Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week features plenty of shows to help you ring in the New Year.
January 14-15
Tommy Castro and the Painkillers
Back in the day, blues musicians won over audiences by playing clubs on the road night after night. That approach has worked well for Tommy Castro, the leader of the rowdy and unruly band The Painkillers. Check out the soulful, award-winning crew when it brings its energetic live show to the Valley. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-265-4842, rhythmroom.com
January 17
Sudan Archives
Before Brittney Parks adopted the Sudan Archives moniker, the Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter was in a pop band with her twin sister called N2. After finding the arrangement creatively stifling, she launched her solo project, blending R&B, experimental pop and Sudanese violin influences to significant acclaim. However, that wouldn’t mean she wouldn’t collaborate with her sibling again. The two collaborated on her experimental 2025 album, The BPM. 8 p.m. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. 2nd Ave., Phoenix, 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com
January 17-18
Southwest Gospel Music Festival
This three-day festival features top Christian and Southern Gospel musicians and comedians from around the country. Performers scheduled to appear include Jamey Ragle, Karen Peck & New River and Legacy Five. Check website for schedule and ticket prices. Ikeda Theater at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa, 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com
January 17
Tucson Folk Festival Showcase Concert
It takes a lot of money and time to put on the Tucson Folk Festival every spring. To support this beloved event, performers from both the Valley and Tucson are teaming up to put on a show. Performers include Betsy Ganz, Anameike Quinn and Carol Pacey & Andy Borunda. 1 p.m., $15, Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-265-4842, rhythmroom.com
January 17
Slap Frost Southwest Fest
An eclectic mix of up-and-comers and legends will converge in North Central Phoenix for this one-of-a-kind hip-hop event. Among those scheduled to appear are Z Man, Vocab Slick, DJ True Justice, Master Riot and the long-awaited reunion of the duo Cali Agents. Show begins at 1 p.m. Check website for full schedule and lineup. $20, Trill Hip Hop Shop, 4828 N. 16th St, Phoenix, trillphx.com
