Every April, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, Calif., attracts thousands of music lovers bent on seeing their favorite acts up close and personal. Whether interested in indie groups like Bon Iver, hip-hop performers like Snoop Dogg, or genre-defying favorites like Radiohead, Coachella’s expansive lineup offers something for everyone.
The offer, however, has a hasty expiration date. Despite expanding the festival to take place over two weekends for the first time, Coachella sold out in record time, according to Gigwise. Just three hours after general admission passes went on sale Jan. 13, they were gone, causing those who missed out to desperately scour sites like Craigslist and StubHub as prices skyrocket.
Slackers, rejoice, for your pre-summer plans are not lost. Tucson has four upcoming shows featuring several of the same acts performing at Coachella, meaning their talent can be enjoyed for a fraction of the price tag, all while supporting local venues. Here’s a breakdown of shows worth marking on the calendar … and hey, better luck next year.
Childish Gambino
Actor, television writer, and comedian-turned-rapper Donald Glover is a true Renaissance man. His explosive flows are tinged with his famous sense of humor (check the reference to “The Human Centipede” in “Bonfire”), and declarations of being a role model for all the nerdy kids out there, black or white. After releasing both an EP and his first studio-backed LP in 2011, Glover has shown he has the drive to make a big impression in hip-hop.
If you go: April 10 at the Rialto Theatre. Doors open at 7 p.m.
St. Vincent
The singer-songwriter’s 2011 album Strange Mercy landed on countless “best of 2011” lists for its intricate instrumentals and ethereal vocals filled with references only intellectuals can catch. Even her most upbeat songs are tinged with hints of darkness, creating an immersive and emotional listening experience.
If you go: April 17 at the Rialto Theatre. $19 for an advance ticket. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Andrew Bird
Andrew Bird may be known in the indie circuit for his incessant whistling and near-perfect violin skills, but a closer look reveals elegantly layered and surprisingly catchy lyrics. His musical takes on science and nature are versatile, complex and always artfully crafted. Bird’s new album, Break It Yourself, will be released March 6, meaning fans can enjoy plenty of new, and old, hits at this show.
If you go: April 20 at the Rialto Theatre. $30 for an advance ticket. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Drake (with Kendrick Lamar and A$AP Rocky)
Maybe one of the most anticipated shows of the year, plan on fighting with every high school girl in the greater Tucson area (and probably dip into one or several savings accounts) if you want to snag a ticket. Despite Drake’s meteoric rise to fame, it’s his tour guests that are attracting attention. Compton-born Lamar and A$AP Rocky of New York City contributed to the underground scene (and “Purple Swag” …) of hip-hop in 2011, and have worked with Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre and Wiz Khalifa, to name a few. With spots at Coachella and well-received debut albums, expect these two to keep climbing the industry ladder.
If you go: March 4 at the Tucson Arena. Ticket price and show time TBA.
