November tends to be one of those weird off-months for live music in Lawrence. Somewhere between the nonstop action of Rocktober and the sprint-to-the-finish of December and the holidays, this is a chance to see the locals take the headlining spots. There are genres for every type of listener (metal, rap, and even a cover show that everyone can get on board with), so be sure to check the “Other Events To Keep On Your Radar” section at the end.
Ultimate Fakebook - This Will be Laughing Week: 25th Anniversary Tour
The Bottleneck | November 1
This is apparently the year for reunion/anniversary tours. Lawrence is a strong music community—and guess what? It was a strong music town 20 years ago, 25 years ago, 30 years ago, and so on. So it’s no surprise we’re seeing this anniversary pop-up shows at the Bottleneck (arguably one of the strongest venues back in the day).
Despite eventually disbanding to various parts of the country, Ultimate Fakebook have managed to keep a strong fan base in the region. They regularly play reunion shows (usually around the holidays) and keep up with their fans on social media. This all ages show will likely sell out, so snag your tickets now. They’ll be joined by Schatzi, Jon Snodgrass and Friends The Touchdowns.
RIYL: The Get Up Kids, Smoking Popes, Bands with Drummers who look like Dave Grohl
YZ The Wave / Under Rated Society / Marz222 & Big Mack / VCMN
The Replay | November 14
When Lawrence books a hip-hop lineup, they don’t mess around. YZ the Wave is rolling through the area on his tour, but it’s the supporting artsits who really got us jazzed. Under Rated Society is a collective of rappers, you never know how many will be onstage. Sometimes it’s five, sometimes it’s ten. Who knows! Just enjoy the ride. Both Under Rated Society and VCMN are local acts that have such a large onstage presence, you’ll often see them on festival stages in the area.
RIYL: Local hip-hop, R&B, Trap
BigXthaPlug
The Granada | November 21
It’s hard to believe BigXthaPlug is only 26. On his latest album, Take Care, the young rapper’s words make him appear wise beyond his years. A genuine confession of his life’s trials and tribulations, layered over samples from old favorites (such as the Isley Brothers), makes the listener think he’s been through it all (he did write some of his previous album’s tracks while in solitary confinement). The result is a modern and heartbreaking take on classic sounds, beautifully and harmoniously woven together. BigXthaPlug’s music is a raw and emotional journey, so strap in. He’ll be joined by Ro$ama and Yung Hood.
RIYL: Lil Yachty, Big Boogie
A Tribute To Selena [CANCELED]
The Bottleneck | November 22
Full disclosure: this is an I Heart Local Music event.
Are you even a music fan if you don’t love, cherish, and honor Selena Quintanilla Pérez?!!
You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who isn’t gaga for Selena. Even with her life cut tragically short, you will likely hear her music throughout the venues of Lawrence, sometimes through a DJ dance night, sometimes through a band. One of those bands that loves to cover Selena is Maria the Mexican, who will be providing the night of music. Drag queen and expert Selena impersonator Alexandria Evangelista will also be dazzling fans at the Bottleneck on this night for this free and all ages show.
RIYL: Selena, piñatas shaped like Yolanda Saldivar.
Other events to keep on your radar:
Lonnie Fisher / Sunflower Ordinance Works / The Hot Tubtones
The Replay | November 1
Yoke Lore
The Granada | November 2
Broadside & Bearings
The Bottleneck | November 7
Benjamin Tod & Lost Dog Street Band
Liberty Hall | November 8
The Sluts / Eradicats / The Creepy Jingles
The Replay | November 9
Godspeed You! Black Emperor
Liberty Hall | November 11
Straight No Chaser: Top Shelf Tour
Lied Center | November 13
80 Proof Alice Release Party
Lucia | November 16
The Devil Wears Prada
The Granada | November 16
Carter Combs / Lauren Lovell / Folk in the Flow (early show)
The Replay | November 19
The Staves
The Bottleneck | November 20
This is the place where Nirvana & Green Day played in a small, standing-room-only shack. This is the place where Janelle Monae packed in her hometown crowd. George Clinton has funked up our streets and we “fought the power” with...
