This fall, three of Oxford’s most prominent venues — The Lyric, the Gertrude C. Ford Center and Proud Larry’s — will host a variety of talent. From best-selling country music stars to ESPN senior writers, this lineup offers opportunities for fun nights out with friends, family outings, date nights or study breaks.
For first-year students, live music is an introduction, and for those returning, it is a place of reconnection. Oxford stages have booked a selection of music ranging from country and funk to pop and rock.
“We’ve curated a diverse schedule featuring many different types of live shows, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy here,” The Lyric Co-Owner and General Manager Lindsay Dillon-Maginnis said. “Please note, this is just the beginning.”
All events listed are open to people 18+; $5 cover fee for those under 21.
Event: An Evening of Football and Rock-n-Roll with ESPN Senior Writers Wright Thompson and Seth Wickersham
Venue: Square Books and Proud Larry’s
When: Sept. 3
Though not a strictly musical option, a special, partnered event from Square Books and Proud Larry’s is the perfect night out for avid readers, sports fans and concert-goers. Beginning at Square Books, ESPN Senior Writers Wright Thompson (also author of “The Barn”) and Seth Wickersham will be present for a Q&A and book signing. Later, Michael Farris Smith & The Smokes will perform at Proud Larry’s for an afterparty.
Artist: Cosmic Charlie
Venue: The Lyric
When: Sept. 4
Genre: Rock Tribute Band
Do you feel like you were born at the wrong time? Were you meant to be a Deadhead roving the country in your peace-sign Airstream? Seeing Cosmic Charlie, a Grateful Dead tribute band, is your chance to dance like the bohemian you wish you were.
Artist: James McMurtry
Venue: Proud Larry’s
When: Sept. 4
Genre: Americana
Declared by Stephen King to be “the truest, fiercest songwriter of his generation,” James McMurtry is a treasured lyricist. If you enjoy listening to Bob Dylan-esque narratives and hearing a story within a song, this concert is a must-see.
Artist: Runaway Gin
Venue: The Lyric
When: Sept. 5
Genre: Rock Tribute Band
The inspiration for the Bonnaroo Music Festival in Manchester, Tenn., Phish was named as one of the most influential bands of the 1990s. Though not the real thing, this Phish tribute band allows for an immersive experience to hear some of the most recognizable songs from the group in a live performance.
Artist: Tanner Usrey
Venue: Proud Larry’s
When: Sept. 5
Genre: Country
After collaborating with Ella Langley, having songs featured on the Paramount+ series “Landman” and opening for Koe Wetzel, Cody Links and The Red Clay Strays, Tanner Usrey is an upcoming country music star. For those who know him, no incentive is needed to see him, and for those who don’t, where have you been all this time?
Artist: Lightwatch
Venue: Proud Larry’s
When: Sept. 6
Genre: Alternative Rock
A free, all-ages event, Lightwatch is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a low-cost, fun night with friends if your music appetite is for heavy, loud sounds. Listen to their song “Dream Demon” to decide if they are up your alley.
Artist: The Avett Brothers
Venue: Gertrude C. Ford Center
When: Sept. 11
Genre: Folk-rock
The Avett Brothers will be bringing an exclusive event to Oxford, with early tickets available only through sponsorships to the Ford Center. The band usually fills much larger arenas; this show will provide a more intimate experience for those looking to hear the band’s unique rock sound. As repeat Grammy nominees and members of the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, The Avett Brothers are sure to display award-winning sounds.
Artist: George Porter Jr. & The Runnin’ Pardners
Venue: Proud Larry’s
When: Sept. 12
Genre: Funk
Playing a genre not always easy to find in Oxford, this funk band will allow for a slow, groovy night. Dress up in your bell-bottoms and your best tie-dye to match the signature look of George Porter and head to Proud Larry’s to enjoy a ’70s-themed night out.
Artist: Mustache the Band
Venue: The Lyric
When: Sept. 13
Genre: Country
Saturday night following the Ole Miss vs. Arkansas football game, is there a better way to celebrate than with a ’90s country party? Mustache the Band will be playing the best country hits of the 1990s. With 125 songs in their repertoire, Mustache the Band will transport audience members back in time by the end of the night.
Artist: Maddox Batson
Venue: The Lyric
When: Sept. 14
Genre: Country
Fifteen-year-old rising country star Maddox Batson is the perfect show for all ages to enjoy. After receiving a medical diagnosis that kept him from pursuing sports, Batson began writing songs and playing music with his family all over the country. If you are looking to hear a younger artist’s take on Southern sounds, this is the concert for you.
Artist: Risky Strings
Venue: Proud Larry’s
When: Sept. 15
Genre: Bluegrass
Another free, all-ages event is the Risky Strings bluegrass band. If you enjoy traditional, high-energy bluegrass sounds and are looking for something fun to do at the end of a long Monday, Risky Strings will restore your good mood.
