Your local D.C. music venues are bringing in a huge variety of music over the next few weeks. From a local take on funk to a little something for the metalheads —and even a bit of Latin jazz— there is bound to be something for everyone.
On The Hill:
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The Rock & Roll Hotel presents Aztec Sun, a D.C. based group touring in support of their debut EP Set You Free. This self-branded “Funk with soul” band brings a live show filled with their upbeat and energetic mix of retro 70s funk, soul, and jazz. They were even named the Best Local Original Band by the Washington City Paper. Aztec Sun will perform on February 10, so get your tickets now.
If you were not fortunate enough to grab tickets to the Rick Astley show or if a quiet Valentine’s Day dinner isn’t your thing, the Rock & Roll Hotel has you covered. Common Kings skillfully combine pop, rock, reggae, and R&B influences to create music that fully encompasses their personalities and their passion for music. Vocalist Sasualei “Jr King” Maliga truly brings the music together with his powerful, skillful voice. Catch Common Kings on February 14. Buy tickets here.
Around DC:
Rick Astley is never gonna give you up because he’s back and headed right to D.C. Since his start three decades ago, Astley has made waves in pop-culture with his immediately recognizable voice and chart topping singles, such as the infamous “Never Gonna Give You Up.” He went on to release a number 1 album, 50, in 2016 and is now touring around the world once more, even selling out all of his UK shows to kick things off with a bang. Though this show at the 9:30 Club on February 14 is unfortunately sold out, it is definitely worth mentioning. Who doesn’t love the thought of a good Rick-Roll to round out your Valentine’s Day?
Black Cat is bringing in one for the metal lovers this time around, hosting Darkest Hour on February 17. Darkest Hour hails from D.C. and has gained a following since their formation in 1995. The band will be showcasing their melodic metal at this hometown show as they prepare to release their ninth studio album in March. Get your tickets here.
Prepare yourself for some Latin jazz that you won’t forget. Buika, with a recording career spanning over 16 years and multiple Grammy nominations under her belt, has definitely made her mark on the world. Her blend of musical influences, ranging from jazz, to reggae, to pop, all topped off with flamenco flair, will take over the Howard Theater on February 18. Get your tickets now!
The musical styling of Stephen Kellogg pushes traditional genre boundaries with a mix of Americana, rock, and folk, and has garnered a lot of attention because of it. This is showcased in his most recent album South, West, North, East, as each section was recorded in a different location with different influences. Kellogg has performed alongside acts such as Train and OAR and has played in countries around the world, but is coming to D.C. next. Armed with his trusty guitar, Stephen Kellogg will play at The Hamilton on February 22. Get your tickets here.
Just Announced:
Rock & Roll Hotel
- 4/13: Diet Cig
- 4/28: The Wild Reeds
- 4/29: Pinegrove
UStreet
- 4/12: Kate Tempest
- 4/28: Lewis Del Mar
- 5/18: Unlike Pluto
Black Cat
- 3/23: Boo Seeka
- 3/24: Minus The Bear
9:30
- 4/15: Biffy Clyro
- 5/3: The Maine
- 5/4: Highly Suspect
Lincoln Theater
- 5/16: Pixies
Check back in two weeks for more live shows coming to a venue near you!