Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features rappers, country singers and a rapper who became a country singer.
June 16-17
The Pixies
While it seems foolish to play “Gigantic” without Kim Deal on bass, chances are you won’t care who is laying down the groove when influential alt-rockers The Pixies arrive in Downtown Phoenix for its two-day residency. The band’s sound was so revered in the late ’80s and early ’90s that not only are they credited for inspiring grunge greats Nirvana, but even rock elder statesman David Bowie has covered them. Their first night in town will feature the albums Bossanova and Trompe Le Monde played in full, and the setlist for its second show consist of “classics.” Indie rocker Kurt Vile opens the show. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix, 480-659-1641, livenation.com
June 18
Wu-Tang Clan
RZA, the founder of the Wu-Tang Clan, had a five-year plan to set the story of the legendary rap group straight, which included a documentary series, a dramatic mini-series, and even a Las Vegas residency. Now that those have been checked off his list, it’s time for the members of Wu-Tang to get together for one last tour, which RZA promises will be “unlike anything you’ve ever seen.” Run the Jewels opens the show. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. PHX Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, phx-arena.com
June 20
Dierks Bentley
The Valley-born country singer was recently declared “the King of the Breakup Song” by Vice for his hit song “She Hates Me,” a humorous track (not to be confused with the Puddle of Mudd hit) about staying the same when your partner wants you to change. The hometown boy is returning home for his Broken Branches Tour with Zach Top and The Band Loula. 7 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com
June 21
Post Malone
The heavily tattooed “Sunflower” rapper recently made the jump to country with his latest album, F-1 Trillion. It’s proven so successful that not only has the artist snagged some Grammy nominations, but he’s also heading on the road for what he has dubbed The BIG ASS Stadium Tour. Consider our ticket purchased. 6:30 p.m., Check website for ticket prices, State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale, 602-379-0102, postmalone.com
June 22-23
Shakira
After a seven-year hiatus, the renowned Latin pop singer is making her triumphant return to the stage in Phoenix this summer for her highly anticipated Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. PHX Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, phx-arena.com
