Martina McBride Performing with Boston Pops at Fourth of July Concert on the Esplanade

American country singer Martina McBride is performing with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops at the Fourth of July music and fireworks extravaganza at the Boston Explanade on Monday, July 4, 2011.

McBride is replacing Lionel Ritchie, who had to cancel his performance because of strained vocal chords.

The annual celebration along the Charles River has become America's most popular Fourth of July celebration with great musical stars alongside the famous Boston Pops Orchestra, culminating in a massive display of fireworks.

Also performing at this year's concert: actor Michael Chikilis and jazz singer Amanda Carr.

The tradition of a musical concert in Boston to celebrate Independence Day was actually started by Patrick S. Gilmore, an Irish immigrant who began giving free concerts on Boston Common on the Fourth of July in 1855.

For musical concerts and festivals in Massachusetts this summer, visit IrishMassachusetts.com or MassJazz.com.

For tourist information, visit MassVacation.com or BostonUSA.com.

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