music we love – lakeview edition

Chicago is home to some of the most vibrant and storied music venues in the country, and three of our favorites are in Lakeview. The next month is packed with must-see shows at our favorite neighborhood spots– Schubas, the Vic, and the Metro.

This evening Schubas hosts a night of free music featuring Chicago bands Varsity, Dream Version, and Nebraska band Oketo. They perform as part of Schubas brilliantly egalitarian concert series called 100% Off Bands. The building Schubas occupies was originally a Schlitz brewery, and was built over 100 years ago. The owners kept many details intact, from the sprawling mahogany bar to the tin ceiling. Catching a free show here is the perfect chance to enjoy this historic Lakeview building.

May 1st, Mos Def (now going by Yasiin Bey) will be performing at the Metro. One of the most socially conscious and relevant rappers of the last 20 years, Mos Def will be stopping in Chicago after a lengthy European tour. Though he hasn’t released an album in several years, Bey has an incredible catalog to perform and will surely draw both new and old fans.

Another Chicago venue indulging our love of a good throwback is the Vic, which hosts a rare comedy reunion this May. Kids in the Hall was the iconic Canadian sketch show that debuted over 20 years ago. It launched the careers of Bruce McCulloch (Gilmore Girls), Scott Thompson (Reno 911), Dave Foley (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia), and Mark McKinney (SNL). Nostalgia must be alive and well, because the members of Kids in the Hall come to the Vic May 14th. We can’t wait to experience their absurdist humor and drag-heavy sketches in person.

The next night, the Vic hosts a Benefit for Education with quintessential Chicago musician Jeff Tweedy. Tweedy is performing solo to raise money for the Montessori school his children attended– best Dad ever! The tickets are pricey, but the proceeds benefit an excellent cause with local importance. We’re longtime Wilco fans, and have been digging Tweedy and his son’s latest band (Tweedy, naturally.) We cannot wait to attend!

With so many must-see events happening this spring, there’s no excuse not to snap up some tickets and explore these wonderful Lakeview venues.

Vivian Ellis is a Salon Coordinator by day and stalker of music by night. When not performing herself, she works at the historical iO theatre. Providing lights and sound for many a comedy shows.