Each Wednesday, WTTW News producer Josh Terry presents must-see live music shows from indie rock to jazz, country, hip-hop and more.
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Wednesday, May 7:
Ichiko Aoba, Gia Margaret at Thalia Hall. Tickets.
The acclaimed Japanese songwriter enlists the local folk and ambient artist.
Dick Texas, Fran, Dorothy Carlos at Empty Bottle. Tickets.
The Detroit songwriter Valerie Salerno headlines this bill on the heels of Dick Texas’ new LP “All That Fall.”
Etran De L’Aïr, Rich Ruth at Lincoln Hall. Tickets.
This long running Nigerien band boasts face-melting guitar theatrics and psychedelic grooves.
Youth Lagoon, Kahleah Lee at Outset. Tickets.
The Idaho-raised songwriter has a new album called “Rarely Do I Dream.”
Thursday, May 8:
Allison Russell, Kara Jackson at Vic Theatre. Tickets.
Get there early for the local songwriting talent Kara Jackson.
Anna McCellan, Brent Penny at Judson and Moore. Tickets.
Sip venue-made whiskey and bourbon as you take in the Nebraskan songwriter and storyteller.
Gang of Four at Bottom Lounge. Sold out.
An iconic post-punk outfit makes an appearance at the West Loop venue.
Friday, May 9:
Sturgill Simpson at Allstate Arena. Tickets.
Expect three hours of jammed-out Americana.
Pet Symmetry, PONY, Jimmy Montague at Sleeping Village. Tickets.
The local emo and indie rock supergroup has a new LP out called “Big Mileage.”
Lambrini Girls, Party Dozen at Empty Bottle. Sold out.
The U.K. punk group is one of 2025’s buzziest acts so far.
Saturday, May 10:
Uwade, Moyana at Schubas. Tickets.
This Nigeria-born songwriter has a stunning voice and has collaborated with Fleet Foxes.
Freak Heat Waves, Jack J at Hideout. Tickets.
The genre-fluid Canadian group returns to Chicago.
Sunday, May 11:
Kaleta and Super Yamba Band at Hideout. Tickets.
A joyful and mesmerizing dance party hits a cozy venue.
Squid, FearDorian at Thalia Hall. Tickets.
One of the best live acts currently touring is this experimental U.K. post-punk outfit.
Monday, May 12:
Sasami, Mood Killer at Lincoln Hall. Tickets.
This New York artist enlists Clairo for a single on her new album “Blood On the Silver Screen.”
Tuesday, May 13:
Jake Xerxes Fussell, Sam Moss at SPACE. Tickets.
Gentle, guitar-led folk and Americana.
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