OMAHA PERFORMING ARTS

The final free concert of the Music at Miller Park summer concert series is happening on Saturday, Sept. 4, and it is one you will not want to miss! Big Wade and Black Swan Theory are primed and ready to close out the concert series in true, big band fashion.  

Frontman Lewade “Big Wade” Milliner is a celebrated musician widely recognized as one of the pioneers of Nebraska's soul music scene. His impressive resume spans 15+ years and includes national tours, the release of several successful independent albums, industry recognition for his original production and musical sets with greats such as Al Green, Jagged Edge, Lyfe Jennings and many more. 

Q: Who inspired you to become a musician? 

A: My mother inspired me to become a musician. My grandfather was a pastor, and my mother was the choir director so, from an early age, I was surrounded by music. I started out playing the drums, then moved to other instruments and singing. When I was in middle school, Omaha Northwest High School’s Instrumental Music Director, Bill Lovgren, recruited me to go to Northwest. Mr. Lovgren saved my life. He showed me a better path and taught me music scholarships were not only possible but achievable.  

Q: How would you describe your music and sound? 

A: Our style is a combination of soul and funk. We have evolved over the years and have a more unique, original sound. We express our individuality through our music.  

Q: What is most exciting to you about playing Music at Miller Park?  

A: We are honored to be invited to play in such a historic area of town and we are most looking forward to the crowd interaction. It will be such a fun time, and we’ve got some surprises in store for our audience. Be ready for some big band, live music! 

Q: What projects do you have in the works? 

A: We are working on an album right now and have a new music video out. We are playing at a few venues over the summer, including the Omaha Homecoming Dance at The Strut Live Music Venue.  

We hope you can make it out to see the exciting performance by Big Wade and Black Swan Theory on Saturday, Sept. 4 at 7 p.m.! Music at Miller Park is free, thanks to Omaha Performing Arts and other generous community partners. No ticket needed—just pack a snack and head to the park! Find more details at o-pa.org/on-stage/music-at-miller-park.