The N.C. Music Hall of Fame recognizes four honorees this year with ties to Western North Carolina.
Around Town: Black Mountain explores its haunted history with walking tours
Black Mountain will explore some of the town’s ghost stories with downtown walking tours. Plus, FIND Outdoors presents The Legend of Tommy Hodges, a local artist tackles the pandemic with dinosaurs, and the Junior League invites kids to Touch-a-Truck.
Rocky Horror Music Show pays tribute to cult classic
The all-star lineup of Asheville musicians features members of Dr. Bacon, Natural Born Leaders, Modern Strangers, Andrew Thelston Band and more.
Video premiere: “Vigil” by Aunt Vicki
The Asheville-based duo of Erin Campbell and Lee Dyer filmed the video at Riverlink’s labyrinth.
Indigo De Souza, Katie Sachs and Alexa Rose release new albums
The three Asheville-based artists discuss their distinct collaborative processes for their new albums.
Video premiere: “Canadian Goose” by Sophia Corinne
The Wild Array lead singer debuts her solo project with this straightforward yet memorable video.
Street performers contemplate their future in Asheville
Local buskers chat with Xpress about the current challenges they face in Asheville. From the pandemic to robbery, life as a street artist isn’t always an upbeat song.
MerleFest adapts with fall gathering
After being canceled in 2020, the revered music fest returns to Wilkes Community College, Sept. 16-19.
Around Town: Paved Paradise music pop-up stops at Archetype Brewing
Paved Paradise music pop-up stops at Archetype Brewing. Plus, blu29 showcases underrepresented artists, North Carolina honors Rafael Guastavino, and the Blue Ridge Orchestra marks the 20th anniversary of 9/11.
Around town: Goombay Festival celebrates 40 years
The Goombay Festival celebrates African and Caribbean heritage in Asheville. Plus, the N.C. Apple Festival returns for its 75th year, Weaverville gets ready to open a new community center and a local author publishes a children’s book.
LEAF Downtown returns
Following last year’s pandemic-related pause, LEAF Downtown returns to Asheville for its sixth annual gathering.
Travis Book and Johanna Hagarty discuss the wild world of podcasting
The Infamous Stringdusters bassist draws on unusual inspirations for his podcast, while the Biz Radio host is exploring newer interactive platforms.
Po’folk, Wild Array and The Chariot release new albums
Hip-hop, R&B, synth rock and folk are represented across these three superb full-length projects.
The Mountain Dance and Folk Festival celebrates its 94th year
The long-running showcase of Southern Appalachian music, dance and storytelling takes place Aug. 5-7 at UNCA’s Lipinsky Hall.
Rock Academy and What’s Shaking? enrich young people’s lives
Dena Clark and Ryan Glass discuss their approaches to music education and the long-term benefits of learning to play instruments.
Nina Simone’s legacy and influence continue to inspire
Nearly two decades after her death, musician Nina Simone remains relevant to local and national acts.
Lake Monster Parade offers accessible family fun
Aquatic creatures flock to Lake Tomahawk, two pairs of artists form new studios and more area arts news.
Ryan “RnB” Barber, Julia Sanders and Powder Horns release new albums
The recent collections include R&B/hip-hop originals, Springsteen covers and pulsing rock ‘n’ roll.
Daniel Crupi begins work as Asheville Symphony executive director
A graduate of Notre Dame and UNC Greensboro, Daniel Crupi recently brought innovative programming to the Santa Fe Symphony.
Around Town: Urban Renewal Impact website goes live
The findings of Priscilla Robinson’s 14-year project are published, a recent Asheville High graduate earns a spot in the prestigious GRAMMY Camp and more area arts news.
Recent A.C. Reynolds High School graduate selected for Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra
The recent A.C. Reynolds High School graduate discusses his musical journey and where he hopes his latest opportunities will lead.