Summerfest officials are excited to announce some of the stage headlining acts that will take place this year. Dates, times and stage locations for the following acts have yet to be determined, however these artists are officially signed to perform at Summerfest 2008: 311, Paolo Nutini, Trace Adkins, Jack’s Mannequin, Miranda Lambert, Matisyahu, O.A.R., Keller Williams, Creedence Clearwater Revisited, The Crystal Method (DJ set), Plain White T’s, The Roots, Gomez, Willie Colon and Thievery Corporation, Jakob Dylan & the Gold Mountain Rebels, Mickey Hart and Rodrigo y Gabriela.
311 is a five-piece modern alternative band from Omaha who are celebrating their 18th year since their inception and have enjoyed immense commercial success. Paolo Nutini is a 20-year-old singer/songwriter from Scotland whose singles include “Jenny Don’t Be Hasty” and “New Shoes.” Country star Trace Adkins’ newest single “You’re Gonna Miss This” demonstrates his continued strength as a major force in contemporary country. Jack’s Mannequin is the solo project of Andrew McMahon, the vocalist, pianist and songwriter of the band Something Corporate. Country singer, guitarist and songwriter Miranda Lambert released her second album Crazy Ex-Girlfriend in 2007. Matisyahu’s reggae and hip-hop influences have helped him establish a unique sound of his own. O.A.R. is a rock jam band formed in Ohio whose single “That Was a Crazy Game of Poker” is a staple on college campuses across the country.
Singer, songwriter and guitarist Keller Williams is literally a one-man jam band whose live shows always prove to be upbeat and eccentric. Creedence Clearwater Revisited was launched by The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rhythm section from the legendary group Creedence Clearwater Revival. The Crystal Method (DJ set) is a dance-based electronic duo with a definite rock band feel best known for their hit “Busy Child.” Plain White T’s are a pop rock band from Illinois whose smash single “Hey There Delilah” was nominated for a 2008 Grammy. The Roots are a Grammy-Award winning hip hop band from Philadelphia known for their jazzy sound and live instrumentation. The English indie rock band Gomez’s album How We Operate was hailed as “The Best Rock Album of the Year” by The Wall Street Journal. Puerto Rican musician Willie Colon is a trombonist, singer and salsa music icon. Thievery Corporation is a Washington, D.C.-based recording artist and DJ duo. Jakob Dylan & the Gold Mountain Rebels are touring this summer in support of Dylan’s debut solo album, Seeing Things. Mickey Hart is best known for his nearly three decades as one of two drummers of the Grateful Dead. Rodrigo y Gabriela are a musical duo who specialize in playing rhythmic and classical guitars.