Live music in Washington, DC

Franklin Hall hosts a recurring music quiz presented by Sporcle, with two sessions offered to give participants multiple chances to play.

Sierra Hull, a standout in bluegrass and Americana, brings virtuosic mandolin work and heartfelt songwriting to the spotlight. A seven-time IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year and six-time Grammy nominee, she recently released A Tip Toe High Wire, her first independent album, featuring collaborations with Béla Fleck, Tim O’Brien, and Aoife O’Donovan. Recognized with four GRAMMY nominations, the record leans into tradition while pushing ahead with fresh ideas. Hull has appeared on NPR’s Tiny Desk and The Kelly Clarkson Show and has shared stages with Alison Krauss, Eric Clapton, Sturgill Simpson, Slash, and Robert Randolph. She also holds trailblazing honors as the first woman to have a Gibson signature mandolin and is a recipient of the Tennessee Governor’s Distinguished Arts Award.

An all-ages show brings together Oakwood, Camping in Alaska, and Empty Parking Lot. Based in Austin, Texas, Oakwood is an emo trio formed in 2013, featuring Mat, Noah, and TJ, whose early releases recently found a new audience online and led to a tour in 2025 that sold out. Their forthcoming album, Blurred Away, recorded with Phil Odom and mastered by Grammy winner Will Yip, channels grief and emotional unease into cathartic, melody-driven songs that nod to Algernon Cadwallader, Jimmy Eat World, Title Fight, and Jets to Brazil. Also on the bill are Camping in Alaska from Huntsville, Alabama and Empty Parking Lot from Chicago, Illinois.

Hosted by the Hellhounds, this blues jam features a house band that starts things off with a short set of traditional blues, vintage rock and roll, and R&B. After the warmup, the stage opens to jammers, and the band returns with a brief finale to close the night. The Hellhounds are a blues and roots influenced quartet with Jim Kennedy on vocals and guitar, Jim TerMaat on guitar, Neal 'Bam' Feldman on drums, and Charles Soloman or Spencer Hardy on vocals and bass.

Hosted by Mufasa Verde, this weekly open mic at The Pocket is free and designed to let performers shine. The stage is set with a complete backline that includes a drum kit, high quality lighting, and an on-site audio engineer, all within a supportive community. Limited advance spots are available online, and there is also a walk-in lottery for performers. Space is limited and can fill quickly. The front desk does not manage sign-ups, and questions are handled by email, with updates shared on social media.

At The Birchmere, the Italian guitar quartet 40 Fingers showcases four guitars in tight interplay for a crossover program built on fingerstyle finesse, original arrangements, and vivid visual storytelling. Formed in 2017, the ensemble of Matteo Brenci, Emanuele Grafitti, Enrico Maria Milanesi, and Andrea Vittori has attracted a global audience with hundreds of millions of online views, including more than 120 million on YouTube. Their interpretation of Bohemian Rhapsody earned official praise and a share from Queen, boosting their worldwide profile. Collaborations have included Andrea Bocelli, Matteo Bocelli, Tory Kelly, and Andy Summers of The Police, with a fresh take on Bring On The Night among their notable projects.

As part of Hispanic Heritage Jazz Month at Blues Alley with an Argentine spotlight, Valeria Stewart offers a performance that blends Argentine and broader Latin American roots with her American influences. The program includes music from her award-winning release Raíces | Roots on Antidote Sounds, pairing original Spanish-language songs with cherished classics from Cuba and Argentina. She also previews her forthcoming World & American Roots project, On a Wing, a primarily English collection that expands into folk, roots, and global sounds. The result is an evening of storytelling that explores heritage with depth and warmth. She appears with her full band, featuring Kevin Dudley on lead Spanish guitar, Eugenio Ibarz on double bass, Jason Walker on percussion, and Grey Jacks on piano and harmonies, with a special appearance by Argentine bandoneón virtuoso Emmanuel Trifilio, evoking the nostalgic character of Buenos Aires and infusing the repertoire with the spirit of tango. Two show options are available.

Black Cat presents a performance by Seattle’s Damien Jurado with St. Yuma. Jurado, a veteran singer and songwriter, is the artist behind Reggae Film Star, his 18th full-length and the second release on his Maraqopa Records label. The album’s twelve songs blend dreamlike vignettes with personal detail and a filmic mood, created with multi-instrumentalist Josh Gordon and engineer Alex Bush at Sonikwire in Irvine, California. The sound ranges from romantic AM radio vibes and 60s psychedelia to energetic rock and roll, Latin-tinged rhythms, and left-of-the-dial atmospherics, with strings, bass, and piano underscoring his distinctive voice. This is an all-ages show.

Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs perform at Warner Theatre with special guest Sarah Lee Guthrie. Doors open before the performance. For ticketing and event questions, contact the Warner Box Office at WarnerBoxOffice@LiveNation.com. For premium seating information, reach Maryclaire Griffin at MaryclaireGriffin@LiveNation.com or call 202-626-8255.

Cabaret Voltaire appears at The Howard Theatre as part of a final tour through the United States and Canada. This all ages event offers tickets priced between $40 and $45.

A complimentary outdoor show is set for Wilson Plaza in the rear courtyard of the Ronald Reagan Trade Center building.

Robin Trower appears at The Birchmere for a concert from a British guitarist whose career stretches over six decades. His path runs from a pivotal role with Procol Harum to solo success with the 1974 release Bridge of Sighs, alongside chapters of collaboration and time spent in occasional supergroups. His later work continues to show fresh ideas, including the recent album No More Worlds To Conquer, a title that reflects a lifetime of milestones while affirming that his creative pursuit continues.

Country Dance Night at Ballston Quarter features a beginner-friendly lesson to start, followed by open social dancing. The lesson focuses on Country Swing or Two Step, and the social portion includes Country Swing, Two Step, El Paso, and line dances. No partner or prior dance experience is needed. A $15 cover includes both the lesson and the social dance. Parking options include an on-site paid garage and metered street parking. Proceeds support Inspira Dance and its work bringing high-quality dance programs to Title 1 public schools.

The Telescreens bring a high energy live show to DC9 Nightclub, delivering an electrifying performance made for dancing. This talented band sets the stage for an unforgettable night.

4th Street Underground, a bold, rebellious band from Arlington, returns to Westover Market Beer Garden with an eclectic blend of rock, rhythm, and blues. The show spans three hours of live music at this neighborhood gathering place. There is no cover charge.

The Matches, from Oakland, California, celebrate the 20th anniversary of their album Decomposer with an all ages show. This event marks a milestone for the band and the album.

Eric Darius brings his high-energy stage presence and signature leap to The Birchmere with a fresh, contemporary take on jazz that blends elements of R&B, hip hop, funk, pop, and more. A Billboard chart-topping American saxophonist, songwriter, producer, educator, and performer, he continues to push his sound forward. His single titled Too Good 2 Let Go from an upcoming album held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Smooth Jazz chart for multiple weeks, reflecting his evolving vision. Raised in a Caribbean-influenced musical family, his path began early, including a performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival at age 11 with Sonny LaRosa and America’s Youngest Jazz Band. He played over a hundred shows a year as a teenager, recorded his first album at 16, and stepped onto the global stage with his 2004 major-label debut Night on the Town. Honors followed, including Debut Artist of the Year from Smooth Jazz News, seven No. 1 singles and 20 Top 10 entries on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart, SESAC Top 10 Jazz Artist of the Year, Citril Starz Awards recognition across multiple categories, Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival’s Artist of the Year, and the BEATS Best Artist award from Smooth Jazz Network. He has performed alongside GRAMMY Award-winning artists such as Prince, Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, David Foster, George Benson, Bob James, Wyclef Jean, Marcus Miller, and Lalah Hathaway, appeared on television programs including The X Factor and Mob City, runs his SagiDarius Music label, and serves as host for the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival, Florida Smooth Jazz Weekend, and Smooth Jazz Europe’s River Cruise festivals. This performance highlights a career defined by innovation, accolades, and a deep commitment to music education.

Enjoy a monthly DJ swing dance at Cherrydale Volunteer Fire Department that begins with a short beginner lesson led by Caitlin and Robert, then transitions to an open dance with DJ music. The atmosphere is casual and low pressure, no partner is needed, and it is a great chance to practice and build confidence. Admission is $10 at the door, payable by cash or check only.

Two tribute bands share the stage at The Hamilton Live for an evening celebrating Radiohead and The Smashing Pumpkins. No Surprises, the DMV’s tribute to Radiohead, returns with faithful, atmospheric performances that span the band’s guitar-driven and experimental periods, including selections from The Bends, OK Computer, Kid A, and Amnesiac. The Siamese Dreamers, a tribute to The Smashing Pumpkins, make their Hamilton Live debut with towering riffs, layered guitars, and dynamic moods inspired by Siamese Dream and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. The front row of tables and chairs will be removed to create a general admission pit, and some seated areas may have obstructed views. For wheelchair or ADA accommodations, please contact the box office in advance at (202) 787-1000.

A special screening honors 40 years of Little Shop of Horrors, hosted by Ellen Greene, who originated the role of Audrey on stage and later starred in the film, making a rare in-person appearance at The Lincoln Theatre. Exclusive meet and greet packages will be offered with an autographed item and photo opportunities. The 1986 sci fi musical comedy directed by Frank Oz follows florist Seymour Krelborn and the carnivorous plant he names Audrey II, whose growing hunger brings attention to his Skid Row shop while forcing him to balance his feelings for coworker Audrey with the creature's lethal appetite.

Zouk and Lambada light up the DC Metro area with a new monthly social from the team behind the Zouk Heat Festival. This multi room inspired experience blends high energy and relaxed vibes so you can connect, move, and ease into the music at your own pace. Each social features a guest instructor, dynamic music, and a welcoming dance floor with the signature Zouk Heat feel. The gathering takes place at Inspira Dance inside Ballston Quarter. Parking is straightforward, with free street options nearby and a garage where rates start at $1 for the first three hours, payment on arrival is required, and convenient access is available from level G3 in the green section. The venue is spacious with quality floors, is Metro accessible via a covered tunnel, and is surrounded by many restaurants and bars. This is planned as a recurring monthly series, typically one to two times per month. Tickets will be released soon.

FFab & The Skulls deliver a powerful rock set fueled by gritty guitar work, tight rhythms, and an electrifying stage presence built for a live crowd. This show spotlights the band’s original songs alongside reworked covers, celebrating the spirit of intense rock and musicianship on stage. Expect an engaging atmosphere from start to finish. Admission is free.

Presented by Imagine, this evening at St. Mark's Episcopal Church- Capitol Hill features multi-instrumentalist and producer Masaru Higasa with vocalist Pepper Proud alongside British-Portuguese songwriter Nessi Gomes. Higasa and Proud shape a distinctive blend that balances masculine and feminine expression, creating melodic soundscapes with instruments drawn from around the world. Gomes writes with a quiet intensity, guiding listeners into the fullness of life where beauty sits beside fear, longing is allowed to remain unresolved, and the darker corners are given space rather than shame.

Colt Ford brings his blend of country twang and rap grit to the water with City Cruises Live, turning a yacht into a floating stage set against the San Diego skyline. The experience is high energy, with a full buffet and an open bar available on board. For an elevated option, VIP access offers prime deck seating, early boarding, and a meet and greet with Colt Ford.

Eric Roberson appears with Alex Harris at The Birchmere for an evening of R&B and soul from a fiercely independent voice. A GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, producer and Howard University alum, Roberson has long championed creative freedom, writing and producing for artists such as Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele and Vivian Green while leading sold out tours. DJ Jazzy Jeff has praised him as one of the standout singer songwriters of this era. Celebrating more than two decades of self-released work, Roberson continues to share the stories and sounds that define his catalog. Highlights include the hopeful, swiftly made 2020 album Hear from Here, which also showcases moments of rap and a collaboration with Brian Courtney Wilson, and the single Lessons that drew inspiration from his marriage. His commitment to education and community includes teaching at Berklee College of Music and welcoming fans into his creative world through The Process. Career milestones include two nominations in the Best Urban or Alternative Performance category at the GRAMMY Awards and early recognition from BET, marking a path defined by independence and sustained creative output.

Candlelight presents a tribute to the music of Hans Zimmer at National City Christian Church, creating an intimate atmosphere with hundreds of candles and a live, multi-sensory concert experience in Washington, DC. Performed by the Listeso String Quartet, the program features Time from Inception, This Land from The Lion King, Zooster’s Breakout from Madagascar, Honor from The Pacific, Tennessee from Pearl Harbor, A Dark Knight from The Dark Knight, suites from Man of Steel, Wonder Woman, and Gladiator, Cornfield Chase from Interstellar, Discombobulate from Sherlock Holmes, and a Pirates of the Caribbean suite. The performance runs about 65 minutes. Doors open one hour before the music begins and there is no late entry after the start. This event welcomes ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned within each zone based on arrival order. This concert is presented as a tribute and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artist, estate, or any official representatives.

London’s TWISTED BEAR makes its long-awaited Washington, D.C. debut at Icon DC, bringing the brand’s trademark blend of high-energy dance music and a bold, masculine vibe. Launched in 2015, TWISTED BEAR has grown into a global series, staging events in more than 20 countries and 50 cities with international guest DJs at the helm. The booth features longtime international resident Paul Coals from London, whose three decades behind the decks span vocal house and gritty tech sounds. Joining him for his first appearance with the brand is DJ and producer Jason James, a familiar name across the bear and leather scene in the U.S. and beyond. Expect a stacked stage with dancers including Archie, marking a D.C. debut, and Rocky and Indigo, both making their first TWISTED BEAR appearances, with more performers to be announced. The night is hosted by Dominus and supported by Mistr, Beefyboy, and Growlr. Gear is encouraged but not required, so bring the look that feels right. The crowd welcomes bears, cubs, pups, chubs, bearded boys, leathermen, musclemen, hot daddies, circuit boys, and LGBTQ friends. A coat check will be available. No refunds.

Capital Chill returns to The Renegade for a second round, delivering a high energy mix of rock, alternative, and popular favorites that keeps the dance floor moving all night. This follow up show features a full set crafted for dancing and a lively crowd. Admission is a $5 cover.

Friday and Saturday feature weekly karaoke at Cuates Grill Alexandria in Old Town Alexandria. Admission is free and the event is family friendly. Choose from thousands of songs in English, Spanish, and other languages, with late night food and drinks available.

This free, family friendly music showcase at Penn Social DC celebrates the end of the summer season with live sets by students from School of Rock DC/Cleveland Park in a professional concert setting. Expect energetic performances that highlight months of practice, teamwork, and musical growth. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Set times will be shared closer to the event.

The Pocket hosts a songwriter night featuring Amy Jay, Remi Goode, and Eli Lev in a round style performance where the artists take turns sharing original music up close. New York City indie folk artist Amy Jay is on the road with her album Mnemonics, released on Mother West and streamed over a million times. After headlining across the Northeast, she returns to the DMV with songs that are thoughtfully written and emotionally resonant. Nashville’s Remi Goode, whose background spans classical guitar and choral music, is touring her debut album. She pairs a clear voice with the warm tone of a nylon string guitar, creating an intimate sound noted by Glide Magazine. Listeners who enjoy Madison Cunningham, Suzanne Vega, or Phoebe Bridges may find her set especially appealing. Triple Wammie Award winner Eli Lev aims to bring people closer through song. His writing draws on travel and self discovery to deliver heartfelt, grounded music. He describes his style as Indie Folk Poptimism, offering an uplifting and approachable blend with emotional connection. Fans of Noah Kahan, Jason Mraz, and Jack Johnson may be particularly interested. Together, these three artists offer a contemporary indie folk showcase presented in a shared format that highlights distinct voices and perspectives.

DC Jazz Jam continues its salute to longtime regulars from earlier venues Dahlak and The Brixton with a featured night led by guitarist Adam Fluger. A familiar presence at the jam, he spent years as the dependable Fifth Sunday guitarist. Rescheduled after a February snow day, this session happens at Haydee’s with no cover. The jam is open to sit-ins, and a keyboard will be available for participants who need one.

Eric Roberson appears with Alex Harris at The Birchmere for an evening of R&B and soul led by a celebrated independent voice. A GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, producer, and Howard University alum, Roberson is widely recognized as a trailblazer in indie R&B, with writing and production credits for artists such as Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele, and Vivian Green, along with a history of headlining sold out tours. His body of work spans more than a dozen solo albums and includes projects like Hear from Here, created to lift listeners’ spirits, and the single Lessons, sparked by meaningful moments in his life. Beyond the studio, he has opened his creative journey to fans through The Process and has taught at Berklee College of Music. Expect candid storytelling, warm vocals, and the artistic freedom that continue to shape his music.

An artist returning to the festival will share songs from the newest album, DIVING IN. Stage details are to be announced.