With over 50 live music venues, Minneapolis is home to a wide range of diverse live musical performances. Satisfying all age groups, music artists from across the country come to the lively, upbeat city of Minneapolis to spread their music and good spirits. Larger venues such as the Target Center and Xcel Energy Center seat approximately 20,000 people and are more commonly used for popular music acts. Smaller venues, like The Varsity, tailor to more acoustic-based artists. Whether you're interested in a fist-pumping, jam-packed venue or a smaller, more intimate venue, Minneapolis has the concert for you. Below are a few must-sees in Minneapolis for the upcoming fall music scene.
1. Skillet - Sep. 30, Skyway Theatre
Formed in the city known for being the heart of music, Skillet is an American Christian rock band from Memphis, Tennessee. Originally just a duo of John Cooper and Ken Steorts, many other band members have come and gone. Now, the group is made up of four members: John Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger, and Seth Morrison. I have been to the Skyway Theatre and can honestly say that it's one of my favorite venues because of the smaller, more intimate environment. Skillet at Skyway will definitely be one to go down in the books for those who are ready and willing to rock out!
2. Gavin Degraw & Andy Grammer - Sep. 30, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
These two heartthrobs have joined their music together in a tour that satisfies lovers of both pop and blue-eyed soul. Degraw's vocal and artistic talent have taken over radios nationwide since his 2011 album, "Sweeter." Starting as a street performer on the Santa Monica Promenade, Andy Grammer has evolved into a popular artist who has reached tens of millions of people worldwide. The mind-blowing work ethic both artists have portrayed throughout their journey has inspired those who started where they once were, several years ago. The individual artists are outstanding, but together, they are a can't-miss opportunity.
3. Kanye West: The Saint Pablo Tour - Oct. 10, Xcel Energy Center
All generations have been exposed to one of the most infamous hip-hop artists, Kanye West. As a Grammy-winner, West is known for his outrageous statements and his broad musical palette. While polishing his first demo, he produced tracks for Jay-Z, another well-known rapper. He released "The College Dropout" in 2004 and sold 2.6 million copies, which led to him winning Best Rap Album. His most recent album, "The Life of Pablo", has reached top charts worldwide in the hip-hop family and will continue to gain the attention of listeners.
4. Sia - Oct. 13, Target Center
Sia, the Australian singer-songwriter, became well-known for her singles "Chandelier" and "Elastic Heart." She has topped worldwide charts, becoming a very well-respected modern artist. In an attempt to remain anonymous, she is iconic for hiding her face on cameras. No more hiding Sia; the Target Center is ready for you and your top hits.
5. Eli Young Band - Oct. 22, Skyway Theatre
Mike Eli and James Young first met at the University of North Texas and very quickly began playing guitar together in their dorm rooms. Under the name Eli & Young, they began their musical careers with acoustic performances at local bars. With the addition of Jon Jones and Chris Thompson, the group opened for Miranda Lambert in 2003. After their first few songs, including "When It Rains," were released, country music fans were automatically and inevitably hooked. This group has taken over the country music genre and will take over Minneapolis at the Skyway Theatre this fall.
6. Diplo - Oct. 21, Myth
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For those who enjoy a mixture of music genres, Diplo is a perfect choice. Combining sounds of reggae, electronic, dance, alternative/indie, and more, Thomas Wesley Pentz offers something for everyone. The musician was born in Mississippi. After film school, he moved to Japan where his DJ demo would gain recognition, ultimately landing him a label with Big Dada Records. Since then, his alter-egos Major Lazer and DJ Switch have brought him much attention and recognition as one of the fastest developing DJs today.
7. Jon Bellion - Oct. 30, Myth
A hidden gem, Jon Bellion has rapidly gained the attention of younger generations with his mixture of hip-hop, indie, pop and R&B music. After his song, "The Monster," was included on Eminem's 2013 album, it topped the charts in twelve countries. He just released his own album, "The Human Condition", and has accumulated millions of hits worldwide.
8. Good Charlotte - Nov. 1, First Avenue
Joel and Benji Madden founded their pop-punk/post-grunge band in 1996. Inspired by the Beastie Boys, they formed a band with a '70s punk theme and sentimental ballads. In 2004, the band released their album "The Chronicles of Life and Death", which reached the number 3 spot on billboards. The group's sound has evolved over time, but they have announced that during their current tour, they are returning to their punk roots to put on a show of their lifetime.
9. The Fray & American Authors - Nov. 22, Orpheum Theatre
The American rock band from Denver is pairing up with American Authors at the Orpheum Theatre in November to deliver an unforgettable performance. The Fray's debut album, "How to Save a Life", was certified double platinum. American Authors is an alt-rock band who first met at Berklee College of Music. Their self-empowered music has thrived in the rock industry and will surely compliment The Fray while they're touring together this fall.
10. Stevie Nicks & The Pretenders - Dec. 6, Xcel Energy Center
Singer and songwriter Stevie Nicks is known for her work with Fleetwood Mac, along with her solo career. She has collectively produced over 40 "top-50 hits" and has sold more than 140 million albums. Her pop-rock sound is highly respected by older generations, but has also made a mark on the younger generations as well.
Whatever genre of music you prefer, Minneapolis has it. This fall's lineup is filled with hundreds of great artists that are thrilled to put their music out there for the entertainment of their listeners and fans here in the Twin Cities!
