Summer music highlights of 2026

Summer 2026 is shaping up to be a vibrant season for live music, with a lineup of prominent artists embarking on extensive tours across the United States. From stadium shows to amphitheater performances, music fans have a diverse array of concerts to experience.

Bruce Springsteen kicked off the season with his "Land of Hope and Dreams" American Tour, performing at Chicago's United Center on April 29, 2026. Ed Sheeran followed, bringing his "Loop Tour" to Chicago's Soldier Field on June 27, 2026, where he delivered a 26-song setlist, including hits like "Castle on the Hill" and "Thinking Out Loud," along with three encores.

Massachusetts-based rock band Godsmack, featuring lead vocalist/guitarist Sully Erna, performed at the Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre in Tinley Park, Illinois, on June 20, 2026, as part of their "Rise of Rock" North American tour. Sharing the stage that evening were Stone Temple Pilots, featuring bassist Robert DeLeo and vocalist Scott Weiland.

Further adding to the summer's musical landscape, The Strokes performed at Chicago's United Center on June 17, 2026, supporting their upcoming seventh studio album. Legendary bassist Glenn Hughes brought his supergroup The Dead Daisies to the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, Illinois, on May 30, 2026, for a special engagement that included Deep Purple classics. Additionally, Black Sabbath tribute band Zakk Sabbath, fronted by guitarist Zakk Wylde, opened for Wylde's band Black Label Society in Joliet, Illinois, on May 16, 2026.