Rapid City, S.D. – If you’re looking for a high-energy way to celebrate Independence Day week, Summer Nights has exactly what you’re looking for.
Fargo-based country-rock powerhouse 32 Below returns to the Coca-Cola Stage in downtown Rapid City on Thursday, bringing more than 20 years of experience, blistering guitar riffs and a live show that’s built to keep crowds dancing from the first note to the last encore.
For a band that’s played across the United States and internationally, Rapid City continues to stand out as one of their favorite places to perform.
“The energy from a city to just show up and have the energy, positivity and an overall good time is unprecedented,” the band shared. “Not once have we had an uncomfortable moment on stage in Rapid City.”
Those are strong words from a group that has played everything from NFL halftime shows to concerts across the country.
Rock at the Core
While 32 Below is often described as a country-rock band, they aren’t afraid to admit they lean heavily toward the rock side of that equation.
“We all cut our teeth in rock bands,” they explained. “Naturally we lean into our strong suits. Anything from groovy rock classics to heavy riffing country.”
That combination creates a show that appeals to nearly everyone in the audience.
Whether you’re a line dancer, country fan, classic rock lover, headbanger or someone who simply appreciates great musicianship, 32 Below blends original music with crowd-favorite covers to keep the party going all night.
Two Decades of Brotherhood
After performing together for more than two decades, many bands would struggle to keep things fresh. For 32 Below, the formula is surprisingly simple.
“Be humble, be kind, respect each other’s professional and personal space,” they said. “Don’t be an A$$. Always have fun. Life is too short to be too serious. Buy a kazoo. Use it appropriately.”
That sense of humor and genuine friendship, has helped the band continue evolving while staying true to what made audiences fall in love with them in the first place.
Every Crowd Writes a Different Show
No two 32 Below performances are exactly alike.
The band comes prepared, but they’re always watching the audience and adjusting on the fly.
“We plan things out, and then things change. We adapt and keep on having fun,” they said. “We have fun when you have fun, so that more or less guides the night’s musical adventure. We light the fuse and enjoy the fireworks as they unfold.”
It’s an approach that has earned them a reputation for unforgettable live performances throughout the Midwest.
A Career Built on Music
When asked what moments have made them realize they’ve built something special, the answers weren’t necessarily about awards or accolades.
For the band, success has meant making a living with their music, traveling the country, and even internationally, performing for fans, playing NFL halftime shows, discovering great food, and meeting incredible people along the way.
“Paying bills with my guitar,” one member said. “Getting to travel and see the U.S. and other countries we’ve had opportunities to perform in… Meeting amazing musicians, fans, behind-the-scenes workers, people.”
Ready to Rock Downtown Rapid City
So what can fans expect when 32 Below takes the stage Thursday night?
“Electrifying guitar riffs, smashing drums, screaming vocals, thundering bass and songs from yesterday, today and tomorrow,” the band promised.
They also hinted at free T-shirts and hats flying into the crowd, while offering one piece of advice for anyone planning to stand in front of the stage:
“Wear your hearing protection if you’re up front.”
More importantly, they want everyone to leave with memories, not regrets.
“Don’t expect to be disappointed that you chose not to stay at home on the couch and instead decided to kick off America’s 250th Birthday in downtown Rapid City with 32 Below.”
If their previous Summer Nights appearances are any indication, downtown Rapid City is in for another unforgettable evening of live music, great energy and one giant community celebration.
Summer Nights would like to remind you that although we can only dance in the street one night out of the week, you can always visit all the great downtown shops, boutiques, restaurants and so much more 7 days a week!
