Singing a Different Tune

Singing a Different Tune 

Lets change gears a bit this month. I have a bit of a problem living in WNC, where music fills the air and creativity knows no bounds. That problem comes in the form of a bad ticket purchasing habit. Toward the end of the year spring dates get released and I can’t help it. Late winter and early spring bring the summer and fall dates and again, I can’t help it. It’s an easy rabbit hole to fall down because from intimate pubs to vibrant music halls, the area has something for every music enthusiast. Lets take a melodious journey, exploring some of Asheville and the surrounding area’s venues, upcoming shows, and some past events that have made WNC a music lovers dream.

Lets start with the Salvage Station. This might be my current favorite because I can get there on beautiful back roads without ever having to go through town. I get to see bands there that friends in other areas drive an hour or more into big cities to see and I just drive 15 minutes through the country and over the river. Situated alongside the French Broad, The Salvage Station is a unique venue that offers a convenient musical experience. Known for its diverse lineup, this place has hosted a wide range of artists. Just this summer the acts range from rap superstar Waka Flocka Flame to Greensky Bluegrass, and progressive rock geniuses Umphrey’s McGee. The Salvage Station is also a great place to see local talent, such as the Grammy-winning Steep Canyon Rangers, Warren Haynes, Town Mountain, Fireside Collective, and the energetic brass fusion of Empire Strikes Brass. Keep an eye out for upcoming performances, as this vibrant venue continues to bring exceptional acts to the Asheville music scene.

When it comes to iconic music venues in Asheville, The Orange Peel takes center stage. This legendary establishment has seen some remarkable performances over the years, including an unforgettable show by none other than Dave Grohl with Warren Haynes when winter weather made travel nearly impossible after the Warren Haynes Christmas Jam. What’d they do? they slipped on down the street from the arena for a pop up show at the Orange Peel. With a reputation for attracting top-tier talent, The Orange Peel has hosted an impressive array of artists. From Billy Strings to the Smashing Pumpkins, Old Crow Medicine Show, The Flaming Lips, Joan Jett, Lauryn Hill, The Beastie Boys, and many more, this venue has witnessed countless magical moments. Looking ahead, prepare yourself for a diverse lineup of both music and comedy acts that will keep you jammin and laughing throughout the year.

Tucked away in the heart of Asheville’s River Arts District and just across the river from the New Belgium brewery and The Burger Bar (Asheville’s oldest bar/doesn’t sell burgers) The Grey Eagle is an intimate venue with a rich history of showcasing exceptional musicians. Its cozy atmosphere and impeccable acoustics have drawn renowned acts from various genres. In the past, this venue has witnessed captivating performances by David Grisman, Tony Rice, Tom Morello, Tyler Childers, Luke Combs and many others. Looking forward, The Grey Eagle continues to host a mix of established and emerging talent, including comedy and local artists, making it a must-visit destination for any music lover.

Everyone thinks of Asheville as a music destination but what they don’t realize is that there is plenty of great music all around the region. Neighboring towns like Brevard and Black Mountain also have their share of musical treasures. Brevard Music Center hosts a variety of classical concerts and other performances throughout the year including the likes of Bela Fleck.  185 King Street regularly puts on great shows and don’t forget about the Oscar Blue brewery, where you can catch some truly special collaborations. Meanwhile, Black Mountain’s vibrant music scene features cozy venues like Pisgah Brewing Company, White Horse Black Mountain, and Silverado’s where you can catch local acts and touring artists alike.

Something new this year is AVLFest, a celebration of local and regional music that showcases the diverse talent of the area. From bluegrass and folk to funk and rock, AVLFest offers a feast for your ears and a chance to discover new favorite artists. The LEAF festivals and Bluegrass First Class are also popular Asheville festivals.

For a taste of mountain culture, Shindig on the Green is an event you won’t want to miss. Held in the heart of downtown Asheville, this outdoor gathering brings together local musicians, dancers, and storytellers. Immerse yourself in the rich Appalachian culture as you enjoy the spirited performances and traditional music that fills the air. From toe-tapping fiddle tunes to lively clog-dancing, Shindig on the Green is a celebration of the region’s musical heritage. Oh, and bring your strings. There’s plenty of pickin to do behind the stage.

Honestly, this blog could go on forever. There are many more places like Jack of The Wood and The Asheville Music Hall where you can see high level performances from bluegrass to funk on a weekly basis. There’s Highland Brewing, Rabbit Rabbit, and Harrah’s Cherokee Center where you can see some of your favorite touring acts like Primus, Nathaniel Rateliff, Sturgil Simpson, and Mastodon. The moral of the story is, there’s something for everyone. Moving forward, I think I need to start a separate account for ticket purchases only. The question of “see these shows or pay my mortgage” isn’t much of a stretch.