Grady Nichols celebrates 30 years performing at Utica Square's Summer's 5th Night

Tulsa-based saxophonist Grady Nichols is marking a milestone this week: 30 consecutive years performing at Summer's Fifth Night, the popular outdoor concert series at Utica Square.

Nichols first moved to Tulsa from Arkansas in 1994 and landed the recurring gig shortly after performing at the Greenwood Jazz Festival. John Terry of SRO Productions, who has coordinated the series for years, approached Nichols about playing more shows after seeing that early performance.

“I was at Utica in ’95, and then my first record actually came out in ’96, which was a live performance from Utica Square,” Nichols said.

A Community Concert Experience

Summer's Fifth Night is known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees can bring lawn chairs or blankets, enjoy local food, and listen to live music in an open-air setting.

This year, Nichols' show has been moved to a larger grassy area just west of Williams-Sonoma, near the former Miss Jackson’s building.

The free concert begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 31.

Looking Ahead With New Music

Nichols recently released a new EP titled Concrete Jungle, which includes five original songs and an accompanying music video. The video draws inspiration from classic '80s television, with nods to Miami Vice and Magnum P.I., and features Danny Boy O'Connor with direction from Kelly Kerr.

“I felt like, you know, why not tell a story with your song?” Nichols said of the video, which he describes as a visual homage to the moody, stylish dramas of that era.

Holiday Show Returns in December

Nichols also announced the return of his annual Christmas concert, scheduled for December 9 at the Mabee Center. The show will feature longtime collaborators, including LeAnne Taylor and Travis Meyer, and will benefit Lisa Bain Ministries. The event promises a mix of music, humor, and holiday spirit.

“It’s a quirky kind of variety show. It’s not real serious — but why does everything have to be?” Nichols said.

Tickets for the Christmas show are on sale now.