Classic Groove draws music lovers to the Common

Children on scooters, couples and longtime regulars filled Waltham Common last Tuesday evening for the latest installment of the city’s outdoor concert series, drawing a cross-section of the community to the gazebo lawn.

Classic Groove headlined the show, and its rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” drew a strong response from the audience.

“They don’t make music like that anymore,” said one couple in their 30s, who added they had attended previous concerts in the series and been impressed by the quality of the performers.

For a young family whose children arrived on scooters, the night offered a low-cost outing. “A fun night out for all of us,” a parent said.

The audience included young and old. Several regulars danced on the patio in front of the gazebo while others settled onto the grass with lawn chairs and blankets under the Common’s old shade trees, the sounds and lights of the city in the background.

Refreshments were available, including popcorn, pizza, hot dogs, cookies and soft drinks.

The concert series continues with the Black Velvet Band this Tuesday, July 28, at 6:30 p.m. on the Waltham Common.