Portland’s Music Scene is Heating Up This Week!
Portland’s State Theatre is set to host two unforgettable rap concerts this week, guaranteed to make waves in the city’s music scene! On Friday, December 6th, don’t miss the iconic rap trio The LOX—Styles P, Jadakiss, and Sheek Louch—bringing their legendary hits to the stage. Then, on Monday, December 9th, New Orleans’ own Juvenile takes the spotlight with the 400 Degreez Band to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his iconic anthem “Back That Azz Up.”
Looking for more live music? Check out Live Music Tonight, our full calendar of live music in Portland.
THE HEADLINER
The LOX, a rap trio from Yonkers made up of Styles P, Jadakiss, and Sheek Louch, rose to fame in the late ’90s and early 2000s. They started with Bad Boy Records, where their debut album Money, Power & Respect became a Top Ten hit. Later, they found their stride with Ruff Ryders, releasing the fan-favorite We Are the Streets. Each member went on to have successful solo careers, all landing Top Ten albums on the Billboard charts. The group eventually reunited, releasing new music like Filthy America…It’s Beautiful and Living Off Xperience under their own label, D-Block Records, while continuing to bring their raw energy to live performances.
Friday, December 6th at State Theatre
LIVE & LOCAL
Marc Chillemi is a Portland-based musician and composer with deep roots in jazz, Caribbean, and West African music. Over his 30-year career, Marc has built an impressive resume of performances and recordings across diverse genres. He has played with renowned international artists such as Orchestra Baobab, The Satellites, Alton Ellis, Slavic Soul Party, Antibalas, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, G. Love & Special Sauce, and John Popper, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Wednesday, December 4th at Henry’s Public House
MIDWEEK MUSIC
Tom Rush has been a pivotal figure in American music, shaping the folk revival of the ’60s, the folk-rock movement of the ’70s, and inspiring a new wave of artists through the ’80s and ’90s. His influence has been acknowledged by legends like James Taylor, Emmylou Harris, Tom Petty, and Garth Brooks. Tom’s early recordings introduced audiences to the music of Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and James Taylor, while his Club 47 concerts helped spotlight rising stars like Nanci Griffith and Shawn Colvin.
Thursday, December 5th at One Longfellow Square
STAFF PICK
Hip-hop icon Juvenile is hitting the road for a nationwide tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his classic hit “Back That Azz Up.” A defining anthem of New Orleans’ rich musical history, the song has become a cultural landmark. In recognition of this milestone, June 11, 2024, has been declared “Back That Azz Up Day” in New Orleans, encouraging fans to celebrate by playing the song, sharing memories, or creating new ones with #BackThatAzzUpDay. Produced by Mannie Fresh and featuring Lil Wayne, the track’s enduring impact has been officially recognized by Mayor LaToya Cantrell with a special proclamation.
Monday, December 9th at State Theatre
This is just a sample of what’s happening this week. Check out the Live Music Tonight page for a full calendar of live events happening in Portland, Maine.