Whoa, Man! 7-piece band celebrating iconic women of rock headlines Friday night’s Mayor’s Summer of Music

The Mayor's Summer of Music concert series continues Friday night in River Park Square with a band that proves rock and roll isn't just a man's world. Whoa, Man! — a seven-piece professional band celebrating the iconic women of rock across six decades — takes the Senter Stage Friday night with four alternating female lead singers ready to bring the house down.

The story of Whoa, Man! is as inspiring as the music they play. The idea was born in 2015 when four women got together and realized they were so busy being entrepreneurs, artists, students, mothers, community leaders, and volunteers that they had forgotten how good it felt to get together and play some rock and roll. After some magical basement practice sessions, the music was happening — but life had other plans. Some members moved on to chase other dreams, and the original group went their separate ways, heartbroken to say goodbye to the idea of taking the stage together as strong women comrades united by music.

But rock and roll always finds a way. In 2019, two of the original members paired up again after both suffered what they described as a "nasty music breakup" in a different group. They decided it was time to reignite some music-induced positivity and empowerment. They gathered a couple more talented women, invited a few fellas along for the musical endeavor, and dubbed themselves "Whoa, Man!" — exclamation point included.

Little did they know how quickly the band would gain momentum. The shows grew, and so did the number of fans. Today, Whoa, Man! covers some of the most powerful women in rock history, including Pat Benatar, Heart, Stevie Nicks, Joan Jett, and Fleetwood Mac — delivering a night of music that spans six decades of female rock royalty.

Come hungry, because a variety of food trucks will be on site serving up great food options starting at 5:30 p.m. Whether you're looking for a full dinner or just a snack, there will be something tasty to choose from.

Grab your lawn chair, pack a cooler with your favorite beverages, and head to River Park Square tonight. The music of Whoa, Man! fills the air from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. — and as always, the concert is absolutely free.