Winter may contain the most wonderful times of the year, but the season isn’t typically known for concerts. The cold weather and holiday season mean that many musicians are hunkering down and recording or traveling to other countries to entertain fans there. It seems that many acts are making Birmingham a last-of-2023 however, and we’re grateful for the impressive show selections. Folk, electronic, hip-hop, jam bands, and more will all be coming to town just like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve. Here are a few of the shows we are most looking forward to. 

Buku & G-Rex at Saturn (Friday, December 2nd)

The WAKAAN team continues to bring some of the most exciting electric acts to the Magic City. This continues at Saturn on Friday, December 2nd, as Buku and G-Rex bring their impressive assortment of lights and organized sounds to make sure December gets started on the most fun of notes. We’d highly recommend checking out this show. 

Rod Wave at The BJCC (Monday, December 5th)

Rod Wave has been making major waves over the last few years. Since he first found fame in 2019, the young musician has been expanding his base with his unique blend of hard tales and soulful melodies. Rod Wave will be bringing this experience to The BJCC on December 5th - so get your tickets ready! 

Johnnyswim at Iron City (Wednesday, December 7th)

The folk tunes by Johnnyswim have long been a hit in the Magic City, and the duo will be returning with another Christmas concert to the famed Iron City venue on Wednesday, December 7th. If you are looking for a wholesome live show experience, this is the one to check out. 

Taylor Hicks Moondance at The Lyric Theatre (Friday, December 9th)

One of Birmingham’s most famous voices will be leading a musical experience of a lifetime at The Lyric Theatre on Friday, December 9th. Taylor Hicks won millions of fans through his American Idol appearance and subsequent success and will be playing songs by Van Morrison and Christmas classics for some of his biggest supporters to help close out the year. 

Little Raine Band at Saturn (Monday, December 26th)

There really ain’t no party like a Little Raine Band day-after-Christmas party! This was a tradition amongst my friends and myself pre-pandemic and it’s safe to say that a good (sometimes rambunctious) time was always had. It’ll be great to see Birmingham’s finest jam musicians bring the tradition back on December 26, 2022.

Scotty ATL with Veto and Playlist Academy (Thursday, December 29th)

Scotty ATL has been one of the most exciting names in Southern hip-hop to keep up with over the years. The musician continues to put out great releases while also jumping into - then taking over - the grill game in recent years (including providing a custom set to Issa Rae for her wedding). ATL will be bringing his “Show Ya Grill” tour to Zydeco on Thursday, December 29th to bring the perfect blend of his two crafts to the Magic City. 

Cover image of Taylor Hicks. Taken by Shelley’s Signature Photography