Recommended DC: Concerts

Recommend is part of our name so it makes sense to recommend concerts. Since we launched two years ago we’ve been shining a light on worthwhile excursions, including shows. We’re streamlining things. So here’s our recommendations for concerts in Washington, D.C. We’re going with one show per day. While there is absolutely no shortage of quality live music opportunities, sometimes less is more. 

Some of the shows are technically sold-out. But since the secondary ticket market exists, no show is ever truly sold-out.

May 8

Bad Bad Hats at Union Stage

Don Giovanni Records only releases good stuff.

May 9

Rosie Tucker at Comet Ping Pong

May 10

The Decembrists, Ratboys at The Anthem

This gets the pick because of the openers. Ratboys’ The Window was one of the best records of 2023.

May 11

Neil Young and Crazy Horse at Jiffy Lube Live

Um, Neil Young is back on Spotify?

May 12

Sean Paul at Echostage 

May 13

Hot Water Music at Howard Theatre 

May 14

Amon Amarth at Fillmore Silver Spring

May 15 

Lø Spirit at DC9

May 16

Echo and the Bunnymen at 9:30 Club

May 17, 18

Mannequin Pussy at The Atlantis

May 19

Judas Priest at MGM National Harbor 

May 20

serpentwithfeet at Union Stage 

May 21

Killer Mike at Kennedy Center

Mike is performing with the National Symphony Orchestra. I hope they play “Reagan.”

May 22

Sierra Ferrell at 9:30 Club 

May 23, 24

Tank at MGM National Harbor

May 25 

Yaya Bey at Union Stage 

May 26

Matthew Logan Vasques at DC9

The Delta Spirit frontman should please fans of The Delta Spirit. The solo stuff has a Desperacidos vibe too.

May 27

The Amity Affliction at Fillmore Silver Spring

May 28

Diljit Dodanjh at Capital One Arena 

May 29

Kacy Hill at Songbyrd 

May 30

Jeff Goldblum at Lincoln Theatre 

Did you know the guy trying to get you to rent an apartment has a band?

May 31

Dwight Yoakam at The Anthem 

May 31, June 1

Bonnie Raitt at Warner Theatre

If you’re interested in what we’ve recommended in the past, check out the Recommended DC: Concerts Archive.

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