The Cities 97 Sampler Release Party filled the Myth in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The Sampler is a series of albums containing “live in studio” recordings from Studio C located at the radio station Cities 97. Occasionally there is a live track which is recorded from a local concert in the Twin Cities. It has been released annually since 1989, and new volumes appear in November at local Target stores just in time for the Christmas season, with the proceeds benefiting various charitable organizations such as the Children’s Hospital Minnesota. The CD usually generates over $500,000 every year for Minnesota charities. In the last several years, the recordings have sold quickly, disappearing within minutes in many stores. The Sampler cd has been released every year since 1989. This years Release Party featured live performances by O.A.R., We The Kings, Wrabel, Cobi, Hailey Knox and special guest Gavin DeGraw.
The Sampler party featured six amazing bands all playing 3-5 song sets. Youtube sensation Hailey Knox started the show off. She came out with her guitar and sang her heart out. Hailey played a quick 20 min set. Cobi was up next and he also played a 20 min set. Cobi amazed the fans with lyrical talent. Then came Los Angeles based Wrabel giving a very intimate and personal performance on his keyboard. Stephen Wrabel at one point was singing such a heartfelt songs, tears filled his eyes. We The Kings came out next and rocked the crowd for their 30 min set. Travis Clark entertained fans with his stories and vocals.
Richard On and Marc Roberge of O.A.R. headlined the Release Party. The had their acoustic guitars in hand and just played an amazing acoustic set. The crowd was blown away by a simple set but very powerful. They played top hits like “I Go Through”,”Shattered (Turn the Car Around)” and closed their set with monster hit “Peace”. Richard and Marc have such incredible talent. The Cities 97 Sampler Release party was a huge success.
