With the state of Tennessee being the central hub for all kinds of music anywhere encompassing its major music cities, it’s no doubt that Knoxville contributes to the state’s musical reputation. UT’s students are always seeking the music experience unmatched by live music and concerts. Whether it’s with 21,677 other people in Food City Center or in a crowded backyard, here are some of the most anticipated concerts in and around Knoxville to bring some sound to the spring semester.
Feb. 15: Moon Taxi
The Nashville-based indie/alternative rock band, Moon Taxi, plans to play three shows in February beginning in Knoxville and ending in their own backyard in Nashville. In order to celebrate 15+ years together, the band released their sixth studio album “Set Yourself Free” on June 9, 2023. The group will be playing at the Mill and Mine joined by The Hip Abduction. The album creatively and cohesively crosses genres and styles, making for a unique performance and unmatched sound.
Feb. 17: Briston Maroney
After announcing his second album, “Ultrapure,” on Sept. 22, 2023, the alternative/indie artist plans to visit the Mill and Mine. Maroney will be joined by indie pop/rock singer Phoebe Go. “Ultrapure” ventured deeper into Maroney’s personal life than ever, making a live event an opportunity for fans to draw closer to the artist on a personal level. Maroney is well known for his gratitude toward his audience, often emphasizing a general takeaway through music. Whether you’re a fan or looking to try out a new style of music, there is no doubt that anyone in the crowd will be welcomed.
Feb. 23: Riley Green
After being in the country music industry for nearly 10 years, 35-year-old country singer Riley Green announced that he’s indeed only getting started with his “Ain’t My Last Rodeo Tour.” The tracks of the album were inspired by hard work, outdoor life and family, all of which Green himself claimed he is excited to join the full set. Joined by Ella Langley, the tour will kick off on Feb. 22, with Knoxville being only Green’s second stop at Food City Center. There’s no doubt that the energy here in Knoxville will set the bar high for the remainder of the tour.
March 16: Dan + Shay
Only one day prior to releasing their fifth studio album “Bigger Houses”, iconic country music duo Dan + Shay announced their “Heartbreak On The Map Tour” on Sept. 14, 2023. The duo will visit Food City Center joined by Ben Rector and Hailey Whitters. The tour was titled after the third track of the album, which explores the journey to find true happiness through the unsatisfying void material things bring shifting to contentment with simpler, meaningful things. Setting the stage for the big picture of the tour, the duo hopes to leave the audience with a changed perspective.
April 4: Sam Hunt
Following his “Summer On The Outskirts Tour” in summer of 2023, Hunt plans to continue “The Outskirts Tour” into 2024. Hunt will be visiting 17 cities, including Knoxville at Food City Center. Hunt has been long praised for his innovative and extravagant performance abilities. One of the most exciting influences to the positive tour reviews Hunt receives are his special guests. This year, Hunt will be joined by fellow big name country artist, Brett Young, as well as Lily Rose. With nothing but praise for his shows, this is surely a musical journey you won’t want to miss.
April 6: Flipturn
An alternative/indie band, Flipturn, plans to hit the road again this spring as they embark on their “Something More Tour.” Playing the biggest headline shows of their career, the group plans to visit the Mill and Mine along with special guest Richy Mitch & The Coal Miners. With their unique indie sound that makes you feel like you’re living in an endless summer, this anthemic sound is sure to have you feeling like you’re still on spring break.
April 16: Tyler Childers
Less than a month after releasing his new album “Rustin’ in the Rain,” country singer-songwriter Tyler Childers announced his “Mule Pull ‘24 Tour” to serve as a celebration for the new addition to his discography. The tour will kick off in April with Childers visiting Knoxville at Food City Center in the beginning part of his tour. Childers’ unique neotraditional country style emphasizes acoustic backgrounds and traditional vocal styles, making for an unforgettable sound and experience.
April 20 and 21: Ashley McBryde
A month prior to releasing the album in which the tour was titled after, country singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde announced “The Devil I Know World Tour.” McBryde has made a big name for herself in the county music industry as a three-time Academy Award winner, Grammy winner, and member of the Grand Ole Opry. This is her fourth studio album that explores the lessons that life teaches us. Through her tour, McBryde plans to introduce her fans to more variations of what defines country music. McBryde will be performing at the Tennessee Theater, a rather unique spot for country music in concert that will make this performance extra special.
April 26: Tim McGraw
Among some of the most anticipated tours by country fans is country-music legend and three-time Grammy winner Tim McGraw’s “Standing Room Only Tour.” Joined by country singer-songwriter Carly Pearce, McGraw will visit Food City Center. With a career spanning more than three decades, this tour promises to be an unmatched production featuring the artist’s biggest hits of the past and top tracks from his 17th studio album “Standing Room Only.” Throughout his long standing career, McGraw has developed a deep relationship with his fans and holds them at highest priority when planning his shows. There’s no doubt that the artist is as excited for the show as the fans. If you’re a long-time fan of country music, this event is a can’t miss.
May 9 and 10: Zach Bryan
Ending this list with the most anticipated concert among UT students, Zach Bryan will visit Food City Center as part of his “Quittin Time Tour.” The folk-country artist will be joined by special guests Levi Turner and The Middle East. Bryan announced the tour on Aug. 28 of 2023, shortly following the release of his self- titled fourth studio album only three days prior. Bryan initially planned to play one show at Food City Center, but after selling out one night, another show was added the following night. Both shows were marked as sold out however, some ticketing sites have resale tickets posted. For any Zach Bryan fans still looking to go, tickets won’t come cheap, but there’s no doubt the concert will be unforgettable.
While these shows are just some of the headliners, there’s never a shortage of musical events in Knoxville. For more events check out event calendars at venues such as Food City Center, the Mill and Mine and more.
