San Francisco’s Embarcadero Plaza is set to pulse with electronic music on May 9, as organizers revealed the lineup for a free concert celebrating the 30th anniversary of local label Om Records. The event, a key part of the city’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its downtown core, will feature a lineup of established DJs and is expected to draw significant crowds.
The concert represents a continued push by city leaders to attract residents and tourists back to the downtown area through large-scale, free public events. Following the success of last year’s “Summer of Music” series in Golden Gate Park, officials see these gatherings as vital to the city’s economic and cultural recovery. The free concert series aims to activate public spaces and support local artists, fostering a sense of community and momentum.
Headlining the event will be DJs Mark Farina, known for his eclectic house sets, and a back-to-back performance by Colette and DJ Heather, both prominent figures in the electronic music scene. The lineup similarly includes Shiny Objects and J Boogie, further solidifying the concert’s focus on the sounds that have defined San Francisco’s dance music landscape. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance, though admission remains free.
Om Records: A San Francisco Institution
Founded in 1995, Om Records has become synonymous with the city’s vibrant house and electronic music culture. According to the label, it has released over 800 recordings, nurturing a diverse roster of artists and shaping the sound of a generation. The San Francisco Chronicle detailed the label’s history, highlighting its role in fostering a unique musical identity within the city.
The 30th-anniversary celebration coincides with the release of “Om Records — 30 Years,” a compilation album featuring a range of artists, including Samantha James, Groove Armada, and Kaskade. This release serves as both a retrospective of the label’s accomplishments and a statement of its continued relevance in the ever-evolving electronic music world.
Beyond the Plaza: An After-Party and City-Wide Initiative
For those seeking to continue the celebration into the night, a ticketed after-party is planned at The Great Northern in the South of Market neighborhood. The after-party lineup will feature Derrick Carter, alongside Mark Farina, and additional artists associated with Om Records. Tickets for the after-party are available for purchase separately.
The concert at Embarcadero Plaza is being produced by Another Planet Entertainment, the company behind the popular Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival, in partnership with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. This collaboration brings significant event production expertise to the free concert, ensuring a high-quality experience for attendees. Mayor Daniel Lurie emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “As Om Records celebrates 30 years, this free show at Embarcadero Plaza will bring people together, supports our artists, and activates our public spaces — continuing the energy and momentum of our city’s comeback.”
The SF Free Concerts Series and Downtown Revitalization
The Om Records concert is part of the larger “SF Free Concerts” series, an initiative designed to draw crowds back to San Francisco’s downtown area. The series has seen success in recent years, with events attracting large audiences and generating economic activity for local businesses. The city is hoping that these free concerts will contribute to a sustained recovery for the downtown core, which has faced challenges in recent years.
The push to revitalize downtown isn’t limited to music events. City officials are also exploring other strategies, including streamlining permitting processes for businesses and investing in public infrastructure improvements. The goal is to create a more welcoming and vibrant environment that attracts both residents and visitors.
The event is a significant moment for both Om Records and the city of San Francisco, representing a celebration of local culture and a commitment to the city’s future. As the concert approaches, organizers are focused on ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Further details, including information about accessibility and transportation, can be found on the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department website.
The next step in the celebration will be the release of the “Om Records — 30 Years” compilation album on May 3rd, followed by the concert itself on May 9th. Attendees are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #OmRecords30.
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