Live music in Wake Forest, NC

Enjoy a vibrant salsa get-together at Westwood Cocktail Bar & Lounge. The night starts with a salsa class, then shifts into an open dance floor where you can practice moves and connect with other dancers. All experience levels are welcome. Cover charge is $12.

SHABOOZEY brings the Outlaws Never Die Tour to Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, NC.

Fools For The Fleeting, Katie Pruitt's tour, arrives at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Durham’s own Ally J brings live music to a rooftop setting alongside specials on food and drinks. Expect $6 glasses of rosé and bubbly and a $14 Girl Dinner with a tray that includes guac and chips, flavored popcorn, pickled veggies, and local cheeses. City views and craft cocktails set the scene, and there is no cover charge.

This event offers an evening of soul-stirring songs as singer songwriter Katie Pruitt performs live. The concert highlights her expressive vocals and emotionally resonant lyrics for a memorable experience.

Every Wednesday, Cuya Latin Cocktail Bar + Music Garden hosts a Latin dance night featuring a free salsa and bachata lesson to kick things off, followed by social dancing with music by DJ Kemo. Admission is a $10 cover. Tickets can be purchased online through the provided link or at the door. Cocktails and tapas are available.

A candlelit tribute to neo-soul arrives at The Rialto in Raleigh, offering a multi-sensory concert that celebrates iconic tracks in an intimate setting. The program is set to include selections such as Good Days by SZA, Ex-Factor by Lauryn Hill, Don’t Touch My Hair by Solange, Adorn by Miguel, Thinkin Bout You by Frank Ocean, Purple Rain by Prince, Smooth Operator by Sade, Untitled (How Does It Feel) by D’Angelo, Redbone by Childish Gambino, The Best Part by H.E.R., You Don’t Know My Name by Alicia Keys, and End of the Road by Boyz II Men. This experience is a tribute and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artists, their estates, or official representatives. Guests must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, and seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone. Multiple sessions are available.

Drivin N Cryin brings the Crushing Flowers Tour 2026 for an evening rooted in the band’s signature blend of Southern rock grit, folk storytelling, and hard charging rock and roll. Formed in Atlanta in 1985, this long running American rock group earned a reputation for electric live shows and thoughtful songwriting. Led by singer songwriter Kevn Kinney with bassist Tim Nielsen and drummer Dave Johnson, the trio rose to national prominence with influential albums and radio staples including Fly Me Courageous, Honeysuckle Blue, Straight to Hell, Build a Fire, and Scarred But Smarter. Fly Me Courageous reached Gold certification and remains a cornerstone of their catalog. Across four decades they have continued to tour and record, evolving while cultivating a loyal, multigenerational audience. Their influence stretches beyond their own releases, as Straight to Hell found renewed life through covers and collaborations. Recognition includes induction into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and Kinney’s induction into the Milwaukee Music Hall of Fame. Their touring history spans shared stages with The Who, Hootie & The Blowfish, The Black Crowes, ZZ Top, Soul Asylum, Blackberry Smoke, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jason Isbell, along with appearances on Rock Boat, Outlaw Country Cruise, and Moon Crush. Their latest album, Crushing Flowers, returns to the original three piece format and favors clarity, chemistry, and feel over excess. It is a confident, back to basics statement that underscores honest songs, emotional weight, and the sound of a band still fully engaged.

Chris Pierce showcases American roots music forged over more than twenty years. With eight solo albums, numerous side projects, and an extensive record of guest appearances, his catalog reflects a wide-ranging career. His songs amplify unheard voices and explore the overlooked corners of the American dream.

andmoreagain presents a live performance at Stanczyks in Durham, NC featuring Jenny Owen Youngs and Northcote with Julia Barfield. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of show, and tickets are on sale now. After a decade without a full-length release, Jenny Owen Youngs returns with Avalanche on Yep Roc Records, a project shaped by years of change that include global touring, a number one co-write, a popular podcast, a book deal, and extensive placements in film and television. Produced by Josh Kaufman and co-written with collaborators including S. Carey, Madi Diaz, Peter Silberman of The Antlers, and Christian Lee Hutson, the songs blend bright pop sensibilities with soft, atmospheric layers while reflecting on loss, resilience, and growth. Julia Barfield, a 22-year-old singer songwriter from Athens, Georgia, was raised in the North Georgia foothills and draws on folk and Americana influences. Her 2025 debut EP, Keep to Me, offers southern storytelling that holds both heartache and hope, delivered with a warm voice that feels gentle and assured.

Experience a candlelit tribute to the music of Queen and ABBA at The Rialto in Raleigh, featuring the Lyricosa String Quartet. This multi-sensory concert celebrates iconic hits in an intimate glow, offering a fresh way to hear favorites from both catalogs. The program includes selections such as Dancing Queen, SOS, Money, Money, Money, Voulez Vous, Bohemian Rhapsody, I Want to Break Free, Killer Queen, Waterloo, Super Trouper, Mamma Mia, Don't Stop Me Now, We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, and Gimme Gimme Gimme. The performance runs 60 minutes, doors open an hour before the music begins, and there is no entry after the start. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned within each zone on a first come, first served basis. Guests must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a tribute performance and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the original artists, their estates, or official representatives.

Proton Jones brings a live set to Salty Turtle Beer Co: Raleigh, showcasing warm, expressive vocals and seasoned guitar work. With more than three decades of performing, he is a familiar presence in the local music community, sharing a catalog of personal, reflective songs. Expect an intimate, emotionally resonant performance that highlights his experience and his ability to forge a strong connection with listeners.

Presented by andmoreagain, Stanczyks Music Bar in Durham, NC hosts an evening with Upon Your Dead Body, with When the Sun Sets and Letters to Part also on the bill. The South Texas outfit delivers emo marked by heartfelt intensity and a theatrical flair, weaving spoken word moments, driving melodies, Midwest emo touches, and math rock precision into a vivid set, drawing influence from La Dispute, Coheed and Cambria, Say Anything, Hail the Sun, and The Used. Letters to Part, an ambient-leaning alternative band from Orlando, blends shoegaze, emo, post-hardcore, and indie into reflective, dreamlike songs. Their catalog includes the debut album A Human Curse from 2017, the Mad’ouk EP in 2020, a 2023 live recording tracked at Red Lion Audio, the 2023 single Breathe, and the 2025 EP Bloom, which is paired with videos for The Weight I Let Go and With Your Heart. Tickets are $18 in advance and $22 on the day of the show.

SAYER McSHANE brings an acoustic and electric set of rock, blues, and soul to Aloft Raleigh. The performance takes place in the WXYZ Lounge overlooking Hillsborough Street.

This event raises emergency funds for grandparents raising grandchildren through the Emergency Blessing BAGS initiative. The afternoon includes food, games, raffles, and spirited gospel performances. It features Kim Person, a five-time Stellar Awards nominee, along with more entertainment.

Celebrate summer car cruises in a spacious, shaded lot where music sets a relaxed vibe. A 50/50 option adds to the fun, and there is a chicken restaurant just across the street for convenient refreshments.

At Salty Turtle Beer Co: Raleigh, Mysti Mayhem presents a mix of covers and original songs in a soulful, blues-influenced style. A North Carolina vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter with more than 20 years of stage experience, she trained professionally with Bo Diddley.

Word Jazz brings Actors Improv's blend of on the spot theater and live music to Sharp Nine. Drawing on Ken Nordine's 1957 album of the same name, the show builds scenes from improvised monologues alongside a five piece band. Audience suggestions spark each moment, and off the cuff songs emerge throughout. Musicians Ricky Bloomfield on reeds, Rob Ladd on drums, Robbie Link on bass, Glenn Mehrbach on piano, and Scott Sawyer on guitar perform with Actors Improv, the South's longest running improv company.

Lincoln Theatre hosts JGBCB at Kings in Raleigh for an after party following Gov't Mule and Ziggy Marley. The music continues with JGBCB after the main concert wraps.

City Soul Cafe returns with an open mic night devoted to poetry, music, laughter, and creativity at terminal8bar_lounge. Grand Champs hosts while DJ Supreme keeps the music flowing, shaping a welcoming atmosphere where the community gathers to speak, connect, and feel. Expect surprise moments as fresh voices take the stage. Kickback Q's provides the food and Chusby Whusby brings the desserts, rounding out an experience defined by artistry, camaraderie, and signature City Soul energy.

American rock singer-songwriter Michael Blakey brings a solo performance to Burnt Barrel, channeling influences from 90s rock, grunge, classic rock, and folk punk. With incisive lyrics, unfiltered energy, and propulsive guitar work, his storytelling-driven songs travel from far-off places to the inner landscape of the mind. He is also known for acoustic renditions of classic rock and 90s favorites, offering a fresh spin on familiar tracks.

Explore traditional shape-note singing with selections from The Sacred Harp (2025) and The Shenandoah Harmony. New participants are welcome, and loaner books are available. The session takes place in the Visitor Center at Mordecai Historic Park. Accessibility information is available.

As the weather cools, the patio at Saints & Scholars in Raleigh offers a comfortable spot to unwind. Enjoy lunch with live music and ease into a relaxed Sunday Funday on the patio.

Mark and Tristan present a father and son act that mixes music, comedy, and lively back and forth with the audience. Part piano showdown, part request-driven party, and part quick-witted fun, the show is built on spontaneity with no preset setlist. Tristan showcases standout piano technique, while Mark delivers powerful vocals, guitar, harmonica, and sharp humor. The performance stretches across genres and generations, touching everything from classic rock to pop favorites, with surprise picks sparked by the crowd. Expect an upbeat, high-energy experience where the moment shapes the music and the vibe stays light, playful, and dance friendly.

Rise Against performs live in concert at Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Sunday Salsa Social, now in its 18th year since 2009, offers a welcoming night of Latin dance. It starts with a basic salsa lesson, then continues with social dancing. The music mix focuses on salsa and bachata, with a small number of cha cha, kizomba, merengue, and cumbia tracks. Admission at the door is $10, or $8 for active military and students with ID. Children 17 and under are free with an adult, or $5 if attending alone. Most DJs accept Venmo and credit cards, but bring cash to be sure, as card payments may include an added fee. The DJ roster typically rotates by week. Expect Abuelo Salsero Jack Wolf on first Sundays, Salsa Mike, also known as Michael Delucia, on second Sundays, Pedro Paz on third Sundays, and Monte Alban, Eliuth Cruz Lopez on fourth Sundays. When there is a fifth Sunday, the rotation cycles among them. The schedule is usual and subject to change. For questions, contact Jack Wolf at jackhwolf49@gmail.com or 919-245-8393 or 743-208-5497.