Kyle
Mar. 22, 7 p.m. | House of Blues
We love to see the evolution of a XXL Freshman. Kyle, previously known as SuperDuperKyle, rose to prominence with “iSpy,” a 2017 Billboard-charting single that featured Lil Yachty. In the years that followed, Kyle was stereotyped as a highly energetic, friendly rapper. His albums existed as sounding boards for how he navigated the tribulations of his newfound fame. The newly independent artist has since emerged as a mature musician, particularly in his autonomy of image and identity. In an interview with Billboard, he describes his current self as “R&B Kyle.” The moniker showcases his personal and professional fulfillment as he sings about love over French house-inspired beats and melodic production. Get to know R&B Kyle live. Buy tickets.
Buddy Guy
Mar. 22, 8 p.m. | House of Blues
Contemporary music would not exist without the blues. Blues, Americana, folk, and gospel are the building blocks of American music. And musicians who have been at it as long as the legendary Buddy Guy are well deserving of their flowers. For over 50 years, the blues guitarist has played alongside some of music’s greatest talents and inspired one-of-a-kind performers like the late Jimi Hendrix. At the start of the pandemic, Guy launched a 24 hour online blues radio station to support himself and his contemporaries after his Chicago club had to close up amid COVID concerns. But we all know blues sounds and feels better in person, and Guy is now back on the road. Plus who does not want to see a legend one last time? Get tickets.
Tate McRae
Mar. 23, 7 p.m. | The Echo Lounge & Music Hall
In summer 2020, Tate McRae was a high school senior with one of the most popular songs on TikTok. The song “You Broke Me First” elevated the teenager into viral pop stardom. Although McRae had previous experiences with virality on YouTube and So You Think You Can Dance, the single earned her international attention and an RCA contract. Now is the perfect opportunity to witness her star power in person. Purchase tickets.
New Edition, Charlie Wilson, and Jodeci
Mar. 24, 8 p.m. | Dickies Arena
Backstreet Boys, 98 Degrees, NSYNC and your favorite boy band could not compete with New Edition and Jodeci on their worst day. The 1980s R&B group modernized the Jackson 5 archetype through choreography, fashion, and hip-hop influence. If you are unfamiliar with the group, please Google—or just ask your mom. After getting a bit of ’80s history, go to your favorite aunt to inquire about Jodeci, one of the most popular R&Bs groups from the era when New Jack Swing was king. From the gospel trained vocals to the cutting edge streetwear fashions, Jodeci made R&B cool. If you do not believe me, look at their fanbase: Jay-Z, J. Cole, Cardi B, and Drake. Then, we have Charlie Wilson, a.k.a Uncle Charlie, the lead singer of The Gap Band. He holds the Billboard record for the “most no.1s by a male artist in the chart’s 27-year history.” It’s all worth a trip to Fort Worth. Buy tickets.
Devy Stonez, Yak The Mack, Wasteey Monroe, NinoSoSupremey & BigZay
Mar. 25, 8 p.m. | Lofty Spaces
Vibes Texas celebrates four years with a lineup of the city’s best underground musicians. From Devy $tonez to Yak The Mack, the night showcases North Texas’ vibrant hip-hop scene. In addition to music, the event will feature streetwear brand For Them Good People, lifestyle brand 360 Home Goods, and art from Shalltisha Williams of We Are Art. Sensei Blue serves as the DJ for the night, so be ready to groove. Get tickets.
Yola
Mar. 25, 8 p.m. | The Studio at the Factory
Over the past 20 years, Yola has been a supporting musician who played behind Nashville’s biggest stars. In between gigs, the Bristol-born country-soul singer would perform DJ gigs at music festivals as big as Glastonbury. In 2020, the English singer-songwriter received critical acclaim for Walk Through The Fire, her debut album, which was nominated for four Grammys. This year, she earned a slew of nominations for best American Roots song and best Americana album. Her success is proof of divine timing. Go see her live. Buy tickets.
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