Live music is synonymous with Memphis, and there's only one place where live music under the stars is always free - at Overton Park's Levitt Shell. With more than 50 free concerts annually, plus a host of other performing arts events, the shell is a community gathering spot, reflection of the city, and pulses with a uniquely Memphis beat.

Emmylou Harris in concert. — Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Of course, you can't have a free venue without an expense - and that's not an oxymoronic statement. The reason the Levitt Shell can offer free concerts is because there's a very active community group that keeps it going...and a great concert coming up to help support the free concert concept.

Emmylou Harris, the legendary country singer who somehow only gets prettier with age, performs on September 22 in a concert to benefit the Shell's mission to be a free performing arts venue for the city. Harris will be joined by The Memphis Dawls, a locally-loved folk group whose three members just happen to consider Harris as one of their biggest influences.

The 'Stars in the Park' event includes a few special perks for VIPs, who will enjoy a pre-concert dinner at the Memphis Zoo, reserved seating, and a park-like hospitality grove. Regular admissions tickets are $25, and this is one concert where coolers and picnic baskets are not allowed. Worry not, however; concessions will be available throughout the evening.