Looking for an upbeat show to relieve your stress? Want to see a crooning singer/songwriter light up the stage with talent? New and big-name artists are set to come through Dallas this fall, and this city offers a variety of concert venues to assuage your particular music appetite. Here’s some information to aid you in picking your new concert scene.
Perhaps the most famous venue for both indie artists and huge stars in Dallas, House of Blues is one spot you have to visit sometime in your four years at SMU. Diverse events such as gospel brunches, opening shows for eclectic indie beginners and concerts with huge stars like Adele give this venue a diverse feel and an artsy vibe. With it’s many rooms, backdoor passageways, main stage and restaurant, the House of Blues rivals the performer in pleasing the crowd. Upcoming shows include Lily Allen on Sept. 15, Citizen Cope on Sept. 25, The Preatures on Oct. 7, Kodaline on Oct. 8 and Sam Smith on Oct. 9.
Elton John, Coldplay, The Police, Brad Paisley and several others have commanded the stage at our next venue, Gexa Energy Pavilion. Opened in 1988, Gexa, an amphitheater, seats 20,000 people in two different sections, the covered chair portion and on the lawn area. The beautiful fall weather right around the corner will further add to the appeal of Gexa’s outdoor atmosphere. Gexa Energy Pavilion is located at 1818 1st Ave. Upcoming shows include Kings of Leon, Young the Giant and the Kongos on Sept. 12, Zac Brown Band on Oct. 7 and Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line and Tyler Farr on Oct. 25.
Found in Deep Ellum, one of the coolest neighborhoods in Dallas, Trees presents an option for lovers of music not typically heard on the Top 40 countdowns. However, larger indie rock bands such as Arcade Fire, Radiohead and Pearl Jam played shows at Trees. Right in the heart of a sea of enticing restaurants, music and art, Trees typically appeals to those with a love of all things creative. Trees is located at 2709 Elm Street. Upcoming shows include Royal Blood on Sept. 24, Nick Jonas on Sept. 30, Vance Joy on Oct. 17 and Charli XCX on Oct. 18.
Home to Dallas’ own Mavericks and Stars sports teams, the American Airlines Center accommodates some of the biggest names in music. This grand venue holds 20,000 sports or music fans with general seating and 142 suites. If you want to experience an event and not just a concert, the AAC will satisfy your criteria. Upcoming shows include Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers (September 26), Katy Perry (October 2-3), Paul McCartney (October 13), The Black Keys (November 16), and Justin Timberlake