Despite the typically mild winter weather in Southern California, the upcoming concert calendar is heating up, providing an exciting array of social opportunities amidst the flurry of holiday feasts and family gatherings. This vibrant entertainment scene ensures that music fans have plenty to keep them engaged while celebrating the season together.
Embracing the spirit of festivity, we present a diverse and exhilarating list of events tailor-made for music enthusiasts to enjoy with fellow fans, all of whom will revel in the beauty of live performances this holiday season. Our hand-picked selection features something for every taste — whether you’re a die-hard metalhead, devoted pop aficionado, or a lover of avant-garde jazz. Below is our curated guide to ten unforgettable concerts spanning from the days following Thanksgiving through the dawn of 2025.
Dawn Richard + Spencer Zahn / Zebulon / Dec. 2
As a talented modern R&B artist, Richard steps decisively away from her previous collaborations with Diddy to establish her own identity. Joined by the innovative pianist and composer Spencer Zahn, they bring to life their latest project “Quiet in a World Full of Noise,” a poignant reflection on loss and healing, showcasing Richard’s emotive vocal prowess. This performance promises to be a deeply touching evening filled with authentic artistry. — August Brown
TV on the Radio / El Rey Theatre / Dec. 4, 5 & 7
Reunited after a four-year hiatus, the pioneering New York art-rock band TV on the Radio celebrates the 20th anniversary of their monumental album, “Desperate Youth, Bloodthirsty Babes.” Their return coincides with a time filled with both hope and anxiety, drawing parallels to the band’s origins in a post-9/11 America. Expect an electrifying performance featuring iconic members Tunde Adebimpe, Kyp Malone, and Jaleel Bunton, with studio mastermind Dave Sitek unfortunately absent from these shows. — Mikael Wood
KIIS-FM Jingle Ball / Intuit Dome / Dec. 6
The annual KIIS-FM Jingle Ball serves as a celebratory showcase of chart-topping acts eager to make their mark as we approach the New Year. Fans can anticipate stellar performances featuring an eclectic mix of today’s Top 40 hits, including SZA’s genre-defying R&B, Benson Boone’s heartfelt ballads, Tate McRae’s infectious dance-pop, and Shaboozey’s unique blend of country music with hip-hop influences. This year’s star-studded lineup also includes Meghan Trainor, Kane Brown, Madison Beer, T-Pain, NCT Dream, and even Paris Hilton gracing the stage. — M.W.
Metallica / YouTube Theater / Dec. 13
While Metallica has been prominent in Southern California over the past year, their intimate concert at the 6,000-capacity YouTube Theater presents a rare opportunity to witness the legendary band in a more personal setting. This performance doubles as the biannual Helping Hands benefit concert, with the goal of raising funds for combating hunger and advancing technical education. Viewers can look forward to a night hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, with additional acts expected to round out the evening’s entertainment. — M.W.
Billie Eilish / Kia Forum / Dec. 15, 16, 17, 20 & 21
Marking a significant transition in her career, pop sensation Billie Eilish embarks on her first tour without her brother Finneas as a mainstay in her live band. She’ll grace the Kia Forum with a series of five captivating performances in support of their latest Grammy-nominated album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” the third consecutive album to achieve this feat. Finneas will make a special guest appearance as Eilish’s opener on Dec. 21, hinting at an emotionally charged reunion for fans. — M.W.
Jeff Parker ETA IVtet / Zebulon / Dec. 16-17
Jazz virtuoso Jeff Parker, celebrated for his pivotal role in the now-defunct Highland Park jazz venue ETA, returns with his exceptional quartet, the IVtet. Known for their innovative sound, this group of esteemed jazz musicians will showcase an exhilarating performance featuring tracks from their latest album, “The Way Out of Easy.” Audiences can expect a thrilling mix of improvisation and personal expression, delivered by some of the finest musicians in the city. — A.B.
Besame Mucho festival / Dodger Stadium / Dec. 21
In a move that has stirred excitement among fans, Shakira has confirmed her participation in the highly anticipated Besame Mucho festival at Dodger Stadium, despite previously postponing her 2024 tour to accommodate fan demand. Joining her on stage will be a star-studded lineup, including Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Los Tigres del Norte, and Banda MS, promising a spectacular celebration of Latin music across numerous stages. The festival will feature an array of notable artists such as Ivy Queen, Juanes, Café Tacuba, Caifanes, Los Tucanes de Tijuana, and Carlos Vives, who was recently honored as person of the year at the Latin Grammys. — M.W.
X / The Observatory / Dec. 27
The iconic punk band X, who have been instrumental in shaping the SoCal punk scene for over fifty years, are set to deliver a holiday performance that fans won’t want to miss. With their latest album “Smoke & Fiction” marking a poignant farewell, this Christmas show comes with the added significance of potentially being one of their last appearances. It will be an emotional night of nostalgia as attendees celebrate a legacy that has profoundly impacted the music landscape. — A.B.
Latin Mafia / Hollywood Palladium / Jan. 22
The De La Rosa brothers, hailing from Mexico, have captured attention with their debut album “Todos Los Días Todo El Día,” which recently earned them a nod as a new artist at the Latin Grammys. Blending urbano, trap, R&B, EDM, and indie influences, they’re poised for stardom following successful performances at Coachella and Camp Flog Gnaw. Their recent listening party in Mexico City, which attracted 18,000 fans, suggests that they are on the brink of a major breakthrough in the United States. — A.B.
Jamie xx / The Shrine / Jan. 23
Prepare for an unforgettable night when Jamie xx takes the stage. The talented producer and former member of the xx has outdone expectations with his latest release, “In Waves,” which celebrates the vital connection between music and joy. His infectious energy and masterful mixing guarantee that audiences will dance the night away to uplifting tracks like “Baddy on the Floor,” turning January’s chill into pure warmth and excitement. — A.B.
How does Mikael Wood view the role of benefit concerts in fostering community engagement through music?
**Interview with Mikael Wood – Music Critic**
**Interviewer:** Thanks for joining us, Mikael! There’s quite an exciting lineup of concerts coming up in Southern California. What do you think makes this particular concert calendar stand out?
**Mikael Wood:** Absolutely! There’s a unique blend of nostalgia and freshness in this lineup. With TV on the Radio celebrating the 20th anniversary of “Desperate Youth, Bloodthirsty Babes,” and Billie Eilish taking a significant step in her solo career, fans are in for a memorable experience. Each performance resonates with a deep connection to the artists’ journeys, which is something that audiences really cherish.
**Interviewer:** It does seem like a nostalgic moment, especially with TV on the Radio’s return in a world that feels a bit uncertain, echoing their origins. Do you think this will enhance their performance?
**Mikael Wood:** Definitely! Artists often draw upon their past and the socio-political climate when they perform. For TV on the Radio, revisiting that seminal album during a time filled with hope yet anxiety creates a poignant atmosphere. Fans can expect an electrifying performance that’s as much about the music as it is about the message.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of messages, Metallica’s intimate concert at the YouTube Theater is also quite special, especially as it doubles as a benefit. How important do you think events like this are for both the artists and the community?
**Mikael Wood:** Very important! Benefit concerts not only emphasize the artists’ commitment to social issues, but they also foster a sense of community. It’s a reminder that music can make a difference. Given that it’s hosted by someone like Jimmy Kimmel, it brings a further level of excitement and engagement for the fans.
**Interviewer:** With such a diverse array of performances, from Metallica to the KIIS-FM Jingle Ball, how do you feel this reflects the current music scene?
**Mikael Wood:** The eclectic mix showcases the vibrancy of the music scene today. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s pop, R&B, metal, or jazz. It illustrates the idea that music is a universal language, and these events create moments for fans to connect over shared interests, regardless of genre.
**Interviewer:** It certainly seems like music lovers have a lot to look forward to this season. Any last thoughts on why these live performances are so crucial during the holidays?
**Mikael Wood:** The holidays are typically about togetherness and celebration, and live performances create a communal experience that makes these moments all the more special. They provide an avenue for fans to escape the hustle of holiday stress and instead immerse themselves in the joyous energy of live music. It’s an essential part of the holiday spirit!
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Mikael! It sounds like the upcoming concert season will be unforgettable for many.
**Mikael Wood:** Thank you for having me! I can’t wait to see how it unfolds.
