New Homecoming concert to feature popular Red Dirt/Southern Alt Rock artists  

A new experience will be part of Pittsburg State University Homecoming activities this year: an outdoor concert in Gorilla Village on Friday, Oct. 18, featuring nationally known recording artist Austin Meade, popular local band Ty Ellis & the Flatliners, and Oklahoma native and American Idol contestant Cam Allen.

Attendance will be limited to 2,000.

Students may each pick up one free ticket while supplies last.

Starting on Oct. 4 at 8:30 a.m., faculty, staff, and alumni may purchase tickets for $5 each and community members may purchase tickets for $10 each.

All tickets must be picked up or purchased in person at the PSU Ticket Office, 107 Weede Building, 1701 S. Homer, which is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Any remaining tickets will be sold at the gate starting at 7:30 p.m. the night of the concert for $10, cash only. The concert will begin at 8:30 p.m.

Southern alt-rocker and Texas native Austin Meade is in the midst of a banner year with performances at major U.S. festivals like Lollapalooza and Louder Than Life and tours in which he opened for hard rock heavy hitters Godsmack + I Prevail!

His latest single, “Blackout,” showcases a more modern rock sound compared to past hits from the outspoken singer/songwriter, as well as sleek, eclectic production.

He released his newest studio album, “Abstract Art of an Unstable Mind,” in 2022, and ended last year as the support act for legendary blues rockers ZZ Top.

His 2020 album, “Black Sheep,” included the single “Happier Alone” which amassed more than 50 million streams in the U.S. alone.

Ty Ellis & The Flatliners deliver an authentic blend of powerful gritty vocals and electrifying instrumentals influenced by classic country to southern rock. They are known for high-energy performances at a number of area venues, from Pickled Pete’s in Frontenac to The Stables Casino in Miami, Oklahoma.

With southern roots and a Nashville sound, Cam Allen and his band started out jamming for friends after football games and baseball tournaments. One tweet took their sound viral and adding TikTok fired up their follow count.

Cam appeared in Season 19 of American Idol. Now, he and his band are writing, recording, and playing to live crowds who love to sing along.

The concert will feature a beer garden operated by Aladdin Campus Dining and local food trucks.

The concert is sponsored by the Homecoming Committee, Alumni & Constituent Relations, and the Gorilla Activities Board.

“It’s very exciting for us to be able to attract artists of this caliber,” said Bailey Miller, assistant director of Campus Activities. “We’re hoping to make this an annual tradition!”

Prior to the concert on Oct. 18, the 13th Annual Taste of Pittsburg, a Homecoming favorite, will be held in the Overman Student Center featuring samples by many local vendors and a cash bar.

Advance registration is required by Oct. 11, with limited tickets available. Details: pittstate.edu/homecomin