As the weather outside gets warmer, there are many more opportunities to get out and see artists perform. From the rhythmic rap of Tyler, The Creator and Kendrick Lamar to the peppy pop music of Tate McRae, there is something coming to North Carolina for everyone!
Tyler, The Creator: From his breakout song, “Yonkers” to his most recent album, “Chromakopia”, Tyler, The Creator has always been authentically himself. His newest album chronicles the challenges of adulthood, while providing insight into his childhood. It unpacks his anxieties and beliefs in his unique style of rap with beautiful instrumentals and harsh lyrics, featuring large artists such as Daniel Caesar, Lil Wayne and GloRilla. The album also brought careers of various, smaller artists into the limelight such as Doechii, who won a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Tyler, The Creator is coming to the Lenovo Center on July 12. Make sure to catch him while he is coming through Raleigh!
Beabadoobee: If you love dreamy pop vocals with a touch of grunge, you have probably heard of Beabadoobee. Beatrice Kristi Ilejay Laus, known as Beabadoobee, is a Filipino-British singer-songwriter. Known for her more indie-focused songs, “the perfect pair,” “Glue Song” and “Death Bed (Coffee for Your Head),” Beabadoobee’s sound also consists of ‘90s grunge-inspired instrumentals, showcasing her versatility among genres. Her newest album, “This Is How Tomorrow Moves”, displays a variety of sounds. From the softer indie of “Tie My Shoes” and “Girl Song” to the grungier sounds of “California” and “Post”, the album has songs for everyone. Coming to the Asheville Yards venue on June 11 and the Red Hat Amphitheater on June 16, Beabadoobee is a must-see.
Kendrick Lamar & SZA: If you are up for a hike, Kendrick Lamar and SZA are coming to Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on May 3. Lamar is one of the biggest names in rap right now, performing at the Super Bowl in 2024. His feud with Drake spiked major drama and led him to release his Grammy award-winning song, “Not Like Us” in April 2024. Later that year, he released a surprise album, “GNX” which contained many hits, including the song “luther” with SZA. The song pairs Lamar’s smooth hip-hop flow with SZA’s silky R&B sound, creating a heavenly melody. Other hits from the album include “tv off”, which features an orchestral backtrack paired with Lamar’s elegant and insightful lyricism. A ticket for Kendrick Lamar with SZA will ensure an unforgettable experience filled with melodic rap and sweet R&B.
Teddy Swims: On May 17, Teddy Swims is coming to Red Hat Amphitheater. After his 2023 song, “Lose Control,” went viral on social media for its unique blend of genres, including soul, pop and country, Swims began to gain popularity. People on TikTok praised his recognizable voice and appreciated the vulnerability and storytelling of the song. Swims has stated that his favorite part of performing is creating a safe place for himself and the audience to feel as though they are together throughout the experience. This valuable perspective will make his performances even more unforgettable.
Tate McRae: With a background as a dancer, Tate McRae’s music career kicked off on YouTube, where she posted her original music. When her song “One Day” received 40 million views, she self-released the song as her first single. Since then, she has been known as one of the top pop artists, with a distinctive voice and vast range. Her songs vary from upbeat to mellow, having themes of heartbreak, reflection and growth. Her newest album, “So Close To What,” released on Feb. 21. The release date is a hint to the album’s meaning, which shares how McRae felt turning 21. To McRae, the album represents the feelings of being a woman while being in the media’s spotlight, a wrestle between the new joys of adulthood and the anxiety of societal expectations. From the mix of prominent drumlined faster songs, and more instrument-based, slower songs, Tate McRae’s newest album showcases a mixture of vulnerability and happier moments. Tate McRae is coming to Raleigh’s Lenovo Center on Oct. 25 and Charlotte’s Spectrum Center on Oct. 24. Make sure to catch her at least once while she’s in North Carolina.
There are many artists to get out and see during spring this year, each one having a unique sound that makes them even more exciting to see. As more artists plan tours in North Carolina this year, be sure to stay on the lookout for more fun concerts with well known musicians.
