The State Fair of Texas has to tap many musical acts in its attempts to satisfy the variety of people who visit. It's always a good idea to plan your visit to your musical tastes, though, because there's so much to hear. (And see and do.)
Here are five acts to see.
Morris Day and The Time
Morris Day, the always dapper lead singer of The Time, knows how to play to a crowd. And for one. The band, pulled together and, if you believe the rumors, ruled by the late legendary Prince, has a catalog of songs designed to make audiences move, including "Jungle Love" and "The Bird." (And one newer one that might just make you cry: "Over That Rainbow" is a clear dedication to Day's good friend and collaborator.) At the 2017 Grammys, the group performed a tribute to His Purple Highness with Bruno Mars, an obvious acolyte of both men. If you like Mars, then you'll love the prototype. Sept. 29 at 8:30 p.m.
Michael Salgado
The San Antonio resident has a couple of Latin Grammy Awards to his name, for Tejano album (2016) and Norteno album (2007). He also has three other Latin Grammy nominations and one Grammy nomination. Add to that many, many, many adoring fans and you have the makings of a good throwback live show. Salgado had a stroke in February but returned to the stage with his traditional sound intact. Sept. 30 at 5:30 p.m.
Ludacris
Christopher Bridges may be more known for his role in the Fast and the Furious franchise these days. But there was a time when you couldn't listen to
without hearing
cry of his own nickname, "Luuuuu-dah!" His aggressive rap style is showcased on hits such as "Move [Expletive]," "Rollout (My Business)" and several collabs with a long list of hip-hop luminaries. His lyrics can be bawdy -- with a wink -- but his
and beats are top-notch. This former Atlanta DJ will keep folks moving and grooving with classics like "My Chick Bad," "Southern Hospitality," "Welcome to Atlanta," and "Splash Waterfalls." Oct. 13 at 8:30 p.m.
A Night of Inspiration and Gospel
Gospel superstar (and Cedar Hill resident) Fred Hammond is the headliner for what promises to be a rousing night of praise. Stellar Award winners Crystal Aikin and Isabel Davis will also be on the bill. And "Heaven 97" KHVN-AM (970) is currently holding a contest to find a local singer to share the stage. These are some powerful singers that are ready to take any stage. Oct. 11 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.
Hunter Hayes
The country singer's fans are in love with his songs and his baby face. There will be a lot of singing along because he specializes in catchy tunes such as "Yesterday's Song" and "One Shot." And there will be hands in the air, because of heartfelt songs such as "Dear God." He may look like he's tailor-made for a boy band, but he stands on his own just fine. Oct. 14 at 8:30 p.m.
And a bonus ...
: Wherever this band shows up, it's a celebration of life. Clearly devoted to the material and the artist, this tribute band specializes in the music of Selena Quintanilla, who was killed at the age of 23. This band is less about the vocals and more about the feeling. Get ready to sing along. Oct. 19 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.
