Martinez to bring fresh music to Grant; Community invited to celebrate summers end
With summer winding down, residents have the chance to linger in the season’s warmth with a community concert on Aug. 23 at the Lot on Central Avenue.
Music kicks off at 7 p.m., headlined by local favorite Rascal Martinez, a singer‑songwriter whose soulful, heartland sound resonates deeply throughout Nebraska and beyond. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and settle in for a night of music under the Perkins County summer sky.
Local bakery Butter and Bliss will offer supper while Saved by the Well serves drinks, and organizers are hopeful Kat’s Creamery ice cream truck will also bring a sweet finish to the evening.
About Rascal Martinez
Rascal Martinez, born Matthew Martinez in Sutherland, Neb., earned his playful nickname for youthful antics on his grandfather’s farm. From an early age he embraced music, picking up guitar and drums in his family’s basement and teaching himself through YouTube. He channels an eclectic mix of Americana, folk, indie rock, country, and even touches of Latin melodies to craft a sound that’s simultaneously fresh and familiar.
A pivotal early moment came in 2011 when a Chicago radio DJ, Nate Bell, discovered Martinez’s self-released CD and quickly declared, “From the first song, I was hooked”—praising his ability to channel a spirit with “a fresh yet familiar and resonant style.” Since then Martinez has become a dynamic touring artist, performing across the U.S. in cities big and small and building a devoted fan base.
In 2020, he released “Hard Love”, a gritty, roots-infused album featuring tracks like “San Quentin” with its sun‑records flair, and heartfelt songs such as “Until I Met You”—a romantic fan favorite—showcasing his raspy vocals and storytelling prowess. His earlier record, “Far From Home” (2018), captures live‑performance energy and reflects personal themes of loss and longing.
Nebraska Public Media calls Martinez’s music “a fresh blend of indie rock and Americana, infused with roots, country, and blues,” and notes that his soulful performances often make audiences feel as though they’re hearing their own stories in song. His appeal extends globally, with listeners tuning in from Brazil, the UK, Canada, and Romania.