyard, Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal are no strangers to the Omaha music scene. PwF producer, Jeff Davis recollects, "Josh Hoyer last performed at Playing with Fire in 2009 with his band Son of 76 & The Watchmen. Since then, he has been at the top of the Soul charts, runner up on The Voice, and their album, Green Light, won best self-produced CD at the 2023 International Blues Challenge."

This talented group of musicians fills the air with their authentic energy  and killer horns igniting the stage with their passion and groove. With Josh's soulful vocals leading the way, they will take you on a musical journey that you won't soon forget.

As Jeff Davis says, "They have souls and killer horns. I dig 'em both." Brace yourself for a night of soulful energy and infectious rhythms that will have you dancing under the stars."

Check out Josh and his band here:

Joanne Shaw Taylor: A British Blues Rock Guitarist Steeped in Modern Blues

Prepare to be blown away by the electrifying guitar skills and soulful voice of Joanne Shaw Taylor. As a longtime favorite of PwF volunteer, JB Duncan, her appearance on our stage is a dream come true.

With seven acclaimed albums under her belt, Joanne's music has earned her praise and recognition from legends like Jimmy Cliff, Joe Bonamassa, and Stevie Wonder. Her 2019 album, "Reckless Heart," even broke into the UK Top 20 Album Chart. But it's not just her guitar prowess that captivates audiences; it's the raw emotion and passion she pours into every note.

As Jeff Davis recalls, "JB Duncan asked me a couple of years back to book Joanne Shaw Taylor, the British blues rock guitarist. She is his favorite artist. Well, JB, here you go. Enjoy the show. You certainly earned it."

Joanne's soulful ballads and smoky blues numbers allure guitar lovers and memorize the listeners as she takes us on a musical journey of a lifetime.

Rick Galusha, host of Pacific Street Blues, recently noted, 'A Must See artist for any Modern Blues fan.' 

Let this listen take you to the Blues:

Bywater Call: From Toronto to Omaha, A Powerhouse Band

The night wouldn't be complete without the powerful presence of Bywater Call. As Jeff Davis explains, "There are only a few bands that I would travel to see night after night after night, and for Bywater Call, yes, yes I would."

This Toronto-based 7-piece band delivers a passionate and  commanding performance that  mesmerizes audiences across the generations.  Their stellar musicianship and killer horns are matched only by the captivating vocals of Meghan Parnell, whose voice puts an arrow through Jeff Davis's heart.

With passion and talent that knows no bounds, Bywater Call revitalizes the southern soul, blues, and roots music  with innovative material and a coherent production that finds the perfect balance between spark and musical excellence. Get ready to be moved, grooved, and spellbound by the magic that is Bywater Call.

A must hear of one of the producers favorites:

Join us on August 12 for an extraordinary night of performances that will leave you inspired, uplifted, and renewed....all under the stars and all completely FREE.

Bring your friends...bring your family... bring your picnics...

Immerse yourself in an evening of the best of the best that Playing with Fire has in store for you.

Stay tuned. Tell your family and friends. Watch for more updates and get ready for your best summertime fun with Omaha's Best FREE Summer Concert Series brought to you by Playing with Fire. 

A Weekend of Sensational Music - You. Won't. Want.To.Miss. 🔥🎶

Learn all about artists, venue, hotel accommodations, and event details visit PwF website: https://www.playingwithfireomaha.net