St. John's Annual Great Lawn Summer Concert to Feature the American Soul Band

St. John’s University will celebrate 26 years of music under the stars when the Queens, NY, campus hosts the annual Great Lawn Summer Concert on Tuesday, June 30, from 7 to 9 p.m.

The 26th annual concert features the American Soul Band, led by St. John’s alumna Deanna Carroll, performing timeless hits from the Motown era. The high-energy program—called “The Great American Soul Book”—features legendary R&B sounds and classic soul, creating an unforgettable musical experience for guests of all ages.

“I am thrilled to perform at my alma mater,” Ms. Carroll said. “Fans can expect a high-energy performance with some great music from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. Wherever we perform, the audience always gets involved.” 

The concert supports Hearts on Fire: The Campaign for St. John’s, a bold initiative to strengthen the University through student scholarships, academic excellence, and capital improvements.

Guests should enter Gate 1 at Utopia Parkway and Kildare Road before the 7 p.m. start and bring chairs and blankets. The concert will move indoors to The Little Theatre in the event of inclement weather.

St. John’s alumni are invited to attend a preconcert barbecue, featuring summer food, wine, and beer. Tickets for the alumni barbecue are priced at $30 per person and are free for St. John’s Loughlin and McCallen Society members. Preregistration is required for the alumni barbecue.

“St. John’s Great Lawn Summer Concert has long been a signature event that brings together alumni, families, friends, and neighbors for an evening of music and community,” said Paul Lazauskas ’01CCPS, ’08M.B.A., Associate Director, Office of Alumni Relations. “As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, we are proud to welcome the American Soul Band for an unforgettable evening celebrating the music and artists who have shaped America’s cultural heritage.” 

“This cherished tradition strengthens the bonds within the St. John’s community while supporting the University’s Hearts on Fire campaign and its mission to transform the student experience for generations to come,” Mr. Lazauskas added.

The American Soul Band delivers a journey through the decades of Motown, R&B, and other iconic music that inspired generations through its show "The Great American Soul Book." Ms. Carroll, who for years toured as Diana Ross in Lady Supreme, is joined by six talented background singers and six musicians whose performances delight audiences with the music of Aretha Franklin, Boyz II Men, Gladys Knight and the Pips, James Brown, The Supremes, The Temptations, and more. Rooted in Motown and classic R&B, the band continues the journey forward with tributes to the newest generations of soulful superstars.