Point Richmond’s free summer concert series opens with Chris James & the Showdowns

The Point Richmond Music Committee kicked off its 2025 free summer concert series Friday evening with a double bill featuring Chris James & the Showdowns and Maurice Tani.

Chris James & the Showdowns opened the evening at 5:30 p.m. with their blend of Southern Rock, Americana, Country and Blues. The San Francisco Bay Area group, led by singer-songwriter Chris James, performed original compositions alongside covers reimagined in their signature style that channels influences from Tom Petty, The Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Maurice Tani followed at 6:45 p.m., delivering his brand of Americana music to the outdoor venue. The San Francisco-based singer-songwriter, who has released 10 albums, including his latest "All In!" on the Little Village label, showcased his "wry-to-romantic" songwriting style and agile guitar work that has made him a fixture on the West Coast Americana scene for more than two decades.

The all-volunteer Point Richmond Music Committee, now in its 24th year, organizes the free summer series as part of its mission to celebrate diversity and promote community through music. The concerts serve as a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Three more Friday evening concerts remain in the 2025 series: July 11 will feature Mbira dzaSoko, a cultural ensemble honoring Zimbabwean musical traditions, performing at 5:30 p.m., followed by EXTRA LARGE at 6:45 p.m. The Santa Cruz County-based six-piece band, voted Best Local Band nine times running, blends funk, Latin, reggae, and California rock.

The August 8 show will showcase soul and funk with Burrows and Dilbeck at 5:30 p.m. and Big Blu Soul Revue at 6:45 p.m. Big Blu Soul Revue, formed in 2014, performs music influenced by legends including Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye.

The series concludes September 12 with pop band The Rubinoos at 5:30 p.m. and indie rock group The Lemonhammer at 6:45 p.m.

The concerts are funded through donations from local businesses and volunteers. All performances are free and open to the public.

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