This weekend’s live-music roundup features a beloved Valley music event and full-orchestra sci-fi masterpiece.
January 23
Xzhibit
The critically acclaimed rapper, actor and one-time host of MTV’s Pimp My Ride is heading out on the road in support of his latest album, Kingmaker. 7 p.m., Check website for ticket prices. Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Ave. Tempe, 480-829-607, luckymanonline.com
January 24
Parker McCollum
Parker McCollum loves a challenge. Instead of working in Nashville, the singer recorded his self-titled fifth album in New York City. But the country star soon found himself uncomfortable in the big city, fearing it might be “career suicide.” That unease, however, spurred him to write some of his best work, and fans warmly embraced the new material. When you consider that McCollum is playing one of the biggest venues in the Valley this week, it seems like all that anxiety was worth the risk. 7:30 p.m. Check website for prices. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, desertdiamondarena.com
January 24
12th Annual Phoenix Rock Lottery
If you’re new to this annual event, here’s how it works: At the start of the day, 25 local musicians are grouped into five bands. These newly formed groups will write and perform three original songs and a cover on the evening of the concert. Anything can happen (and usually does) at this charity event, which benefits Rosie’s House, which donates musical instruments and instruction to underprivileged Valley youth. 8 p.m., $18, Crescent Ballroom, 308 N Second Ave., Phoenix, 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com
January 25
Blade Runner Live
Immerse yourself in the atmospheric, synth-heavy score of this visually stunning cyberpunk classic. Composed by the award-winning Vangelis and performed live by The Aves Ensemble, the iconic soundtrack for Ridley Scott’s 1980 sci-fi romance will accompany a screening of the film. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Ikeda Theater at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa, 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com
