The 40. Contributed photo.

Newport’s NIMFest Concert Series is set to rock King Park Gazebo this Sunday with headliner “The 40,” a New England R&B band known for their electrifying performances.

The free outdoor concert, scheduled for Aug. 11 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., promises an afternoon of rhythm and blues that will have fans dancing and singing along.

The 40, celebrated for their soulful sound, brings a unique blend of classic R&B, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll to the picturesque waterfront venue. Their performance is expected to be a highlight of the summer concert series.

Opening for The 40 is Mark T. Small, a talented blues musician whose style sets the perfect tone for the main act. Small, winner of the Best Acoustic Blues Album 2014 by Blues Blast Magazine, has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Johnny Winter, James Cotton, and Robert Cray.

Mark T. Small. Contributed photo. Credit: Bobbi Lane/Lee Varis

NIMFest, short for Newport Independent Music Festival, has become a beloved summer tradition in Newport, celebrating local and regional artists in a family-friendly atmosphere.

The event is produced by the New England Music Organization (NEMO) and North End Entertainment, with support from the City of Newport and a generous gift from the Hamilton Family Foundation.

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to fully enjoy the outdoor concert experience. With limited parking available, carpooling is recommended.

The organizers emphasize that alcohol is not permitted in the park, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

While this Sunday’s concert features The 40 and Mark T. Small, the NIMFest Concert Series continues throughout August. Upcoming performances include The Firehouse Band – The NEE Jam Experience on Aug. 18, and Hush Club & Contrafact on Aug. 25.

All concerts are scheduled from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with the possibility of rain dates in September if necessary.

The New England Music Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting musicians and fostering a thriving music community across the region, plays a crucial role in organizing NIMFest.

King Park Gazebo, located at 125 Wellington Ave, offers a stunning backdrop for the performances, with views of Newport Harbor enhancing the concert experience.

For those planning to attend, the organizers suggest arriving early to secure a good spot and enjoy the full lineup of performances.

Music enthusiasts interested in staying updated on the event schedule can visit www.NewEnglandMusic.org and www.NorthEndEntertainment.com for more information.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...

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