Hey, we admit it. We’re spoiled after years of all-star summer concerts. But the last few summers have felt similar — heavy on country, a helping of classic acts, the occasional pop star, a smattering of alternative and the dependable ‘90s throwbacks. Appearances by musical stars have been about as frequent as a Halley’s comet sighting.
Until 2017. It’s a summer fit for the Rock and Roll City, one spiced with the return of stadium rock and impressive acts at Quicken Loans Arena and Blossom Music Center. Barry Gabel, Live Nation senior vice president of marketing and sponsorship, credits superstars hitting the road, venue availability and Cleveland’s rise on the national scene.
“The bands and the managers and the agents, they all look at Cleveland and go, ‘Man, it’s really hot! Look what’s going on?’ ” he says. “Every time you turn on the TV, the Cavs are in the playoffs or the Indians are in the playoffs or the RNC. What’s that saying? A rising tide lifts all ships.”
Here’s a sampling of who’s coming to town.
June
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers,
Quicken Loans Arena, June 10
Paul Simon, Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica, June 13
July
U2, FirstEnergy Stadium, July 1
Billy Joel, Progressive Field, July 14
Queen, Quicken Loans Arena, July 21
August
Green Day, Blossom Music Center, Aug. 21
Lady Gaga, Quicken Loans Arena, Aug. 23
