LEWISTON — The Bates College outdoor music series, Concerts on the Quad, will feature legendary blues, gospel and jazz singer Francine Reed and her band at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, on Bates’ Historic Quad, at College Street and Campus Avenue.

Performing at Bates with musicians including several from Maine, Reed may be best-known to many listeners for her work as part of Lyle Lovett’s Large Band. But though she didn’t receive national recognition until she began recording with Lovett in 1985, she has always been a singer, first performing with her family gospel choir.

Reed began performing professionally in the 1980s, picking up gigs in jazz clubs and functions in Phoenix, Ariz. She became known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, offering a blend of jazz, blues and R&B. She opened shows for such artists as Miles Davis, Etta James, Smokey Robinson and the Crusaders.

In 1985, friends introduced Reed to Lovett, who was searching for a female singer for his new band. Lovett was still a struggling performer when they met, but as his star rose, Reed became an integral part of his show.

Admission to this concert is free, and audience members are encouraged to bring picnics and chairs or blankets. For more information, call 207-786-6400.

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