Beats on Bates

Beats on Bates is Downtown Kalamazoo’s signature free summer music series, held every Wednesday evening from June through September in the vibrant, mural-lined Bates Alley. Presented by the Downtown Economic Growth Authority (DEGA) and curated by event producer Kim Guess, the series brings together local favorites and regional touring acts across genres—creating an accessible, high-energy celebration of community, culture, and live music in the heart of the city.

Since its inception, Beats on Bates has become a cornerstone of Kalamazoo’s cultural scene and economic vitality, regularly drawing hundreds of attendees and boosting adjacent business sales by up to 25% on event nights. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse talent lineup, and strong community partnerships, the series offers more than just music—it’s a weekly gathering that connects people, supports small businesses, and enlivens the downtown experience for all.

6/4 Out of Favor Boys (blues & funk) & DJ Mel V

6/11 Kalamazoo Kittens (Pride Fest) & DJ Conscious

6/18 Kandace DC Lavender & Friends ft. DJ Boogie (Hip Hop & RnB)

6/25 Zion Lion (Reggae) & DJ Conscious

7/2 Tony Fields & Doug Decker (Top 40 hits) w/DJ No Limit

7/9 Par-llo Connection (Funk, Motown) & The Most Incredible DJ Chuck

7/16 BlueBack & DJ Ron E Roc

7/23 The Chris Canas Band (Rock N Soul) w/ DJ Mel V

7/30 Sophia McIntosh & The Sages (Soft Rock) w/ DJ Ron E Roc

8/6 SaxFifth Music w/ DJ Conscious

8/13 Duke & The Loose Cannons (Blues, Motown) w/ DJ No Limit

8/20 Work In Progress (RnB & Funk) w/ DJ Playhouse

8/27 The Skeletones (Back to school Bash) w/ Sic Musiq

9/3 Da’Veonce And DaFunk Gang w/ DJ No Limit

9/10 Tony Fields & Doug Decker (top 40) w/DJ Mel V

9/17 MexiCuba (Latin Heritage Celebration) w/ DJ Ivan

9/24 Aintee-Kim & Uneek Soul (Funk/Soul Dance party) w/ The Most Incredible DJ Chuck