Congratulations to everyone who spent their whole Chicago summer lounging by the lake, frolicking outside and living every moment to the fullest (quite possibly at the 35 summer concerts we suggested back in May), while the rest of us spent the past four months binging 90 Day Fiancé next to the air conditioner.
But while summer may have passed us by, it’s not too late to make this autumn one to remember — starting with our 32 must-see concerts headed to Chicago this fall.
Joyner Lucas at House of Blues, September 19
Because what’s cooler on a Monday night — more 90 Day Fiancé or seeing one of the most talked-about rappers perform live?
The Killers at United Center, September 21
Because it’s time we all agree they’re one of the best rock bands performing right now.
Ben Platt at Wintrust Arena, September 23
Because he’s way more than just Evan Hansen.
Deadmau5 at Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, September 23
Because, after the past two years, you have more respect than ever for someone who has barely taken off their mask.
Death Cab for Cutie at The Salt Shed, September 24
Because you’re still working through some big feelings from high school.
Mary J. Blige at The United Center, September 25
Because she has 29 more Grammy nominations than the rest of us.
Father John Misty at The Chicago Theater, September 29
Because you’re still not sure if he’s a real priest or just a guy with a beard and a great voice.
Me First and the Gimme Gimmes at House of Blues, October 1
Because where else can you hear showtunes — covered by a punk band?
The Head and the Heart at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island, October 1
Because it’s the perfect occasion to cry at an outdoor venue.
Jack Harlow at Credit Union 1 Arena at UIC, October 1
Because you’re still just as hip as those teens on TikTok.
Gorillaz at United Center, October 3
Because you prefer your live concerts paired with animation.
Haru Nemuri at Metro Chicago, October 4
Because Japan’s most famous Poetry Rapper has arrived in Chicago.
Violent Femmes at Thalia Hall, October 4 and 5
Because they’re the best things to come out of Milwaukee since the invention of the cheese curd.
Iron Maiden at United Center, October 5
Because they’re so much more than just the band from Guitar Hero.
Harry Styles at United Center, October 6, 8, 9, 13 14, 15
Because with six shows at the United Center, he’s basically a Chicagoan now.
B-52s at Chicago Theater, October 7 and 8
Because you’re still not quite sure on how to get to the Love Shack.
Monica at Wintrust Arena, October 8
Because she sounds just as good live.
Regina Spektor at Chicago Theater, October 9
Because she makes you regret quitting those piano lessons in fourth grade.
Muse at Riviera Theater, October 11
Because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a stadium show in a 2,500-seat theater.
The Who at The United Center, October 12
Because they’ve been touring since 1964 and you still haven’t seen them perform enough.
Amadeus Live at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, October 14 & 15
Because you’ll get to brag to your coworkers Monday that you spent the weekend at the Symphony.
Lizzo at United Center, October 16
Because it’s always Bad Bitch O’Clock.
Marcus Mumford at Chicago Theater, October 24
Because it’s officially flannel shirt season.
Santigold at Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, October 24
Because if nothing else goes right in 2022, at least we got a new Santigold album.
Dessa at Beat Kitchen, October 26
Because you have two chances in one night to see one of the Midwest’s best rappers.
Shrek Rave 2 at Bottom Lounge, October 29
Because you’ve been looking for a reason to break out that green face paint.
Ani DiFranco at Vic Theater on November 4
Because you like your rock with a side of politics.
Carly Rae Jepsen at Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, November 5
Because she’s come so far since “Call Me Maybe.”
Tegan and Sara at Vic Theater, November 5
Because these twins are a legendary indie duo, while you and your siblings can barely keep the group chat going.
Ty Segall at Thalia Hall, November 11
Because even the biggest music snob you know will be impressed.
Dave Matthews Band, United Center, November 15
Because last time he was in Chicago, things didn’t go so well.
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