The North Mississippi Allstars are among the dozens of musicians, speakers and artists scheduled to play free concerts in New York City’s Central Park this summer. Part of the Summer Stage concert series, NMA will perform on July 17 along with special guests Charlie Musselwhite and Amos Lee. Burning Spear, Thomas Mapfumo & The Blacks Unlimited, Papo Lucca y La Sonora Poncena, Nas and the Newport Jazz All-stars will also offer free performances throughout the warm weather months.

Summer Stage kickstarted its summer series Wednesday night with a benefit performance by New York natives the Strokes. Lucinda Williams, Jack Johnson and the triple bill of Ben Folds, Rufus Wainwright and Guster will also stage benefit concerts at Summer Stage. Admission is required.