Troy Swanson of Tower, Minn.:
1 Prince tribute. I'm sure the city, state and especially his family will try to help make this an epic event. I think the world is grieving and wants to see Minneapolis celebrate one of the greatest musicians of our era. Let's do this right; let's do this big.
2 Festival Palomino. Trampled by Turtles' third annual outdoor show, set for Sept. 17 at Canterbury Park, will feature the Arcs, Jake Bugg, Andrew Bird, TBT and lots of regional acts. Celebrate Minnesota music!
3 Music appreciation. We love to love our favorite musicians, but sometimes we forget that it takes decades to build legends. So opening your mind to newer music will help great music overall. Our kids now control the direction of music, so let's point them to our generation's greats so they can investigate the how and why.
Jon Bream of the Star Tribune:
1 RIP, Guy Clark. The consummate Texas singer-songwriter died Tuesday. Jerry Jeff Walker turned me on to Clark with "L.A. Freeway" and "Desperados Waiting for a Train." Clark mentored Rodney Crowell and Steve Earle, among others. A terrific songwriter, a gentle soul.
2 Harry Connick Jr., State Theatre. He was spontaneous, loose, friendly and charmingly chatty. And musically rewarding, too, especially on his New Orleans material by Allen Toussaint and others.
3 Church of Cash, Bunkers. Frontman Jayder Kalk does a killer Johnny Cash vocal impression — except he's more musical. He's especially effective on tunes from the American Recordings series. Whether doing newer or old songs, this Twin Cities-based Cash tribute is on the money.
