By News Observer Staff | OGNSC
Hours before Grammy-nominated singer and actor Tyrese Gibson took the stage, thousands of concertgoers filled Burton Chace Park for the Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series, a free annual program presented by the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors.
Concertgoers arrived early to claim their spots, creating a festival-like atmosphere along the marina. Families set up tents, grills and buffet-style meals as the aroma of barbecue filled the air. Others watched from boats docked along the harbor, taking in sunset views as R&B music echoed across the waterfront.
For many attendees, the concert offered more than an evening of live music. It became an opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with family and friends, and create memories in a setting that brought together longtime residents, visitors and fans from across the region.
Expanding Access to the Waterfront
The concert is part of the county’s broader Marina del Rey for All initiative, championed by Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. The initiative seeks to make Marina del Rey a more inclusive, equitable, accessible and sustainable waterfront destination through expanded community programming and public engagement.
“For more than 26 years, the Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series has created opportunities for people to gather, connect, recreate and experience one of Los Angeles County’s most unique public spaces,” said Duane Johnson, senior public information specialist for the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors.
The crowd included attendees who traveled from across Los Angeles County and beyond. Some told Tyrese they had driven more than two hours to attend, reflecting both the artist’s strong following and the appeal of free community experiences at the marina.
During his performance, Tyrese reflected on returning to the Los Angeles area.
“I was born and raised in this beloved city,” he told the crowd.
Throughout the evening, he emphasized unity and inclusion, telling attendees they represented “diversity and inclusion” — a message reflected in the audience gathered at the park.
Bringing Fans Closer
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when Tyrese asked security personnel to remove the barricades separating fans from the stage. The move allowed attendees to come closer and created a more intimate concert experience.
Karen Barton, who attended the concert, said she first discovered the Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series during Goapele’s 2024 performance and has continued returning.
“I haven’t been disappointed yet,” Barton said. “There have been some really good acts in the lineup, and this year I couldn’t believe they were giving us the opportunity to enjoy an artist as amazing as Tyrese for free.”
She said Tyrese’s decision to bring the audience closer made the evening even more memorable.
“I plan to return for the upcoming shows,” Barton said.
Tyrese also encouraged audience members to tell one another “I love you” and hug the people standing nearby, creating moments of connection throughout the crowd.
His set featured fan favorites including “What Am I Gonna Do,” “Signs of Love Makin’” and “Pullin’ Me Back.” Concertgoers sang along as Tyrese also paid tribute to R&B artists who came before him.
Photo credit: OGNSC
As the sun set over the marina, fans danced, raised their phone lights and received roses from Tyrese as he serenaded the crowd. Although his scheduled set had ended, he continued performing, telling fans he wanted to give the audience what they came to see.
County officials said free community events such as the Summer Concert Series provide accessible recreational opportunities while encouraging more residents to experience Marina del Rey.
At a time when many entertainment experiences carry a high price tag, free community events allow residents to enjoy live performances and shared cultural experiences without the added barrier of cost.
The Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series continues Aug. 1 with the Marina del Rey Symphony, Aug. 8 with Monsieur Periné, and Aug. 15 with D Smoke and Carl Thomas.