Innings Festival Steps Back Up to the Plate

Jason KeilJanuary 13, 2023
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One spring event in the Valley hits everyone’s sweet spot: Innings Festival. Since 2018, baseball legends and music fans have converged for some rock ’n’ roll fun (inningsfestival.com). But which acts stand out in the lineup? Here’s our list of the performers who we think will hit it out of the park at Tempe Beach Park on February 25 and 26.

HOME RUN
Green Day
The ’90s band, which headlines Saturday’s lineup, brought punk into the mainstream with songs like “American Idiot” and “Longview.” They also have a set list of hits nearly 30 years deep and onstage antics that are certain to please any crowd.

MVP
The Black Crowes
One of the best live bands (ever) is on its third reunion stint, making this Saturday night performance by the Southern blues rockers, known for rollicking hits like “Hard to Handle” and “Remedy,” a must-see.

WILD PITCH 
Paris Jackson
Yes, the daughter of R&B superstar Michael Jackson will be taking the stage on Sunday. And surprisingly enough, the model/actress’ ’90s throwback sound fits right in with the festival’s rock lineup. But did she inherit her dad’s transcendent live-performance chops? There’s only one way to find out.

STRIKEOUT
No local musicians
At press time, no one from the Valley was on the festival’s lineup. Given the number of great local bands promoter C3 Presents, based out of Austin, Texas, could choose from, this oversight feels egregious.