Ron Ivory
DooWoop Band

Warm weather brings live music to the north and south greens of Stapleton, and this summer features an eclectic and exciting lineup of talent. From soul, R&B, jazz and blues to rock, classical and funk, free concerts offer listening and dancing for all in the Stapleton and NE Denver neighborhoods.

Seating for all shows is first-come, first-served and the concerts are all free and open to the public. People may bring their own chairs, blankets, food and drink, though some food trucks (mostly sweets) are available. Bringing dogs is discouraged but not prohibited.

June 16: The Hazel Miller Band
On June 16, a longtime favorite, Hazel Miller, comes to Conservatory Green in North Stapleton.
Miller has been called a force of nature. Her distinctive voice conjures raw soul and passion. Though she started her career in Louisville, Ky., the city of Denver named Hazel Miller as one of 150 people who make Denver a better place to live. She has received awards including Most Outstanding Performer at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Hazel Miller

Miller has regularly performed with Big Head Todd and the Monsters and has also sung on Boulder’s eTown radio show. She has performed at major jazz and music festivals throughout Colorado and opened for artists as diverse as Peter, Paul and Mary, John Mayall, Charlie Musselwhite, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Nancy Griffith, Bob Weir, Buddy Guy, Lou Rawls, Rickie Lee Jones, Spyro Gyro and many others. She also appeared in The Vagina Monologues in Boulder and Denver, receiving an award for Best Local Star in a Theatrical Production.

Concert attendees are sure to appreciate Hazel’s soulful and well-acclaimed voice. In this exclusive interview, Miller shares some of her history, thoughts and what listeners can expect to hear at the show.

How did you get started in music?
I started many years ago in Louisville, Ky., while in high school. It is my first and only choice for a career.
What brought you to Denver and how long have you been in Colorado?
I came west to change my life. I’ve been living and singing in Denver for 32 years.
Do you play any instruments in addition to being a vocalist?
No, unfortunately my talents do not extend to playing music. I once took adult piano lessons at Bellarmine College in Louisville. They returned my fee.
Do you think music is something that should be taught in school?
Yes, of course, music is absolutely necessary to every young mind and heart. I vote for taxes to support the arts in school. I participate in fundraisers for private programs that support music and the music business for young men and women.
What have been a few of your favorite moments playing music in Colorado?
Last Saturday night my band lit up the stage at Herman’s Hideaway. My first time on stage at Red Rocks with Big Head Todd was a biggie for my nerves and my confidence. My first Winter Park Jazz Festival was exhilarating and frightening.
Do you enjoy performing in the Stapleton area?
Yes, indeed. I have played The Green in Stapleton many times. The audiences are always friendly and open to our music. I played the MoJaBlu Fest once before, last year. We had a ball!
What can fans expect to hear when you perform this summer?
We’ll bring our A game!Tell the audience to be prepared to listen, dance, sing and party!

Thursday Concerts at Conservatory Green in North Stapleton
The weekly MoJaBlu series (Motown, jazz and blues) features bands sponsored by the downtown Denver jazz club Jazz at Jack’s. The shows are held every Thursday evening at Conservatory Green in North Stapleton between 6:30 and 8:30pm at 49th Place and Valentia St. This summer’s series brings in Denver favorites including:
June 9 –
Tunisia (current hits, classic rock, disco, hip-hop)
June 16 – Hazel Miller Band (jazz, blues and Top 40)
June 23 –
Biff Gore Band (blues and R&B)
June 30 – Ron Ivory DooWop Band (R&B, funk, Motown)
July 7 – Hot Lunch Band (R&B, funk, soul)
July 14 – Dotsero (contemporary jazz)
July 28 – SuCh (contemporary soul)
Aug. 4 – The Samples (Reggae-inflected rock)

Saturday Concerts on The Green
at the 29th Ave. Town Center
Concerts start at 7pm at Founders Green, 29th Ave. at Roslyn. This summer’s Founders Green concerts include:
June 18 – Soul School (oldies, Motown, R&B)
July 2 – Forever Dangerous (Michael Jackson tribute)
July 16 – Taylor Scott (soul- and blues-based singer-songwriter. During the Stapleton beer festival)
July 16 – Chris Daniels & The Kings (roots rock, blues and funk. During the Stapleton beer festival)
Aug. 6 – Aurora Symphony (Classical)
Sept. 3 – Funkiphino (funk and R&B)