Summer of Music returns to San Francisco after successful first year

Summer of Music returns this weekend in an expanded format with concerts on Saturday and Sunday afternoons across six neighborhoods.

Why it matters: The citywide live music series launched last year as part of an effort to boost economic activity and spotlight local artists, turning Bay Area storefronts into mini-music venues that hosted free concerts every week.

Driving the news: Over 175 local Bay Area musicians and 75 business owners have signed up to participate this summer, including Twango SF, Oceanography, Yaadi Erica and more.

• Performances will take place in the Mission, Castro, Haight, Inner Sunset, Marina and North Beach.

The inaugural Summer of Music focused on championing local creatives, and it appears to have paid off, according to new figures from the organizations behind the program.

By the numbers: Last year, over 750 concerts were held from June through August, featuring 190 musical acts, 360 individual artists and 80 participating businesses, the nonprofit Civic Joy Fund and music promoter Noise Pop said this week.

• Each musical act performed five times on average throughout the series.
• Participating businesses saw a 12%-33% increase in sales and also reported an increase in foot traffic across the board.
• Local musicians received more than $193,000 as part of the program, which is funded by corporate sponsors and individual donors.

What they're saying: "So much of San Francisco's vibrance stems from its artists - filling our streets with local musicians is a celebration of what makes this city great, and we're excited to double down for a second year," Caleb Hilladakis, deputy director of the Civic Joy Fund, said in a press release.

Head over to Summer of Music's website to check out the full line-up and performance locations.

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