Independence, Inc., a nonprofit committed to empowering people with disabilities, is kicking off the summer with the first-ever Sound of Independence live music festival on Thursday, June 6, at The Starving Rooster in Minot from 7 to 11 p.m.

The event has a diverse lineup of established artists with and without disabilities in an effort to promote inclusion and disability representation in music.

Festival attendees will have the opportunity to listen to eight artists perform live on an outdoor stage. Performances will feature local and out-of-state musicians including Lexi Wyman, Vanity Plate, The Anderson Brothers and DJ Univrse, It Was Her Idea, Melissa Spelchen, Drew Hanson, Jennifer Thom and Billy Altom.

Tickets can be purchased for $10 online via Eventbrite, by phone or at the door. Music fans are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. Event proceeds will benefit the mission of Independence, Inc. and help fund innovative programs designed to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. The Sound of Independence is exclusively for adults ages 21 and older, identification will be required. Free parking will be available throughout the downtown area. For more information, contact Independence, Inc. at 839-4724 or visit www.independencecil.org/events.