Seattle's concert scene kicks off 2026 with performances from Sub Pop label standouts and artists nominated for the 68th annual Grammy Awards. Highlights include Indigenous experimental pop, Americana rock, and hip-hop heavyweights across various venues. A new supergroup and folk rockers with the Seattle Symphony add to the diverse lineup.
As Sub Pop's retail shop at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport closes at the end of 2025, the label's artists continue to thrive with several shows in early 2026. Ya Tseen, the project of Alaska artist Nicholas Galanin, performs at 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 16 at Clock-Out Lounge to celebrate its second Sub Pop album, "Stand on My Shoulders," which explores Indigenous heritage through experimental pop. Tickets range from $25 to $30 for the 21-and-older event.
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit bring their acoustic, Grammy-nominated album "Foxes in the Snow"—up for best folk album—to the Paramount Theatre for shows at 8 p.m. on Jan. 23 and 24, with tickets priced at $67 to $115. Atlanta rapper J.I.D makes up a canceled November date with an 8 p.m. performance on Jan. 27 at the same venue, ahead of potential wins for his album "God Does Like Ugly," which earned nods for best rap album and another category; tickets start at $49.
The new supergroup Drink the Sea, featuring Barrett Martin of Screaming Trees, R.E.M.'s Peter Buck, Duke Garwood, and Alain Johannes, plays moody progressive rock from their twin self-titled albums at 8 p.m. on Jan. 30 at Town Hall, with tickets at $45 to $50.
Naima Bock, formerly of Goat Girl and now on Sub Pop, headlines an 8 p.m. show on Feb. 5 at Tractor Tavern with her sophomore album "Below a Massive Dark Land," opened by Mildred; it's $25 for 21-and-older attendees.
The Head and the Heart joins the Seattle Symphony for an 8 p.m. homecoming on Feb. 6 at Benaroya Hall, with limited tickets starting at $138, before touring with Brandi Carlile.
Other notable events include Khu.éex’ fundraising album release for "Red Cedar in the Hour of Chaos" at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 7 at Nectar Lounge ($23, 21+); Paul Cauthen's solo alt-country shows Feb. 12-14 at Sunset Tavern ($68.50, 21+); Sprints' post-punk set from 6-9 p.m. on Feb. 14 at the Crocodile ($39); Charley Crockett's Grammy-nominated "Dollar a Day" doubleheader Feb. 19-20 at The 5th Avenue Theatre ($85+); and Cardi B's "Little Miss Drama Tour" stop on Feb. 22 at Climate Pledge Arena (7:30 p.m., $74+), supporting her 2025 album "Am I the Drama?" with a best rap performance nod for "Outside."