Damien Escobar is a world renowned violinist, author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, hailing from Jamaica, Queens, New York. His musical career spans over a decade, and his inspiring journey of making it big, losing it all, fighting to rebuild, and getting a second chance at success is as much apart of his brand identity than being among the top violinist in the world.

The now NAACP Image Award nominee and Billboards chart topping artist, was once humbled by homelessness after calling it quits from his famed group, "Nuttin but Stringz." The group, comprised of Damien and his brother, Tourie-- known in NYC for playing their violins on the subway; gained global recognition when they appeared as contestants on "America's Got Talent." The competition helped to catapult the duo into stardom and they quickly experienced all the highs of being the most sought after musicians of their time. However, that glory was short-lived and the fall from grace was a hard hit, to say the very least; as the group disbanded and a bruised Damien made the decision to retire his violin. What came next was a struggle-- not only with his identity, and depression, but with finding success in other non-creative endeavors.

Join the City of Portage for their Summer Entertainment Series at Overlander Bandshell. The Thursday evening concert series will feature various genres of music that will be fun for all ages. Concessions will be available for purchase.  Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. and are free, except Damien Escobar ($15 general admission).  Parking for all shows will be available at City Hall, Portage District Library, and Portage Senior Center.  Portage Summer Entertainment Series is brought to you by the Portage Parks and Recreation Department and is sponsored by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo and the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation.  Celebration Cinema is also a sponsor for the Glenn Miller Orchestra.  For more information on the Portage Summer Entertainment Series, visit www.portagemi.gov.