CBS2 Chicago: John Mellencamp Performs Monday For Free at Daley Plaza

John Mellencamp Performs Monday At Daley Plaza

Bill Zwecker CHICAGO (CBS)

John Mellencamp is performing next Monday in Chicago at a free live performance downtown. CBS 2's Entertainment Reporter Bill Zwecker tells us how and where we can see him.

Back in 2000 when Mellencamp gave another free concert in Daley Plaza, thousands showed up.

He's pleased that the Monday performance is also free.

"It's kind of an opportunity to let people come," Mellencamp said. "Music is free anyway now, you know, we don't really sell records anymore."

The concert will take place in Daley Plaza on Monday and will air exclusively on CBS. Things will get started around 6 a.m., but you'd better get there early, more like 5 a.m.

It's early, but Mellencamp seems to be looking forward to it. He spoke with our Boston station earlier this week when he was there to announce the next Farm Aid concert in September.

"It's good for me to be able to get out and keep the songs alive by playing them in front of people," Mellencamp said.

John Mellencamp has been a voice for the American heartland for more than 25 years.

His music has become so symbolic that John McCain tried to use it in his campaign until Mellencamp reminded him that he's an ardent democrat. He performed at rallies for both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

The Indiana native says he has many special memories of Chicago.

"I've been playing in Chicago since I was a teenager," Mellencamp said. "I've always enjoyed the audiences and the participation, and the support."
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