Ready or not, the holiday season is now upon us, which means the inescapable sounds of Bing Crosby and Mariah Carey have likely already invaded your headspace, whether you consented or not. That said, not all holiday music is created equally, and there are several awesome options headed our way soon. Here’s a quick guide to the best live music offerings heading to the M Town in the coming weeks that promise to leave you feeling downright festive…
Lucero Family Christmas (Dec. 6 at Minglewood Hall)
The Lucero Family Christmas returns to Minglewood Hall this year, as the hometown alt-country heroes pair up with special guests including Against Me!’s Laura Jane Grace (!!!) and hard rocking duo Heels. As many people have learned over the years, Lucero events at Minglewood Hall have a special alchemy that makes them all must-see events.
A BLVD Christmas featuring Anthony Hamilton (Dec. 8 at Mississippi Blvd. Church)
Grammy award winning R&B artist Anthony Hamilton will be joining the BLVD Sanctuary Choir & Orchestra for an evening of soulful holiday vibes at the historic Mississippi Blvd. Church on the edge of Crosstown. I have to admit, it was a bit startling to see Hamilton pop up on a flyer for a local church’s Christmas concert, but I’ll chalk it up to a bit of holiday magic.
Shangri-La Records Holiday Road Show (Dec. 9 at Shangri-La Records)
I can’t think of a better way to get my holiday shopping done than with a killer afternoon of live music soundtracking the experience. On Saturday, Shangri-La will be hosting a holiday sale alongside live performances from Susan Marshall, Steve Selvidge, Jeff Hulett, and J.D. Reager, all of whom will have their own yuletide-themed records for sale. Two birds with one stone!
Goner Presents: A Christmas Rock Show (Dec. 16 at B Side)
Speaking of great local record shops, Goner Records will be rocking the B Side stage with the festive musical stylings from Hartle Road , the Robby Grant Band, and The Sheiks with special guest Bennett. DJs Hot Tub Eric & Zac Ives–Goner’s two dynamic owners– are kicking things off at 7pm, with live music to follow.
Graham Winchester’s Honky Tonk Christmas (Dec. 22 at Hernando’s Hide-A-Way)
Memphis music mainstay Graham Winchester will be hosting a night of honky tonk at the city’s best rockabilly roadhouse, Hernando’s Hide-A-Way, featuring holiday tunes from Tunstyles, Cheyenne Mars, and more. If you like your Christmas music with just a slight hint of sleaze, then this is the show for you.
Mempho Presents: A Southern Avenue Christmas (Dec. 22 at Minglewood Hall)
Memphis’ very own Southern Avenue will be returning home for an evening of holiday favorites in their signature throw-back soulful sound. The group, which seems to be on an almost endless touring schedule, seems to get better with each subsequent appearance. I’d bet good money that the band will be at their best for this increasingly-rare hometown throwdown.
