Vocalist Karen Johnson will bring the sounds of Motown to the Gazebo Stage Friday at 8 p.m.

Johnson, of Chesapeake, began singing in her church choir and high school chorus, then studied music at Elizabeth City State University. 

She played a major role in the state play “Aint Misbehavin,” a tribute to the black musicians of the 1920s and 1930s who were part of the Harlem Renaissance. 

This is her second appearance in the Summer Concert Series. On stage, she focuses on the classic sounds of the Motown era.

Concert cancellations due to rain are made as late as possible on Friday. Rainouts are posted when possible on www.facebook.com/smithfield.times and www.smithfieldarts.org.