The Desert Sun’s weekly Hot Picks column highlights unmissable live performances in the vibrant Coachella Valley and surrounding areas
Before setting foot in Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, it’s essential to understand the parking payment methods, what items you are permitted to bring, and key essentials you definitely should not overlook before attending an event at the arena.
HOT PICK
Saturday
Rock: If you’re a fan of classic rock, chances are you’ve boogied to timeless hits like “Takin’ Care of Business” and “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet,” both memorable anthems from the Canadian rock sensation Bachman-Turner Overdrive. Other noteworthy tracks like “Let It Ride,” “Roll On Down The Highway,” and “Hey You” solidified their status in the music landscape of the ’70s.
Randy Bachman, the visionary behind the band, initially departed from the Guess Who in 1970 to form what was first known as Brave Belt, alongside his brother Robbie, bassist C.F. “Fred” Turner, and guitarist Chad Allan, who also hailed from the Guess Who, as detailed on Allmusic.com.
Bachman-Turner Overdrive is set to take the stage on Saturday at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, promising a night brimming with nostalgia and energy.
If you go: 8 p.m., Saturday, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. Tickets range from $82 to $135. For more details, visit fantasyspringsresort.com.
BEST BETS
Friday
Pop: British singer-songwriter Kate Nash burst onto the music scene with her debut album “Made of Bricks,” released in 2007, featuring a fresh mix of pop and rock. Her tracks navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence, tackling issues like body image, peer pressure, and personal growth with relatable authenticity.
With three subsequent albums showcasing her artistic evolution, Nash made a triumphant return in June with “9 Sad Symphonies,” her first release in six years. Also known for her role as Rhonda “Britannica” Richardson in the Netflix series “GLOW,” she has made a mark in the television world with appearances on other notable shows like the comedy horror series “Truth Seekers.”
Nash will grace the stage on Friday at Pappy and Harriet’s, inviting fans to experience her engaging performance firsthand.
If you go: 8 p.m., Friday, Pappy and Harriet’s, 53-688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown. Tickets are priced at $38.75. More info can be found at pappyandharriets.com.
Rock: Everclear frontman Art Alexakis is a true testament to resilience. He has not only faced a challenging upbringing—marked by his father’s abandonment—but has also triumphed over his battle with addiction, themes that have resonated through much of the band’s poignant lyrics, including hits like “Santa Monica,” “I Will Buy You A New Life,” and “Wonderful.”
Despite navigating personnel changes within the band and a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2019, Everclear remains a cherished name in rock music, continuing to create and tour fervently.
The band, featuring Riverside native Freddy Herrera on bass, will perform this Friday at Agua Caliente Casino in Cathedral City, offering fans a night of powerful music and emotion.
If you go: 8 p.m., Friday, Agua Caliente Casino, 68-960 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. Tickets available for $50. Visit aguacalientecasinos.com for additional details.
Saturday
R&B: In the ’90s, Ginuwine made waves with his seductive R&B style, particularly with tracks like “Pony,” filled with sultry romantic imagery. Yet, behind the smooth beats lay deeper narratives, exemplified in songs like “Differences,” which confronted his struggles with grief following the deaths of his parents, and “Last Chance,” depicting a man’s quest for love and personal maturity.
The iconic track “Pony” has seen a revival, appearing in various films and television shows, including “Magic Mike XXL” and “Magic Mike’s Last Dance,” while Ginuwine’s recent stint on “The Masked Singer” in 2023 has further amplified his contemporary appeal.
Catch Ginuwine performing on Saturday at the Morongo Casino Resort and Spa, where fans can expect an evening rich in nostalgia and allure.
If you go: 8 p.m., Saturday, Morongo Casino Resort and Spa, 49-500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon. Tickets start at just $46.50. More details available at morongocasinoresort.com.
Brian Blueskye covers arts and entertainment for the Desert Sun. Reach him at brian.blueskye@desertsun.com or connect on Twitter at @bblueskye.
**Interview with the Desert Sun’s Music Editor, Sarah Mitchell**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Sarah. The Desert Sun’s Hot Picks column is really building excitement for live performances in the Coachella Valley. Can you tell us about the significance of highlighting events like Bachman-Turner Overdrive this Saturday?
**Sarah Mitchell:** Absolutely! Our Hot Picks column aims to spotlight unforgettable live performances that capture the essence of the Coachella Valley’s vibrant music scene. Bachman-Turner Overdrive holds a special place in classic rock history, and their songs continue to resonate with fans. Their concert is not just about the music; it’s an experience steeped in nostalgia that brings together generations of listeners.
**Interviewer:** That’s wonderful. With events like this, what should attendees be mindful of before heading to venues like Fantasy Springs Resort Casino?
**Sarah Mitchell:** It’s crucial for concert-goers to be well-prepared. Knowing about parking payment methods is essential, as well as what items are permitted. For instance, fans should check the venue’s rules on bags and other items to avoid any last-minute issues. Planning ahead can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience!
**Interviewer:** Great advice! I also see Kate Nash is performing at Pappy and Harriet’s this Friday. What can fans expect from her show, especially given her unique journey in the music industry?
**Sarah Mitchell:** Fans can expect an engaging and heartfelt performance from Kate Nash. She’s known for her raw lyrics and relatability, particularly around themes like adolescence and self-acceptance. After her successful return with “9 Sad Symphonies,” this show will be a fantastic opportunity to see her artistic growth live. Her presence from both the music and acting worlds makes it even more special.
**Interviewer:** And what about Everclear? How do you think their performance will resonate with the audience, especially considering Art Alexakis’s personal story?
**Sarah Mitchell:** Everclear’s music has always drawn from Art’s personal experiences, weaving themes of resilience and overcoming struggles into their lyrics. Their hits like “Santa Monica” are still relevant today, and Art’s authenticity really connects with audiences. It’ll be a night of powerful music, shared stories, and hopefully, reflections on endurance and recovery, which many fans can relate to.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Sarah! It sounds like a fantastic weekend ahead for music lovers in the Coachella Valley.
**Sarah Mitchell:** It definitely is! We encourage everyone to check out these shows and immerse themselves in the live music experience. It’s a vibrant part of our community that shouldn’t be missed.
