Saba
Apr. 14, 7 p.m. | House of Blues
Saba is a founder of Pivot Gang, the Chicago independent rap collective that came of age with fellow artists Noname, Jean Deaux, and Mick Jenkins. If you’re unfamiliar, this tour is your chance for an introduction. On Few Good Things, the rapper’s third studio album, Saba draws upon the origins of the neo-soul era to construct a passionate eulogy about the tribulations of being his family’s provider. Although Saba’s narrative is common in hip-hop, the expressiveness on the standout track “Survivor’s Guilt” is a critical self analysis of being the last man standing. Purchase tickets to see lyricism in action.
Eric Bellinger and Sammie
Apr. 14, 7 p.m. | The Echo Lounge & Music Hall
This is a concert for the grown and sexy, as my mama would say. Prepare to be seduced by the duo of R&B vocalists Eric Bellinger and Sammie. For years, Bellinger wrote Grammy-winning songs for Usher and Chris Brown. He became an R&B star in his own right with New Light, his 2021 album that earned him his first Grammy nomination as a solo artist. Since 1999’s “I Like It,” Sammie has continued to woo women with guest vocals on Soulja Boy’s “Kiss Me Thru The Phone” and writing credits on This Is How I Feel, Tank’s 2012 album. Get tickets to open your heart chakra.
Beatking and Dorrough
Apr. 15, 8 p.m. | Creators Don’t Die, 2429 S. Malcolm X. Blvd.
Raise your hand if you knew of BeatKing before “Then Leave.” The 2020 single went viral on TikTok and introduced the Houston rapper to the world. However, for those of us who attended college in the mid ’00s to mid ’10s, BeatKing was a regular on the pre-game playlist. His signature tone boomed through every house party, probate season, and spring break trip. In many ways, the musician shares some regional similarities with Dorrough, the Dallas rapper who achieved mainstream success during the boogie era of the late ’00s. The two rappers will be joined by 7 The Great at Dallas Palooza in South Dallas. The Meka Jackson-hosted event is sure to be a reminder of the old house party days. Buy tickets.
DJ Kimblee, RIzkilla and Henry K
Apr. 16, 10 p.m. | Ear Hustlaz Studios, 4735 Memphis St.
Before DJ Kimblee heads to Coachella with The Chopstars, the Abilene-raised, Dallas-based DJ will headline Soun(D.) Wav for his fans at home. The night will feature special guest sets from DJ Rizkilla and Henry K with exhibitions from a selection of local artists: Lee Tabb, Kool Will, Mangtz and more. The arts and music event is only for attendees older than 21. According to my sources, a certain West Coast musician will make a special appearance during Kimblee’s set. Purchase tickets.
Summer Walker
Apr. 16 & Apr. 17, 7 p.m. | The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
I would like to personally thank Summer Walker for getting me through my recent breakup. Last year, the Atlanta singer-songwriter released Still Over It, her second studio album. It broke streaming records for a women’s R&B album and landed on “Best Of” lists through the New York Times, NPR Music, Variety and several other notable publications. The album chronicles her tragic breakup with superstar music producer London on da Track, the birth of her first child with him, and her restoration of self after losing her identity in another person. Whew. Walker will be joined by Atlanta rapper Rubi Rose (Editor’s favorite) at her Dallas tour stop. Buy tickets.
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