As the weather finally begins to heat up here in Memphis, so does the live music offerings! March is absolutely jam packed with great offerings from both touring national acts and locals alike, so we thought we’d help you navigate the coming deluge with 10 of our most anticipated upcoming live music events…
5 Fridays of Jazz at the Benjamin Hooks Library (Every Friday in March)
The annual 5 Fridays of Jazz series is returning yet again for another stellar season of free local jazz at the central library. This year’s slate includes local luminaries such as Joyce Cobb, Deborah Swiney, and the Jazz Ensemble of Memphis. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, making this the perfect way to kick off your weekend in style.
The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight at the Orpheum (March 13)
The Rock Orchestra is a collective of classical musicians who breath beautifully dark energy into legendary rock and metal songs from legendary acts such as Metallica, Rage Against the Machine, and AC/DC. Surrounded by an ethereal candlelit setting and elaborate costumes, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that will make you hear some of your old favorites in a completely new way.
Isley Bros+ Keith Sweat and the Landers Center (March 14)
There are few musical acts more legendary than the Isley Brothers, who have been churning out classic hits since the late 1950s. Featuring original members Ronald and Ernie Isley, the group will soon be headed to the Landers Center for an evening of sweet soul music featuring guests Keith Sweat and Keke Wyatt.
Aaron Lee Tasjan at Growlers (March 15)
Songwriter, singer, and sideman guitarist (New York Dolls, Drivin’ n’ Cryin’, Everest) Aaron Lee Tasjan is a true musical chameleon with a seemingly endless array of musical styles, ranging from country-rock to funk. That said, he has most often earned comparisons to singer/songwriters like Harry Nilsson, Tom Petty, and Randy Newman, which ain’t bad company to say the least.
Optic Sink + Greg Cartwright at Lamplighter Lounge (March 15)
Before heading out of town to record their third album, local synth-bunkers Optic Sink will be hitting the stage at the Lamplighter to preview some of their new songs. As if that wasn’t enough, they’ll also be joined by Hartle Road and Greg Cartwright, making this arguably the finest local line-up of the month.
Bright Eyes w/ Hurray for the Riff Raff at Minglewood Hall (March 17)
Over 20 years, Bright Eyes and lead singer Conor Oberst have become synonymous with cripplingly melancholy indie rock that speaks directly to the sad boys and girls across the globe. With his warbling voice and deeply intelligent songwriting, Oberst has famously been called his generation’s Bob Dylan. Don’t forget to bring a few tissues to dry your tears on your way to the venue.
Kraftwerk at Overton Park Shell (March 25)
The Shell Yeah! Benefit Series has brought many notable performers to Overton Park over the years, but this just might be their crown jewel. Kraftwerk–the pioneering German electronic group that forever changed the face of popular music–will be bringing their world-renown multi-media extravaganza to the Shell for what is arguably the most anticipated show of the spring.
Paul Taylor at The Green Room (March 26)
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of his critically acclaimed EP “The Old Forest Trail,” Paul Taylor will be returning home from the Great White North for a rare performance at the Green Room at Crosstown Arts. Paul, a multi-instrumentalist who has worked with a countless number of Memphis musicians, is well-known around these parts for his musicianship and abilities as a live performer and is sure to draw a great crowd.
Heavy Meddle Fest at Meddlesome Brewing Co. (March 29)
Cordova’s Meddlesome Brewing Co. is rocking the suburbs yet again with their annual Heavy Meddle Fest, a free day-long festival of face-melting metal. This year’s line-up is particularly stacked, featuring performances from some of the area’s best hard rocking acts, including Epoch of Unlight, Ohms, Anemoia, and others.
Betor Fest at the Hi Tone (March 30)
Betor Fest, the annual fundraising concert for the harm reduction non-profit A Betor Way, has quickly become one of the best days for local music and a great way to give back to a critical cause. This year’s line-up is their biggest and best yet, featuring a full slate of some of the city’s best rock acts.
