Indie/Alt Concerts 2025-2026 - Page 497

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History of Alternative Music

Alternative music can be described as any music that is outside the mainstream. The music tends to be unique with characteristics such as original, wide-ranging, or challenging. The music is commonly distributed by independent record labels, avoiding the mainstream records industry. For that reason, it is also referred to as independent or indie music.

While the definition can apply to any genre, alternative music is mainly used to refer to alternative rock/pop. The music itself can be characterized by complex guitar melodies, lyrics dealing with social issues, and the use of layered instruments.

Alternative music has been around since the 1950s. In 1955, The Great Pretender by The Platters became the first-ever alternative song to be recorded and also the first in the genre to top the Billboard Top 100 charts. The genre would stay dormant for a while before being popularized by bands such as Nirvana in the 1990s with their hit songs such as Come As You Are and Smells Like Teen Spirit.

Biggest Alternative Concerts

Alternative concerts shy away from being highly commercialized unlike rock or pop, but you still can find some grand shows and festivals worth attending. For example, Lollapalooza in Grant Park, Chicago is a must-see festival for fans of the genre as it features a lot of alt concerts. 

Austin City Limits, headlined by The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, is another great alternative festival that you can experience. It is also one of the longest-running festivals in American history, with over 40 years of annual entertainment. 

Going to the west coast, the Desert Daze Festival that takes place in Moreno Beach, California is also something to look forward to. 

What Seats are the Best at a Concert

Indie concerts tend to be small-scale and intimate. You will have a great experience no matter where you sit. For bigger concerts, it is wise to pick your place in the middle, or left or right as long as you are some distance away from the stage. 

How to Buy Cheap Concert Tickets

Are you hoping to experience something different with alternative music concerts? Buy some alternative tickets and you’ll be on your way to some merry entertainment. Our website is a convenient place to buy tickets as we list tickets for a lot of concerts in the US, from various authentic ticket sellers. It is a great place to start your musical journey.

You can also use our event calendar to search for concerts near your local area. Just search by city or state to find the best concerts you can attend. If you’re lucky, you can catch tours by your favorite artists.

Popular Indie/Alt Artists & Bands On Tour

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