Waterfest 2024 Finale: A Bittersweet Goodbye to Summer with Danny Seraphine & CTA and Child’s AnthemThe end of summer always comes with a tinge of sadness, especially when it’s marked by the last Waterfest of the year. 2024’s final Waterfest was no exception. It’s that bittersweet moment when you realize the long, warm days of summer are winding down, and fall is just around the corner. But, oh, what a way to wrap up the season!
The weather couldn’t have been better—clear skies, a gentle breeze, and the perfect temperature to enjoy some live music. We kicked off the evening with a stroll down the boardwalk, hoping to see the usual lineup of boats that make the journey for Waterfest’s grand finale. While there weren’t as many as usual, a few dedicated boaters still made the trip, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere.
The crowd inside was comfortably medium-sized, creating an intimate yet lively environment for the night’s performances. First up was Child’s Anthem: The Music of Toto. This band is a powerhouse collection of some of Nashville’s finest studio musicians, and they truly brought Toto’s music to life. With Keith Landry on vocals—a man who toured and sang with Toto in their prime during the 1980s—Child’s Anthem delivered everything from sweeping ballads to R&B grooves to electrifying rock songs. They nailed it, and the crowd loved every moment.
After a short break, it was time for the main event: Danny Seraphine and CTA with Former Chicago Singer. Danny, the original drummer and co-founder of Chicago, didn’t just bring his legendary skills to the stage—he brought the soul of Chicago’s music with him. The band’s sound was incredibly tight, and the vocals were nothing short of amazing. It was a nostalgic journey through some of the greatest hits that have defined rock and jazz-rock fusion for decades.
As the night went on, it became clear that this was the perfect way to close out Waterfest for the year. Great music, great friends, and that unique feeling you only get during an amazing summer night. It’s always hard to say goodbye to summer, but nights like these make it all worthwhile.
As always, I’ve got some video and photos from the night for you to check out. Whether you were there to experience it live or just want to see what you missed, I hope they capture a bit of the magic that was Waterfest 2024.
