Getty Presents Sonic Overdrive: Songs and Stories Through the Streets of Los Angeles

Performances highlight diverse musical responses to the city's built environment

May 23, 2013

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On May 31, the Getty presents Sonic Overdrive, a special one-night performance of songs and stories that explore the eclectic sonic environment of Los Angeles.

Hosted by music critic, scholar, and curator Josh Kun, the evening’s lineup offers a journey through musical geographies from East L.A. to Malibu. The concert complements the exhibition Overdrive: L.A. Constructs the Future, 1940–1990, on view at the Getty Center through July 20, 2013, as well as the city-wide initiative Pacific Standard Time Presents: Modern Architecture in L.A.

The terrain of Los Angeles is overlaid with dynamic musical maps—the city’s unique history, diversity, hybridity, and rapid urban growth have created an incredibly rich soundtrack. Sonic Overdrive’s performers include Chris Hillman (The Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers), Exene Cervenka (X, The Knitters), Underground hip-hop veteran Busdriver, Latin fusion band La Santa Cecilia, soul and gospel legend Merry Clayton, alt-rock favorites Silversun Pickups, and a guest appearance by students from the Silverlake Conservatory of Music.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see some of Los Angeles’s most distinctive voices come together to celebrate music’s role in shaping our sense of L.A.’s urban landscape,” said Kun. “These artists are the musical architects of Los Angeles, and this night offers a special opportunity to build their legacy at the Getty.”

Sonic Overdrive: Songs and Stories through the Streets of Los Angeles Date: Friday, May 31, 2013 Time: 7:00pm Location: Harold M. Williams Auditorium, Getty Center Admission: Tickets $20. Call (310) 440–7300 or visit the event website.

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