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 few legends, plus one in the making.
August 6
Femi Kuti and the Positive Force
You might be more familiar with Kuti’s father, Fela, who is largely credited with pioneering the rhythmic style known as Afrobeat. While Femi continues to play in that musical sandbox, he also expands it by incorporating other genres, such as hip-hop and techno. Perhaps the thread that truly connects father and son is the themes that permeate their lyrics. While the songs from both artists can be politically charged, their true intention is to unite the world, not divide it. 7 p.m., $49.50–$59.50, Musical Instrument Museum. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, 480-478-6000, mim.org
August 8
Buddy Guy
The influential blues guitarist, who turned 88 this year, refuses to slow down. He still plays more than 100 shows a year and even made an appearance in the hit 2025 film Sinners. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. The Showroom at Gila River Resort, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, 800-946-4452, playatgila.com
August 8-9
Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Show
Bluegrass legend Marty Stuart will open for the “It Takes A Woman” artist for both nights of his arena show. 7:30 p.m. Check website for prices. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, desertdiamondarena.com
August 9
Rick Springfield
You can call Rick Springfield many things: singer, songwriter, the object of attraction for soap opera lovers everywhere, actor, music producer. You can also call him a good sport. For example, the progressive metal band Coheed and Cambria wrote a sequel to Springfield’s iconic ’80s hit “Jessie’s Girl” in which it’s revealed that the titular character may be a little unstable. The band shared its idea with Springfield. Not only did he contribute vocals to the song, but he also appeared in the music video. Springfield will play a full set with John Waite, Wang Chung and Paul Young for the I Want My ’80s Tour. 7 p.m. The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480-850-7734, talkingstickresort.com
August 9
Steve Earle
You could say that the alt-country legend is known for not conforming to the Nashville scene rather than being a part of it. Yet that has never stopped those in Music City from praising the outspoken “Copperhead Road” songwriter, even inducting him into the Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame. But imagine the look of surprise on Earle’s face when his friend Vince Gill asked him to join the Grand Ole Opry, one of country music’s oldest institutions. Earle will be inducted next month by Emmylou Harris. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480-850-7734, talkingstickresort.com
