Musicians converge on South Side Works

Though most of us would choose to ignore it, music and industry have long gone hand in hand…. Though most of us would choose to ignore it, music and industry have long gone hand in hand. After all, music says something about a culture that few other medias can. And however you feel about the association, the two will gloriously frolic through the South Side Works in just a few weeks for the New American Music Union festival.

American Eagle Outfitters hopes to change how we feel about music and industry’s relationship – minus the pirating – and why we love music in the first place Aug. 8-9 at South Side Works for the New American Music Union festival, curated by Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Friday’s show starts at 5 p.m., and Saturday’s starts at 11 a.m. Not all of these tunes are something you can find for your iPod, though.

“Music is a defining influence in our customers’ lives,” said Beth Barney, public relations representative, via e-mail. “We set out to offer our customers an unparalleled music experience at a great value.”

Student tickets for the two-day festival are only $25.

Not that it matters anymore – the show is sold out. Barney ensures that people who want to see the event, however, can watch online at www.ae.com starting Aug. 12.

As for organizing the event, Kiedis is quoted on American Eagle’s Web site saying that concerts can be a life changing. “That is how I approached putting this lineup together. The thrill of seeing Bob Dylan next to The Raconteurs next to Spoon next to The Roots is reason for us all to celebrate.” The show will also feature Gnarls Barkley, The Duke Spirit and others.

Along with those big names, a multitude of free second-stage lineups consisting of college-student bands will be joining in the life-changing experience. These include Bears from Kent State University, The Depreciation Guild from New York University and Gospel Gossip from Carleton College. There will even be some homegrown talent: Nothing Unexpected from Robert Morris University is slated to appear.

“American Eagle Outfitters created this festival to give college bands a national platform and the opportunity to share the stage with the artists that most inspire them,” said Barney.

“The artists for the New American Music Union were selected primarily by [Kiedis] with partnership from AE,” she continued.

As something of a rock legend, Kiedis knows the importance of music – it’s not just about the tunes or the lyrics, but also the fun associated with them.

“Music is still the most inspiring creative force that I know of, and this seemed like a prime opportunity to let it shine.”

It will be interesting to see how the collegiate acts stack up and shine alongside the likes of Bob Dylan.