The 780s Series brings world-class musicians to town. Here’s how Lawrencians can hear their stories for free

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The 780s Series is an annual lecture hosted by the Lawrence Public Library, and it brings some of the brightest minds in music to Lawrence to share their experiences. 

Founded by Brad Allen, the library’s executive director, this initiative celebrates music storytellers and enhances Lawrence’s already vibrant music scene. 

The event’s name is even a reference to its library roots; in the Dewey Decimal system, 780 marks all things music.

Although it was paused during the pandemic, the 780s Series is returning next month for the first time since 2019. The event — which will be free to the public — is set for Feb. 9 at the Lawrence Arts Center. David Lowery, the singer-songwriter behind alt-rock bands Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven, will discuss his career and music rights activism.

Since 2015, 780s has featured guests including Rakim, one of the most influential MCs of all time; Mavis Staples, a powerhouse gospel singer and civil rights activist; and Kim Gordon, the bassist, guitarist, and vocalist of alternative rock band Sonic Youth.

Learn more about the 780s Series and its upcoming event with David Lowery on the Lawrence Public Library’s event page.

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Jordan Winter (she/her), a contributor to The Lawrence Times, is a 2019 KU grad with degrees in journalism and political science.

Check out her work at jrdnwntr.com. See more of her work for the Times here.

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