Zap Newz

May 12, 2025
Just after sunset on a July night at Hyde Stadium, you can see electricity ripple across the grandstand like heat lightning when the Oahe Zap tie a game in the ninth. Yet the real spark of central South Dakota crackles long after the last fastball thuds into a catcher’s mitt. It hums through car radios on Highway 14, pulses beneath the red‑blinking lights of the Missouri River Bridge, and booms from arena PA systems where superstars transform prairie silence into surround‑sound spectacle. This guide—crafted especially for Zap devotees—maps out the performers worth chasing and the regional venues that host them, so you can keep the adrenaline high whether you’re cheering at Hyde or screaming at center stage. Lainey Wilson Tickets Louisiana native Lainey Wilson rides honky‑tonk twang over swamp‑rock grooves, a blend that earned her CMA Entertainer of the Year honors and a starring arc on Yellowstone. She began playing opry houses at nine, funded early tours by living in a leaky camper, and now headlines arenas with a neon‑lit water tower backdrop that nods to her tiny hometown of Baskin. Wilson’s songwriting champions resilience—“Heart Like a Truck” likens scars to chrome bumper dents—while “Things a Man Oughta Know” turns homespun advice into feminist manifesto. During concerts she shreds a mustard‑yellow Telecaster, invites fans onstage for two‑stepping tutorials, and often closes with The Band’s “The Weight,” trading verses with her crew under a single microphone. Kendrick Lamar Tickets Kendrick Lamar’s Pulitzer‑winning narratives chronicle Compton street corners and global conscience alike. He cut his teeth distributing mix‑tapes after school in 2003, then shattered rap norms with good kid, m.A.A.d city and To Pimp a Butterfly. Live, Lamar performs inside a transparent cube that alternately projects family photos, therapy notes, and breaking‑news headlines—an immersive commentary on surveillance culture. During “Alright,” a white‑robed gospel choir floods the stage, their harmonies swelling into protest march cadences. When he played Sioux Falls, he referenced Sitting Bull and the 38 Lakota riders as proof that Dakota land “knows rebellion,” drawing a standing ovation. Shakira Tickets Colombian polymath Shakira wrote her first song at eight and landed a Sony record deal at 13; three decades later she speaks five languages and holds more Latin Grammys than any female artist. Her shows mash belly‑dance isolations, Catalan flamenco footwork, and aerial silk routines. The current Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour spotlights women’s soccer on massive screens while Shakira rips through “Hips Don’t Lie” in a glittered football kit. Expect “Whenever, Wherever” to segue into Andean pan‑flute jam sections—a nod to Great Plains flute traditions that resonate with South Dakota’s Lakota heritage. The Weeknd Tickets Abel Tesfaye’s falsetto glides atop ’80s synths and noir R&B; he began anonymously uploading on YouTube in 2010 and now boasts the most‑streamed single in Spotify history. Dawn FM concerts unfold like dystopian radio broadcasts—a masked DJ narrates between songs, while dancers in bio‑hazard suits writhe beneath neon billboards flashing faux traffic alerts. Drone fleets form constellations above open‑air stadiums; over the Oahe Reservoir’s dark sky reserve these light clusters would gleam like extra stars. Metallica Tickets Forged in 1981 thrash culture, Metallica toured the Midwest early, thrumming VFW halls with Sonic Youth volume. Today their M72 No Repeat weekends rotate setlists so back‑to‑back shows have zero overlap—fans might head‑bang to “Battery” on Friday and “One” on Saturday. The stage is a donut, allowing James Hetfield to sprint endless laps while Kirk Hammett’s wah‑drenched solos loop outward like ripples on Lake Oahe. When they played Fargo, they auctioned a signed ESP guitar to support rural music programs; Pierre High’s marching band could find itself a future beneficiary. Post Malone Tickets Post Malone moved from Dallas to LA at 18, sleeping in a friend’s closet while uploading SoundCloud demos recorded on a $40 mic. “White Iverson” exploded, and soon his tattooed visage beamed from Times Square. Concerts blend acoustic sing‑alongs—he strums “Stay” with tears visible on jumbotron—with trap‑beat firestorms that unleash COâ‚‚ cannons. Post often tosses autographed Jordan sneakers into the pit and has been known to crash dive‑bars afterward for ’90s country karaoke; keep an eye on Pierre’s Longbranch Saloon post‑show. Blackpink Tickets Blackpink shattered YouTube’s 24‑hour views record and became the first Asian act to headline BST Hyde Park. Their concerts operate like four simultaneous solo showcases: Jennie raps over industrial bass, Jisoo covers Camila Cabello, Rosé levitates on a glitter grand piano, and Lisa lasers through dance breaks flanked by mirrors. Midwest Blinks arrive early to rehearse fan‑chant scripts, so expect Korean syllables echoing alongside cowboy hats in line. Hozier Tickets Irish bard Andrew Hozier‑Byrne weaves gospel choirs, Delta blues, and Yeatsian poetry into cathedral‑sized folk rock. Unreal Unearth stages resemble craggy limestone caves, with stalactite LEDs dripping amber light. During “Take Me to Church” he dims the arena to near‑black, conducting audience voices like a choir director. On his last Sioux Falls visit he covered Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” to honor prairie loneliness—anticipate another region‑specific nod. Beyoncé Tickets From Destiny’s Child leader to cultural institution, Beyoncé has racked up 32 Grammys, topping every major tour gross list. Renaissance shows deliver ballroom voguing, chrome horse animatronics, and a silver‑beaded cowboy hat that would make any South Dakota rancher proud. She spotlights local dance troupes for “Energy”—Rapid City’s Lakota hip‑hop ensemble appeared at her Minneapolis stop, signaling opportunities for state representation. The Black Keys Tickets Akron garage duo Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney recorded their first album in a basement using a Salvation Army microphone; now they headline festivals with a wall of vintage amps. Their Dropout Boogie tour features a rotating cast of blues legends—Harmonica Shah guested in Omaha—so Pierre’s own riverboat blues scene may yield a cameo. Expect stomping handclaps on “Gold on the Ceiling,” followed by fuzz‑bomb closer “Lonely Boy.” Katy Perry Tickets California Gurl Katy Perry burst from gospel beginnings into bubblegum pop royalty, tying Michael Jackson’s record of five No. 1 singles from one album. Her Vegas residency deployed mushroom trampolines and 20‑foot talking toilets; the rumored stadium reboot scales those props to Jumbotron proportions. She dedicates “Firework” to local first responders nightly—at Des Moines she invited state troopers onstage—so Pierre firefighters may soon share the spotlight. Wu‑Tang Clan Tickets Staten Island’s Wu‑Tang Clan fused kung‑fu samples with streetwise philosophy, launching solo empires for RZA, Method Man, and more. Their live shows feel like block parties; up to twelve MCs trade verses as Shaolin hand signs punctuate every rhyme. Anniversary sets of Enter the Wu‑Tang (36 Chambers) spotlight deep cuts like “Tearz,” and DJ Mathematics scratches vinyl atop a giant “W” riser. In Minneapolis they opened with a Lakota flute sample—proof they study region‑specific sounds. Def Leppard Tickets Four decades after Hysteria, Sheffield’s finest still croon stacked harmonies while Rick Allen’s custom kit thunders one‑handed beats. The stage brandishes a diamond‑pattern catwalk that thrusts Joe Elliott into the crowd for “Pour Some Sugar on Me.” Their catalog streams spiked 200 percent after appearing on Stranger Things, introducing them to Gen‑Z Zap fans. Tate McRae Tickets Calgary dancer‑turned‑pop‑sensation Tate McRae trained under Paula Abdul at 13, placed third on So You Think You Can Dance, and now headlines arenas with kinetic routines blending contemporary ballet and TikTok micro‑moves. Her hit “Greedy” pairs skittering synths with whisper‑rap verses; live, she performs it atop a cube that spins 180 degrees mid‑chorus. McRae evangelizes mental‑health openness, pausing shows to read anonymous fan confessions projected onstage. Keith Urban Tickets New Zealand‑born Keith Urban landed his first U.S. record deal in Nashville while sleeping on a friend’s couch. Four Grammys later, he still stages guitar shred‑offs with his backing band, trading licks on vintage Fender Deluxes. Urban’s Speed of Now tour embeds a satellite stage halfway up the seating bowl so upper‑deck fans witness finger‑taps up close. He famously checks Craigslist for local sellers to snag bargain guitars in each city, gifting them to kids onstage. Where the Plains Meet the Power Chords Hyde Stadium, Pierre — Opened 1935; concert capacity ≈ 4,500 on field Best known for hosting the Zap beneath Works Progress Administration stone walls, Hyde converts to concert mode by rolling protective turf over the infield. Bob Seger’s 1996 gig here introduced decibel‑monitor ordinances still enforced citywide. Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Sioux Falls — Opened 2014; capacity ≈ 12,000 A two‑hour interstate cruise east delivers you to South Dakota’s largest indoor venue. Its ETFE‑cushion roof panels mimic prairie grass swaying, and the acoustic engineers modeled sound diffusion after wind whipping across badlands buttes. The Monument, Rapid City — Barnett Arena built 1977 (upgraded 2021); capacity ≈ 10,000 Set against the Black Hills, this complex debuted with Elvis Presley’s final South Dakota show. Recent renovations added a telescoping stage that shortens load‑in times, enticing mega‑tours otherwise deterred by mountain logistics. Pine Ridge Wacipi Grounds, Kyle, SD — Seasonal outdoor amphitheater; capacity ≈ 6,000 Primarily home to powwow celebrations, the grounds welcome mainstream acts respectful of Lakota protocols. Mumford & Sons’ secret 2019 set here donated proceeds to language‑preservation programs and proved large‑scale shows can coexist with cultural stewardship. Charge Up Your Ticket Cart: ZAP5 Every lightning‑quick steal home and crowd‑roaring homer fuels the Oahe Zap’s buzz. Keep that energy flowing at your favorite concerts by entering ZAP5 at TicketSmarter checkout—good toward any artist or venue highlighted here. Save the extra cash for bison jerky at Pierre’s farmer’s market or a post‑show slice of Chislic at Richie Z’s. From the crack of a bat echoing over Lake Oahe to the echo of a guitar solo ricocheting off Missouri River bluffs, central South Dakota is tuned to amplify life’s loudest moments. Circle these dates, gas up for wide‑open‑sky road trips, and let every chorus carry the same jolt as a Zap walk‑off. See you under the floodlights—whether they shine from stadium poles or concert spot rigs—as the prairie night sparks with music and memory. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
By Lizzy Kocer January 8, 2025
Pierre SD Event Guide: Oahe Zap Edition Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, Pierre, South Dakota, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. As the state capital, it boasts a rich heritage alongside modern attractions. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who enjoys vibrant festivals and performing arts, Pierre has something for everyone. From the thrill of Oahe Zap baseball games to picturesque venues and lively community events, this city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Popular Venues in Pierre, SD Hyde Stadium Hyde Stadium, constructed in 1935, is a charming ballpark that has been the centerpiece of baseball in Pierre for decades. With seating for about 1,500 spectators, the stadium combines old-school charm with modern amenities. It’s not just home to the Oahe Zap but also hosts various amateur and high school baseball tournaments. Over the years, Hyde Stadium has seen numerous historic games, fostering a rich tradition of baseball in the area. Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center The Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center, built in the late 1970s, serves as a multi-purpose venue for conventions, banquets, and live events in Pierre. It regularly hosts local theater productions, business expos, and community gatherings. While not a traditional entertainment venue, it’s a hub for regional cultural and social events. South Dakota Discovery Center The South Dakota Discovery Center, established in 1989, is a family-friendly science and educational facility that frequently hosts interactive exhibits and events. Although not a performance venue, it’s a popular attraction for visitors and locals seeking engaging experiences. Professional Sports & High-Profile Events in Minneapolis While Pierre itself doesn’t have major professional sports teams, nearby cities offer plenty of opportunities for sports enthusiasts to catch games. Minnesota Vikings Tickets (NFL) The Minnesota Vikings, formed in 1961, are the nearest NFL team to Pierre, SD. Based in Minneapolis, the Vikings play their home games at U.S. Bank Stadium, which opened in 2016 with a seating capacity of 66,860. The team has appeared in four Super Bowls and won the NFC Championship four times, though they are still in search of their first Super Bowl title. Minnesota Timberwolves Tickets (NBA) The Minnesota Timberwolves, established in 1989, are the closest NBA team to Pierre. They play at the Target Center in Minneapolis, which can accommodate over 19,000 fans. Though the team has faced challenges in its history, the Timberwolves’ playoff run in 2004, led by Kevin Garnett, remains a highlight. Minnesota Lynx Tickets (WNBA) The Minnesota Lynx, founded in 1999, are one of the most successful teams in the WNBA. They also play at the Target Center in Minneapolis, which seats over 19,000 fans. The Lynx have won four WNBA Championships (2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017) and are known for their dominance during the 2010s, led by stars like Maya Moore and Sylvia Fowles. The Target Center has hosted also performances by world-renowned artists such as Taylor Swift , Ed Sheeran and Kelsea Ballerini . Its versatile design allows it to accommodate a wide range of events, from concerts to family shows, making it a central hub for entertainment in the Twin Cities. Minnesota Twins Tickets (MLB) The Minnesota Twins, founded in 1901 as the Washington Senators, relocated to Minneapolis in 1961. They play at Target Field, which opened in 2010 and seats over 39,000 fans. The Twins have won three World Series titles, with their most recent championship in 1991, cementing their legacy as a storied franchise in Major League Baseball. Minnesota Wild Tickets (NHL) Hockey fans in Pierre can follow the Minnesota Wild, established in 2000. They play at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, which has a capacity of 18,600. Known for their passionate fan base, the Wild have consistently been a competitive presence in the NHL playoffs. For racing enthusiasts, the closest NASCAR or IndyCar events are typically held in the Twin Cities area or further south in Kansas. Golf fans can catch PGA Tour events in nearby states, such as the 3M Open in Minnesota. Festivals and Major Events in Pierre, SD Oahe Days Arts & Music Festival Oahe Days is one of Pierre’s premier summer events, featuring live music, art exhibits, food vendors, and family activities along the banks of the Missouri River. This vibrant festival draws visitors from across the region and highlights the community’s creative spirit. South Dakota State Rodeo Finals Held annually, the South Dakota State Rodeo Finals bring top rodeo talent to the Pierre area. Spectators can enjoy events like bull riding, barrel racing, and roping competitions. The rodeo is a celebration of South Dakota’s rich Western heritage and draws crowds of all ages. Fort Pierre Chouteau Commemoration This annual event honors the history of Fort Pierre Chouteau, a historic fur trading post established in 1832. The commemoration includes historical reenactments, educational programs, and cultural performances that bring the past to life. Performing Arts and Culture Pierre Players Community Theatre The Pierre Players have been a cornerstone of the local performing arts scene since 1967. They produce several shows each year, ranging from classic dramas to contemporary comedies. Performances are held at the Grand Opera House, a historic venue with seating for approximately 300 attendees. South Dakota Symphony Orchestra Though based in Sioux Falls, the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra occasionally performs in Pierre. Established in 1922, the orchestra is renowned for its diverse repertoire and community outreach, including youth concerts and educational programs. The Lakota Music Project is a highlight of their work, helping to introduce Lakota tradition to new audiences around the world. Black Hills Playhouse Located a few hours west of Pierre, the Black Hills Playhouse has been entertaining audiences since 1946. This historic venue offers professional theater performances in a picturesque outdoor setting during the summer months like Legally Blonde and Waitress. Planning for your next adventure Pierre, SD, and its surrounding areas offer a unique mix of sports, cultural events, and historical attractions. Whether you’re catching a game at Hyde Stadium, enjoying a festival by the Missouri River, or exploring the vibrant performing arts scene, there’s no shortage of entertainment options. With the Oahe Zap bringing fresh energy to the local sports landscape and the city’s rich history on full display, Pierre is a destination that truly has something for everyone. And thanks to our friends at TicketSmarter, you can save 5% on your next purchase of live event tickets with code ZAPS5 at checkout.he body content of your post goes here.
By Lizzy Kocer November 20, 2024
cyber and in-store deals and steals

spend your summer with us!

The Ramkota Hotel in Pierre is teaming up with Oahe Zap as its primary hotel for the summer season. Click below to book your room today and see you at the ball field!

BOOK NOW!

Your Journey to Excellence Starts Here

Is baseball more than just a game for you? It's time to channel your passion into performance. Our team of experienced coaches at Oahe Zap Baseball are committed to helping you excel. We're not just training players; we're building future baseball stars.

FAQ’s

  • Where is Hyde Stadium located?

    Hyde Stadium is located at 110 S. Ree St. in Pierre just across the corner from the South Dakota capitol building.

  • Where is the Oahe Zap office located?

    Our office is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Pierre. 324 South Pierre Street. Come say hello!

  • What is a good email address to get in touch with the Oahe Zap?

    The best email to use is oahezap@gmail.com. From there, we can get you in touch with whoever can answer your questions the best!

  • Can I try out for the Oahe Zap?

    We do not hold tryouts for our team. However, if you are a college player with eligibility looking to play for the summer feel free to get ahold of us and we can have a conversation about playing!

Ready to elevate your game? Contact us at oahezap@gmail.com  now, and let's hit the ground running!

Your journey to excellence starts here.