The 2026 Oakland music scene is kicking off strong with some must-see events this month. First up, the legendary Oakland funk band Tower of Power is taking over Yoshi's for the next three weekends. Four of the shows are already sold out. The 22nd annual Living Jazz "In the Name of Love" concert at the Paramount Theatre will feature the music of another Bay Area icon, Sly and the Family Stone.
Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian will be back in the US for more tour dates this spring. Dates begin March 14 in Albuquerque and include Tulsa, Dallas, Austin, New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville ( Big Ears), Newport News, Philly, and more. The tour concludes in NYC at Cathedral of St. John the Divine on April 7, which is with Rosie Flores. Tickets for all just-announced shows go on sale Friday, December 12 at 10 AM local time.
Garbage, Starcrawler: We just love this doubleheader, which, of course, is topped by iconic alt-rock vocalist Shirley Manson and her pals in Garbage. These headliners, known for such smash hits as "Stupid Girl" and "Only Happy When It Rains," are out on the road in support of their recently released eighth album, "Let All That We Imagine Be the Light." Joining Garbage on Oct. 23 at the Mountain Winery is none other than Starcrawler, an awesome L.A. glam-rock outfit
Even if Google describes his genre as "soul indie," Ginger Root's discography and aesthetic are littered with welcome references to Japanese city pop, a genre popularized in the '80s. That's especially true of songs like "Over the Hill" and "Nisemono." Some originals feel more Mac DeMarco/Boy Pablo-y, like "Weather." There's obviously the project's biggest hit "Loretta," which is an easily digestible indie funk pop. Through it all, Ginger Root is upbeat, intricate, and bursting with color.
Marvin was born in Kingston, Jamaica. He moved to London as a child and started out playing in various London-based bands. In America, playing with blues and R&B legends like T-Bone Walker, Billy Preston and Ike and Tina Turner. On Feb. 14, 1977, Marvin was invited to join both Stevie Wonder's band and Bob Marley and the Wailers. He accepted Bob Marley's offer and debuted with the band on the acclaimed "Exodus" LP as lead guitarist.
As music fans themselves, the members of Phantogram know how meaningful a show can be when you're not only watching the artists perform but interacting with them in a relaxed environment. Sarah and I don't think of ourselves as like these big, like rock stars or anything like that, admits Carter. But if one of my favorite bands was playing this really intimate thing that I got to go to and even get a chance to talk to them, I think it would be awesome. So in a way, I guess we were giving back to the fans.
Stu Mackenzie expressed enthusiasm while introducing the band at Forest Hills Stadium, noting that this was their third consecutive year performing at the venue with different setups.
"Kylie Minogue's Tension tour blends visually arresting performances with nostalgic hits, showcasing her generosity and ability to engage audiences across different generations."