27th Annual Savannah Jazz Fest
What: Massive showcase of Dixieland, swing, bop, melodic and straight-ahead jazz, plus funky blues, featuring: Simone (daughter of Nina Simone), The Bob James Quintet, The Eric Culberson Blues Band, The Ben Riley Trio, Wanda Johnson & Shrimp City Slim, James Cotton, The Beer Parlor Ramblers, The Skyelite Jazz Ensemble and more.
Where: Forsyth Park and asst. venues
When: Sept. 20 - 28
Cost: Free to ALL-AGES
Info: savannahjazzfestival.org
Roundhouse Blues & BBQ Fest
What: The Coastal Heritage Society's beloved annual outdoor event pairing live blues and R&B with Southern cooking — held on the grounds of an historic train station and museum site. This year's lineup includes The Shane Pruitt Band (feat. Steve Miller's original keyboardist), La. dance music icons Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas, locally-based electric guitar sensation Eric Culberson & his band, and legendary harp player and singer Charlie Musselwhite, among others.
Where: Historic Roundhouse Grounds
When: 5 pm, Nov. 7 - 8
Cost: Adults: $12 per night/$20 for both, with kids under 6 and active duty military admitted free
Info: roundhousebluesandbbq.com
19th Annual Savannah Folk Music Fest
What: Diverse, family-oriented showcase of traditional and progressive acoustic music and culture. Includes famed singer-songwriter Jesse Winchester, premier Old-Time black string band The Carolina Chocolate Drops, Ct.-based trio Mad Agnes and Charleston duo The Hungry Monks — plus Sacred Harp Singing and a contra dance.
Where: Grayson Stadium, City Market & other local venues
When: Oct. 10 - 12
Cost: Free to ALL-AGES
Info: savannahfolk.org
Mountain Heart
What: Intimate, 100-seat show by a multiple award-winning, superstar bluegrass band featuring Barry Abernathy on banjo.
Where: Randy Wood's Concert Hall (Bloomingdale)
When: 8 pm, Sept. 26
Cost: $30 adv. for ALL-AGES
Info: randywoodguitars.com
Jonathan Richman & Tommy Larkins
What: Tiny Team presents the first area appearance by this world-famous alternative rock singer-songwriter and cult figure in 18 years. Backed by longtime drummer Larkins, the guitarist will perform tunes spanning his 35-year career.
Where: Savannah Smiles
When: 8 pm, Oct. 8
Cost: $12 adv./$15 at door for 21+
Info: tinyteamconcerts.org
Rev. Horton Heat, Nashville Pussy, Reckless Kelly
What: Wagatail presents this massive triple bill of psychobilly, vulgar Southern metal and roots-rock.
Where: Malone's
When: 8 pm, Oct. 28
Cost: $25 adv. for 21+
Info: wagatailpresents.com
John Prine in Concert
What: Critically adored, Grammy-winning country and modern folk singer-songwriter who was named 2005's Americana Artist of The Year.
Where: Lucas Theatre
When: 8 pm, Nov. 21
Cost: TBD
Info: lucastheatre.com