We all have summer traditions. Whether it is going on trips, camping, fishing, amusement parks or just relaxing. I do these things each year, however, earlier today I was driving and listening to the radio. Uncle Kracker came on and it took me back. Not sure if you remember or not but there was a radio station out here in the Valley called “B93.1”. It was a station that played alternative rock/pop and it was awesome! Each year they hosted a summer concert series called “Summerfest”. Oh man, did I look forward to it each summer.
The event ran from the late ‘90s to about 2005. Chris Ricci was the promoter and between him and the station, they delivered. As a teenager, I was super excited about it. Artists that appeared included Train, Uncle Kracker, Five For Fighting, Everclear, House of Pain, Vertical Horizon, Liz Phair, Gavin DeGraw and many more.
Venues that hosted the event were The Fruit Yard, California State University Stanislaus (Turlock) and John Thurman Field. Perfect places for outdoor summer concerts! Each year the station would give out tickets on the radio. I am proud to say that I won my fair share. The excitement of winning tickets on the phone is a nostalgic reflection. My brother and I would attend each year. When we could not win our tickets, we bought them before it sold out, and trust me it sold out. With music from big names and even new up and coming artists. One year a young Avril Lavigne was scheduled to appear. She was forced to cancel because she made an appearance on Jay Leno that night. Although she did not show up, they replaced her with Michelle Branch. Other artists on the rise that appeared were Nine Days; known for their hit “Absolutely (Story of a Girl); Marcy Playground “Sex and Candy” and Matt Nathanson “Come On Get Higher”. Summerfest also would do a great job with bringing in older bands at the time too. One that always stood out to me was an 80’s hairband known as “Danger Kitty”. They got a huge ovation by the crowd and I really could not remember much about their music but I can picture their attire for sure. It was neon, lots of neon. Hot pink, green and teal.
Each year they also had a second stage that featured local artists. My favorite local band was a band out of Tracy called UVR. They got over with the crowd so well that the station picked up their music and began playing their music on the radio on a regular basis. I really do believe that Summerfest helped pave the way for MAMA (Modesto Area Music Awards).
It’s hard to believe that it has been 20 years or so since the summer series ended. I can still remember the atmosphere, the booths, the food, drinks, and music. Back then it was peaceful; no drunks, no fighting, no violence. Just people enjoying great music, the sun, great company. I miss those days.
Dennis D. Cruz is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News and The Escalon Times. He may be reached at drcruz@oakdaleleader.com or by calling 209-847-3021.
