Fall’s Best First Date Concerts

Carly Rae Jepsen. Photo by Meredith Jenks

Meeting for dinner and drinks can get repetitive and disheartening over time, so we’re here with a chance to mix up your go-to first date routine. It couldn’t hurt to check out one of these high quality concerts coming to town this fall, that way, even if the date’s a bust, you still got to see a great show.

10.11

Rocky Votolato Living Room Show

Indie folk troubadour Rocky Votolato has been turning out quiet, Americana-tinged records for over 20 years, amassing a dedicated cult following. He’s also known for eschewing traditional rock clubs for entire tours booked around house shows: more intimate, fan-focused affairs that pop up in residential areas throughout the country. A trip to a stranger’s house to see some live music is definitely a unique way to make a first impression for brave, folk loving suitors. $25; 8 p.m.; undertowshows.com 

10.17

Carly Rae Jepsen at Arizona Financial Theatre

No pop singer crafts gems more swoon-worthy than Carly Rae Jepsen, a beloved purveyor of heart-swelling tales of longing and loss. Bring your first date along and scream your heads off to bangers like “Run Away With Me,” “I Really Like You,” and, of course, “Call Me Maybe.” $46-$51; 7:30pm; 400 West Washington Street Phoenix, AZ; livenation.com // @arizonafinancialtheatre

10.29

Makaya McCraven at the Musical Instrument Museum

One of the most exciting names in 21st century jazz, Chicago-based drummer, producer, and beat scientist Makaya McCraven crafts expansive, textured recordings sampled from his unforgettable live performances. A two-pronged date that starts with a stroll around the Musical Instrument Museum before grabbing a seat in their impressive 300 seat theatre and enjoying some of the most forward-thinking yet accessible jazz music int he world. $33.50-$44.50; 7:30 p.m.; 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ; mim.org // @mimphx

11.11 + 12

Elton John at Chase Field

Show your date you mean business by splurging on some pricey seats at Chase Field so you can both sing along to some of the most iconic pop songs of the 20th century at Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road: The Final Tour. There aren’t many chances left to see this living legend before he retires, so make this trip one to remember with your future Tiny Dancer. $242; 8 p.m.; 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ; mlb.com // @chasefield

12.3

Lee Fields & The Expressions at Crescent Ballroom

Legendary soul singer Lee Fields has had a great 21st century, undergoing a massive career resurgence thanks to a handful of killer records recorded with his backing band The Expressions. Now in his 70s, Fields shows no sign of slowing down his relentless touring schedule, bringing authentic, heartfelt soul music to every corner of the world. His dynamic live shows are quality entertainment for a first date, where a new couple can bask in wise words on romance, delivered by a wisened elder. $28; 7 p.m.; 308 N. 2nd Avenue Phoenix AZ; crescentphx.com // @CrescentPHX

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