Diplo playing free show at new stage
One of the biggest DJs in the world is playing a free concert on Summerfest’s new stage.
EDM superstar Diplo will play the free #StageWarming concert on the rebuilt U.S. Cellular Connection Stage June 22, five days before Summerfest’s opening day.
It’s a free concert, with no ticket required, courtesy of U.S. Cellular, with admission granted on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. Entrants will be admitted to the Summerfest grounds beginning at 7 p.m., with the first 1,000 people receiving a Summerfest general-admission ticket.
U.S. Cellular is also giving away VIP passes for the concert, with access to the stage’s U.S. Cellular Backstage Loft (which includes private bathrooms) and upfront viewing. Entry for the sweepstakes will be accepted from June 1 to 15 at U.S. Cellular stores in Wisconsin and northwestern Illinois.
Chicago-based U.S. Cellular is making quite the first impression for the Summerfest stage bearing its name by booking Diplo. His hits include “Lean On,” with his dance hall-infused Major Lazer project; and “Where Are U Now,” part of his Jack U collaboration with Skrillex (with Justin Bieber singing that track). Major Lazer was also the basis of an animated FXX series, while James Van Der Beek played Diplo on Viceland’s “What Would Diplo Do?” comedy series last year.
Diplo’s production credits include M.I.A.’s “Paper Planes;” Sia’s “Elastic Heart;” two tracks on Madonna’s “Rebel Heart” album; and two songs on Beyoncé’s landmark “Lemonade” album. His latest track “Welcome to the Party,” featuring French Montana, Lil Pump and Zhavia Ward, appears on the “Deadpool 2” soundtrack.
The stage itself — part of a 10-year sponsorship extension deal — is likely to make a strong impression as well. Designed by Eppstein Uhen Architects, the 9,000-capacity stage features a 25-foot LED screen, the largest on the grounds.
Summerfest’s 51st edition takes place June 27 to July 1 and July 3 to 8.