Your Guide to This Week’s Best Live Music in Portland!
This Friday, September 13th, don’t miss The Portland Yacht Rock Festival at Aura, where local musicians will take you on a nostalgic journey through the golden age of soft rock. Also, on the same night, the critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Maggie Rose will bring her powerful ‘No One Gets Out Alive Tour’ to Portland House of Music. Get ready for an unforgettable night and week of incredible performances right here in Portland!
Looking for more live music? Check out Live Music Tonight, our full calendar of live music in Portland.
THE HEADLINER
Rainbow Kitten Surprise, a North Carolina-based quartet, blends lyrical depth, catchy melodies, and unique instrumental elements to create a sound that defies simple categorization. The band—led by singer/songwriter Ela Melo, with guitarists Bozzy Keller and Ethan Goodpaster, and drummer Jess Haney—found renewed creativity after Melo’s journey through mental health challenges. Diagnosed and treated in 2023, her improved well-being led to a resurgence in songwriting, producing at least one song a day for a year and shaping the direction of their latest project.
Tuesday, September 17th at Thompson’s Point
LIVE & LOCAL
This week, Aura is set to host the highly anticipated Portland Yacht Rock Festival, a celebration of smooth, laid-back classics that defined an era. Local musicians will take the stage, performing timeless hits from legends like Toto, Christopher Cross, America, Steely Dan, Ambrosia, Bread, and more. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of yacht rock or just looking for a night of easygoing, feel-good tunes, this festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. Grab your friends, set sail for Aura, and get ready to be transported back to the golden age of soft rock!
Friday, September 13th at Aura
MIDWEEK MUSIC
Wednesday nights at Andy’s are all about the smooth, laidback vibes of the Custom House Gang! Join Dave Beam, Rob Weiner, OB O’Brien, and their talented friends as they deliver a captivating mix of tunes that range from classic favorites to unique jams. Their relaxed, easygoing sound is the perfect midweek treat, creating the ideal atmosphere for unwinding with a drink and enjoying great company. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, you won’t want to miss out on this local favorite, offering an evening of music that’s sure to please.
Wednesday, September 11th at Andy’s Old Port Pub
STAFF PICK
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Maggie Rose, praised by Billboard for her “multi-genre talents” and called a “star” by Rolling Stone, has released her latest album No One Gets Out Alive. Inspired by the sounds of early ’70s Laurel Canyon, the album explores a range of themes, from relationship struggles and ageism to female empowerment and embracing the present. With Maggie’s soulful voice at the forefront, this project offers a blend of both darker and more uplifting moments, showcasing her ability to connect deeply with listeners.
Friday, September 13th at Portland House of Music
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.