#2: Juliette Lewis at Livewire, September 7
Actress Juliette Lewis grew from an annoyed little girl in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” to a murderous woman in “Natural Born Killers” right before our eyes. Now a similar – but opposite – thing is happening right before our ears. Lewis has been making music since 1994, and fronted hard rock band Juliette Lewis & The Licks until 2009. Without the Licks, Lewis seems to have smoothed her sultry rock edge; her newest solo album, “Hello Hero,” is pretty pop, full of funky bass lines, hand claps and synthesizers. Her vocals are lighter, girlier – more Katy Perry than Joan Jett. But the music is catchy and danceable, and Lewis remains a consummate performer. $15-$18 plus fees. 7 p.m. September 7 at Livewire. livewireaz.com
#3: “American Herstory” at Space 55, September 10
Hear history from the fairer sex’s side during this evening of performances by nine women poets, playwrights, comedians, musicians, zine writers and performance artists, including spoken word artist Nikki G, comedians Alley Lightfoot and Hattie Jean Hayes, and musician Margo Brookover. $10. 8 p.m. September 10 at Space 55. space55.org
#4: Labor Day Divas Show at Kobalt Bar, September 5
If you love “Rupaul’s Drag Race,” then the annual Labor Day Divas show at GLBT hotspot Kobalt Bar is right up your alley. Some of the best and cleverest drag queens/female impersonators in the Valley will take the stage, including Barbra Seville (whom we feature in the upcoming October issue of PHOENIX magazine), Aimee V. Justice, Lady Christian, and Payda Parc. Hosted by TC Taylor. Free (bring tips!). 1-3 p.m. September 5 at Kobalt Bar. kobaltbarphoenix.com
#5: Second Sundays at The Hall, September 11
Blues-hued rock music is the main fare at this Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame fundraiser concert. Arizona acts Sugahbeat, Joe Vito Band, Squiddog featuring David Vitagliano and the trio of Jerry Ford, Ed Toaspern and Joey Spadfore will perform. The rockin’ continues at 9 p.m. with local mainstay Chuck E. Baby. $10 suggested donation. 4 p.m. September 11 at The Hall (7919 E. Thomas Road). azmusichalloffame.org
