Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres all around the Valley, and this week’s column features music based in the blues.
May 23
Dreamer Isioma
Winning the approval of Pitchfork, Lizzo and Kali Uchis are damn good reasons you should listen to the Chicago singer/songwriter. But the viral artist’s (2020’s “Sensitive”) thoughtful (and occasional confrontational) lyrics set against funky R&B and Afropop beats is why you have to give them a spin. 7:30 p.m., $18-$20, Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-368-3121, valleybarphx.com
May 23
Dead & Company
The long, strange trip comes to an end this summer. The Grateful Dead offshoot consists of original members Mickey Hart and Bob Weir with John Mayer, Allman Brothers’ bassist Oteil Burbridge and RatDog keyboardist Jeff Chiment. If you love live music, this is an experience not to be missed. 7 p.m., $61.50-$201.50, Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com
May 24
Lizzo
It’s about damn time for the rapper/flutist to return to the Valley. Now that the “Truth Hurts” singer headlines arena shows, you can at least sit down once in a while, but good luck with that. You know you’re going to dance all night long. 8 p.m., $34.50-$124.50, Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, lizzomusic.com
May 25
Rodrigo y Gabriela
Don’t let the acoustic guitars fool you. The award-winning duo can shred with the best of them, covering Metallica and Led Zeppelin in their debut album. Nearly two decades later, they’re taking their music in a new, funky direction with their latest record, In Between Thoughts…A New World, an improvised collection of expansive and cinematic instrumentals. 7:30 p.m., $42-$84, Virginia G. Piper Theater at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale, scottsdalearts.org
May 28
Phoenix Blues Society Fundraiser and Band Showcase
Nothing beats hearing the live blues on a Sunday afternoon, and you can also support a great local music organization this weekend by checking out Cadillac Assembly Line, Tucson’s Nico Barberan, Aaron McCall Band, Until The Sun and West of the Blues. 12:30 p.m., $12, Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-612-4981, rhythmroom.com
