April is the beginning of concert season for many, and what an opening we have in Birmingham. Some of the biggest names in music are coming into the city this month. Janet Jackson. Stevie Nicks. Lil Wayne. Smokey Robinson. Just to name a few - and the Magic City is showing no signs of slowing down. Local favorites that continue to gather more fans in Birmingham and beyond are also playing some great events this month. It’s an all-around good time to be a live music fan in Central Alabama. Here are a few of the shows we are looking the most forward to.
K Camp at Zydeco (Tuesday, April 4)
It might cost a little “Money Baby” but K Camp at Zydeco on Tuesday, April 4th, is going to be worth every penny. The singer and rapper is sure to start the month off right at this concert. Don’t miss out!
Stevie Nicks at the Legacy Arena (Wednesday, April 5)
Music royalty will be in Birmingham on Wednesday, April 5th. That’s when Stevie Nicks rides into town to mesmerize thousands at the Legacy Arena. Few musicians are so widely known for their powerful vocals, making this a once-in-a-lifetime Magic City experience.
John Paul White and Alabama Symphony Orchestra at Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center (Thursday, April 6)
John Paul White has continued to build on his mark of being one of Alabama’s most cherished musicians. The former member of the iconic duo The Civil Wars has gone on to forge an exciting solo career that has featured plenty of Birmingham stops. Nothing can quite compare with the Thursday, April 6th, performance that will be alongside the Alabama Symphony Orchestra at the Alys Stephens Center.
Will Stewart + Kaydee Mulvehill at The Upstairs at Avondale (Thursday, April 6)
Two of the absolute best musicians (both talent and personality-wise) in the Magic City will be playing together at The Upstairs at Avondale on Thursday, April 6th. Kaydee Mulvehill and Will Stewart both have a wonderful catalog of tunes to get familiar with before this all-star throwdown.
Adam Hood w/ Taylor Hunnicut (Friday, April 7)
It’s going to be a Southern songwriter spectacular at Zydeco on Friday, April 7th, as two of Alabama’s most beloved musicians - Adam Hood and Taylor Hunnicut - showcase their vast array of beautiful works. It’s going to be a good night to fall in love with good music.
The Cancellations, ZYK, and The Sick F*cks at The Nick (Saturday, April 8)
There’s nothing quite as Birmingham-esqe like catching a show at The Nick, especially when you’re going to see a local group as talented as The Sick F*cks. This Saturday, April 8th, show also includes sets from rising bands The Cancellations and ZYK.
Los Tigres del Norte en Concierto at The BJCC (Sunday, April 9)
Los Tigres del Norte have millions of fans across the globe, but it’s residents of Birmingham and surrounding areas that will get to enjoy the band’s music on Sunday, April 9th. I’ve seen many friends in our city belting out the words to Los Tigres del Norte song, and can only imagine how fun and loud the event will be. The group will be coming to The BJCC for what is going to be a very fun concert.
REO Speedwagon at Alabama Theatre (Saturday, April 15)
REO Speedwagon is a significant part of the American fabric. The band’s songs are still steadily heard on the radio and have been a part of life’s soundtrack for millions - including many in Birmingham. The legendary group will be at the Alabama Theatre on Saturday, April 15th, for one beautiful night of music.
Null & Bulging Collaborative Tape Release at Saturn (Sunday, April 16)
Two of Birmingham’s favorite bands are coming together for a collaborative tape release! Null and Bulging are not only gifting us with a new release, but are also celebrating with a concert at Saturn on Sunday, April 16th, that will also feature B. Sonnier, Terminal Man, and Thousandaire.
Orville Peck at Iron City - Sold Out (Thursday, April 20)
Yes, this is a sold out show. But we wouldn’t feel right if we didn’t highlight Iron City’s impressive sell out April run that includes this Orville Peck concert on Thursday, April 20th. Peck has been a fast-rising star and his show in Birmingham is going to be one heck of a night.
Smokey Robinson at Alys Stephens Center (Friday, April 21)
April truly is the month of music legends in the Magic City, and the Alys Stephens Center is playing a big role. Perhaps the highlight of the month would be the arrival of Smokey Robinson on Friday, April 21st. History will be in the building that evening, and we’d recommend finding a seat for it.
Janet Jackson with Ludacris at the Legacy Arena (Saturday, April 22)
Yes, another legend. Janet Jackson has more hits than Tuscaloosa sports hero Deontay Wilder, and will be showing them all off at the Legacy Arena on Saturday, April 22nd. This felt like a huge deal for the city the moment the show was announced, and the addition of Ludacris only adds to the excitement.
Lil Wayne at Iron City - Sold Out (Monday, April 24)
This is another sold out Iron City show that we just have to acknowledge. Lil Wayne is one of the biggest stars of our time. His performing at Iron City is a little mind blowing, but the musician wanted to embark on a more intimate concert series with fans in a few select series. It’s going to be one special evening on Monday, April 24th.
The Upstairs Comedy Series Presents James Austin Johnson at Avondale (Wednesday, April 26)
Wes Van Horn and The Upstairs Comedy Series have been on a very impressive booking run over the last few months. Saturday Night Live actor James Austin Johnson’s performance at The Upstairs at Avondale on Wednesday, April 26th, is an exclamation mark on this truth. You’re not going to want to miss this one.
Project Pat at Zydeco (Friday, April 28)
Project Pat will be representing Three 6 Mafia and Memphis music in Birmingham on Friday, April 28th. The Zydeco show is sure to be a fun time, with Magic City musicians including Q Dot Davis and Frank Luke adding to the fun.
Tedeschi Trucks Band at The BJCC (Saturday, April 29)
The Tedeschi Trucks Band brings some of music’s most talented enthusiasts to the stage together each night they perform. They will be coming to The BJCC on Saturday, April 29th, to ensure that a good time is had by all who attend.
Umphrey’s McGee at Avondale (Sunday, April 30)
My first Umphrey’s McGee experience was in the Ozark Mountains at what would become the last ever Wakarusa Music Festival. It was somewhat of a religious experience, and I’m still searching for a similar experience today. Sounds like the most convenient option would be attending the band’s show at Avondale Brewing on Sunday, April 30th!
