Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features a wicked witch and an ice queen all rolled into one.
July 24
Kenny Chesney
Expect a party when the “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” singer takes the stage to support his latest album, Born. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com
July 25
Idina Menzel
Since she wasn’t cast in her breakout role as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in the movie version of the Broadway musical Wicked, the accomplished vocalist (and voice of Elsa in the Frozen franchise) is heading to Mesa for what is sure to be a passionate performance. 7:30 p.m., $60-$125, Ikeda Theater at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa, 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com
July 25
Ziggy Marley
Reggae, with its message of peace and liberation, is making a comeback due largely to the release of Bob Marley: One Love earlier this year. The biopic’s subject’s son, Ziggy Marley, is an accomplished musician in his own right, carrying on his father’s socially-conscious legacy but with a style all his own. 8 p.m., $69-$175, Showroom at Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, 800-946-4452, playatgila.com
July 27
Old School Block Party
This lineup has all the R&B and hip-hop artists you loved back in the day, but your parents hated. 112, Too Short, Stevie B, Digital Underground, 2 Live Crew, Debbie Deb, Trinere, and Club Nouveau are scheduled to appear. 7 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Desert Diamond Arena, 29400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, 623-772-3200, desertdiamondarena.com
July 28
KC and the Sunshine Band
Despite how you feel about disco, there is no denying the accomplishments of this Florida band: numerous Grammy Awards and nominations, five number-one singles, and, according to the group’s website, their music has been featured on more than 200 movie soundtracks, including Saturday Night Fever. Hate them if you must, but KC and the Sunshine Band have achieved legendary status. 8 p.m. $59-$129, Showroom at Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, 800-946-4452, playatgila.com
