Fall A&E Guide: Live music returns with George Strait, Stones, Killer Mike and more

ONE Musicfest returns to Centennial Olympic Park Oct. 9-10. 
Courtesy of ONE Musicfest

Credit: Handout

Credit: Handout

ONE Musicfest returns to Centennial Olympic Park Oct. 9-10. Courtesy of ONE Musicfest

From festivals to club shows, live music is back. Here are some highlights from the upcoming concert calendar, showcasing artists from a variety of genres who share the thrill of finally being able to perform again. Be sure to check with venues for updates on health and safety policies and ticket availability.

John Legend. Earlier this year, Legend won a Grammy for his album “Bigger Love.” Now he’s finally able to tour in support of the release, with the opening date in Atlanta. Sept. 1. $89-$154.50, plus VIP options. Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park, 4469 Stella Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-233-2227, Livenation.com.

Atlanta Jazz Festival. The pandemic pushed the festival, a landmark cultural event since 1978, from spring to fall. Patti Austin, Archie Shepp and Ron Carter are featured performers. Sept. 5-6. Free. Piedmont Park, 1320 Monroe Drive NE, Atlanta. Atlantafestivals.com.

Music Midtown. The Atlanta institution has survived a plethora of location changes and a six-year hiatus since its founding in 1994. This year’s event takes place on four stages and features a roster heavy on pop artists, including Megan Thee Stallion, Maroon 5, Miley Cyrus and Jonas Brothers. Sept. 18-19. $135-$650. Piedmont Park, 1320 Monroe Drive NE, Atlanta. 512-674-9300, MusicMidtown.com.

Willie Nelson headlines the Outlaw Music Festival at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre on Sept. 22. 
Courtesy of Blackbird Presents

Credit: Handout

icon to expand image

Credit: Handout

Outlaw Music Festival. National treasure Willie Nelson is 88 but continues to fly the flag for outlaw country music, enthusiastically fronting this festival now in its fifth year. His musical descendant Sturgill Simpson leads the stellar cast of other performers on the bill. Sept. 22. $106 and up. Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. 404-733-5010, Livenation.com.

Tame Impala. One-man band Kevin Parker’s records have traveled all over the musical map, starting with ‘60s-influenced psych rock and most recently dabbling in disco on “The Slow Rush.” He and his touring group are promoting that No. 3-charting album this fall. Sept. 28. $48.75-$297.75. State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta. 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.

Harry Styles. Styles has grown by leaps and bounds artistically since going solo following the demise of his boy band One Direction. His second album “Fine Line” was a commercial and critical success, and he’s finally able to support it with his Love On Tour, featuring opener Jenny Lewis. Oct. 27-28. Sold out. State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Drive. 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.

Enrique Iglesias and Ricky Martin. Latin pop megastars Iglesias and Martin have never toured together, which they’re rectifying with this dance-focused, COVID-delayed, co-headlining affair. Oct. 29. $79.95-$199.95. State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta. 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.

ATLive Concert Series. The series delivers one night each of country music and metal/hard rock. George Strait has just a handful of shows booked for the rest of the year, and happily one is in Atlanta. Joining him are Eric Church and Caitlyn Smith. Metallica celebrates its 40th birthday with a reissue of their classic “Black Album” and a tour that includes Cage The Elephant and Greta Van Fleet. Strait: Nov. 5, $174 and up. Metallica: Nov. 7, $69-$199. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta. 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.

More of our fall arts preview

10 fall events you don’t want to miss

Atlanta theaters reopening for fall

Women artists shine in visual arts

‘Giselle’ and contemporary works highlight dance

Classical music premieres and more

Rolling Stones, George Strait, Killer Mike headed to Atlanta