Arts & Entertainment
Local Live Music Recommendations for Feb. 12-18
Cymande (Credit: Dean Chalkley)
Each Wednesday, WTTW News producer Josh Terry presents must-see live music shows from indie rock to jazz, country, hip-hop and more.
Daily Chicagoan, the newsletter from WTTW News, sends these picks to your inbox each week along with more essential recommendations from our staff. Sign up here. Wednesday, February 5:
Thursday, February 13:
Babe Corner, Sports Boyfriend, Josephine at Empty Bottle. Tickets.
Two excellent local songwriters open for the Vancouver rock band.
Old Pup, Shannon Baker & the Burners, Ava Brennan at Hideout. Tickets.
The Milwaukee country-rock band celebrates the Friday release of their new LP “Spider Town.”
Friday, February 14:
Phantogram, Mejia at Aragon Ballroom. Tickets.
The synth-rock band hits Uptown.
Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol, Lip Critic, Repent at Empty Bottle. Tickets.
While not the most romantic band name, you’ll have a blast at this punk-rock show.
Stars, Lydia Persaud at Thalia Hall. Tickets.
The Canadian indie pop band celebrates 20 years of their album “Set Yourself on Fire.”
Neu Romantics, Mod Lovers, Heartbroken Rocknrollers at the Fallen Log. Tickets.
Local arts collective Hallogallo puts on a “Raveup” on Valentine’s Day.
Saturday, February 15:
Jason Isbell at Auditorium Theatre. Tickets.
The star Americana songwriter plays one of the city’s most ornate venues.
Bong Mountain, death pose, Boob Sweat, No Tagbacks at Gman Tavern. Tickets.
You might recognize a Gman bartender or two on the bill at this show.
Mdou Moctar at Space. Sold out.
The Nigerien songwriter brings his Tuareg guitar music to Evanston for two sold-out shows, one acoustic and one electric.
Monday, February 17:
TV Buddha, Bungee Jumpers, Friko (solo) at Empty Bottle. Free.
This 21+ show is a part of the Ukrainian Village venue’s Free Monday series.
Tuesday, February 18:
Jordana, Rachel Bobbit at Lincoln Hall. Tickets.
The Los Angeles songwriter is becoming one of indie pop’s best talents.
Cymande, Bathe at Metro. Tickets.
This British funk group has been active since the ‘70s.
Benjamin Booker at Subterranean. Tickets.
The Virigina-raised, New Orleans-based makes thoughtful, nostalgic rock music on his acclaimed 2025 LP ‘LOWER.’
