Summer is practically synonymous with live music here in Pittsburgh, with both indoor and outdoor venues hosting artists from around the world. Check out five upcoming concerts at different venues this July!
Lake Street Dive
Lake Street Dive’s sound is difficult to describe, as the band crosses over into multiple genres, including Southern rock, alt-jazz, folk rock, indie pop, oldies, and just a bit of country. Whatever genre you may prefer, you’re more than likely to enjoy seeing Lake Street Dive at Stage AE this summer. Lead singer Rachael Price’s buttery voice is captivating, while the rest of the band crushes it on the guitar, trumpet, upright bass, drums, and keys. Their latest album, Free Yourself Up, will likely be a prominent part of the show, but the band has an impressive repertoire of older albums too. After seeing them perform at Stage AE on Thursday, July 30th, you’re going to want to listen to every Lake Street Dive song that you can.
Showtime: Tuesday, July 30th, 7:00PM, Stage AE
Queen + Adam Lambert
While Freddie Mercury may be irreplaceable, Queen purists shouldn’t automatically balk at the idea of Adam Lambert performing with the band. Queen chose Lambert to collaborate with them on their tours because of his singing chops, which were honed several years ago on the television show American Idol (he actually auditioned for the show with the song “Bohemian Rhapsody”). He also shares Freddie’s flare for the dramatics, bringing a youthful stage presence, colorful wardrobe, and burst of energy to his performances with Queen. While it may not sound exactly like the old Queen that you know and love, you should give Lambert a chance…you’ll still have a blast listening to him belt out classic tunes and jam with original band members Brian May and Roger Taylor at PPG Paints Arena on Wednesday, July 31st.
Showtime: Wednesday, July 31st, 6:00PM, PPG Paints Area
Summer Salt with Dante Elephante and Motel Radio
For a more relaxing show, check out Summer Salt, along with Dante Elephante and Motel Radio. Summer Salt is the perfect music for hanging out at the beach, or perhaps spending an evening at Spirit in Lawrenceville. This low-key band from Texas is influenced by the oldies, as well as Brazilian Bossa Nova music and jazz, and should pair perfectly with its fellow performers. Dante Elephante is a California-based indie rock band that also gives off major summer vibes, while Motel Radio is a rock band from New Orleans with an indie Americana sound. Groove out to all three bands in one night at Spirit on Saturday, July 27th!
Showtime: Saturday, July 27th, 7:00PM, Spirit
Weird Al Yankovich
Are you looking to party like it’s 1699? Join Weird Al Yankovich for “Amish Paradise” and other weird classics at the Benedum Center on Sunday, July 7th. His 2019 tour, Strings Attached, is both a rock and comedy experience, with Weird Al performing his parody songs alongside background singers and a full orchestra. The original band will also be there, along with costumes and props to keep you entertained, plus the potential to hear hilarious hits songs like “Eat It” and “Smells Like Nirvana.” If you’re a child of the ‘90s, you won’t want to miss this one.
Showtime: Sunday, July 7th, 8:00PM, The Benedum Center
Wiz Khalifa
Rapper Wiz Khalifa is a legend here in Pittsburgh, having attended Taylor Allderdice for high school in the city—he even named his tenth mixtape after the school. Wiz always puts on a strong show in the Burgh, and this year’s concert should be no exception. He’ll be performing at the KeyBank Pavilion in Burgettstown, which has plenty of general admission lawn space where you’ll get to experience Wiz’s performance in the full glory of summer. French Montana, DJ Drama, Playboi Carti, and MoneyBagg Yo will also be joining him for jam-packed evening of music that will have Pittsburgh’s rap fans rejoicing.
Showtime: Saturday, July 20th, 6:00PM, KeyBank Pavilion
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.