Send us your calendar items. Please submit items to the Calendar of Events via e-mail, at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or fax to (828) 252-6567, or mail c/o The Daily Planet, P.O. Box 8081, Asheville, N.C. 28814-8081. Submissions will be accepted and printed at the discretion of the editor, space permitting. To place an ad for an event, call (828) 252-6565.

Wednesday, Jan. 8

JASON DECRISTOFARO’S JAZZ NIGHT, 6-8 p.m., Southern Appalachian Brewery, 822 Locust St., Hendersonville. The SAB hosts Jason DeCristofaro’s Jazz Night show every Wednesday. DeCristofaro, a multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator based in Asheville, performs on stage with his band. Among the jazz jam’s highlights, DeCristofaro, on occasion, will invite from the crowd a musician (who brings along a guitar or horn)  and/or a vocalist (who often has sheet music with the lyrics) onto the stage to perform with the band — often wowing the audience. Admission is free. 

SHAG DANCE/ROEBUCK, 6-9 p.m., Southport Bar & Grill, 629 Southport Road, Roebuck, S.C. The Upstate Shag Club will host a shag dance. 

SHAG DANCE/ANDERSON, 6-9 p.m., AJ’s Bar & Grill, 101 Destination Boulevard, Anderson, S.C. The Electric City Shag Club will host a shag dance.

SHAG DANCE/GREENVILLE, 6-10 p.m., Spare Time Entertainment Center, 822 Congaree Road, Greenville, S.C. The Carolina Shag Club will offer a beginner shag lesson from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by its weekly shag dance — featuring Carolina beach music — from 7 to 10 p.m.

LATIN AND BALLROOM DANCE LESSONS, 6:15-10 p.m., Duncan Event Center, 119 S. Spencer St., Duncan, S.C. The lessons include a tango dance class,  6:15-7 p.m.; bachata, 7-7:45 p.m., and salsa, 7:45 -8:30 p.m. Then, from 8:30 to 10 p.m., an open dance will be held, featuring the dances of salsa, bachata, merengue and cha cha, with music provided by DJ (and dance teacher) Natalie Foreverland. Cost is $10 lesson — or $25 for all three classes. Admission is free to the dance after the lessons

LATIN NIGHT DANCE, 8:30 p.m.-midnight, One World Brewery West, 520 Haywood Road, West Asheville. The event will begin with a dance lesson, from 8:30 to 9 p.m. — and beginners are welcome. Following the lesson, an all-Latin dance ­— salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia and reggaeton ­ — will be held, featuring music by DJ Mtn Vibez. The cover charge is $5 cash.

Thursday, January 9

HENDERSONVILLE BALLROOM DANCE CLUB DANCE, 6:30-8:45 p.m., Hedrick Rhodes Veterans Center (the old VFW), 900 N. Main St., Hendersonville. The Hendersonville Ballroom Dance Club will host a dance at which women are asked to dress up in “gowns (and) bling” — and for men to wear “suits and ties.” Music will be provided by DJ Gary Bills, who will play a variety of holiday dance tunes, including swing (east  and west coast), waltz, tango, rumba, cha-cha and foxtrot. There also will be a mixer. There will be no dance lesson. All dancers are asked to use the upper back entrance of the building. Admission is $5.

PAUL LIFORD ACOUSTIC CONCERT/DANCE, 8-10 p.m., The Dugout, 430 N. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. Paul Liford, lead singer of the band Fine Line, and a guest, will perform in an acoustic show for listening and/or dancing.

PLEASURE CHEST CONCERT, 8-10 p.m., 5 Walnut Wine Bar, 5 Walnut St., downtown Asheville. The band Pleasure Chest will perform.

KARAOKE/DANCING GALA, 8 p.m.-midnight, The Bar at the Main Event, 125 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. Attendees are invited to enjoy cocktails and dancing, while listening to singing, karaoke-style — wherein people sing along to pre-recorded accompaniment using a microphone. Admission is limited to American Legion members, or a guest of a member. 

Friday, January 10

DAREN NICHOLSON & SHAWN LANE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 E. North Broad St., Walhalla, S.C. Daren Nicholson & Shawn Lane will perform in concert. For tickets, visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com.

KARAOKE/DANCING GALA, 8 p.m.-midnight, downstairs, American Legion Post 77, 216 4th Avenue West, downtown Hendersonville. Attendees are invited to enjoy cocktails and dancing, while listening or singing, karaoke-style — wherein people sing along to pre-recorded accompaniment using a microphone. 

Saturday, January 11

MEN’S CLUB MEETING, 9 a.m., upstairs, American Legion Lodge Post 77, 216 4th Avenue West, Hendersonville, The Henderson County Republican Men’s Club will meet for a breakfast buffet, followed by a monthly meeting featuring two topics. First, the club will discuss how it “can engage and reach out to the (ages) 18-29 demographic, which turned out in the presidential election. How do we recruit them and get them involved in the local politics?” a meeting promotion asked. The scond topic will be the”vetting candidates for the Henderson County GOP Executive Board. If you are considering running for GOP chair, vice chair, secretary or treasurer, we need to hear from you. Each candidate will be given equal time to present themselves and their credentials... Why you are running and how you will grow and develop candidates for local, state and national offices? Be prepared to take questions from our members.” The “all-you-can-eat” buffet breakfast will feature eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, gravy, fruit, cinnamon rolls, coffee and juice. Cost for the breakfast is $13 cash — payable at the door. Reservations, which are required for the breakfast, may be made by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or calling (828) 329 4971.

LYSANDER PIANO TRIO CONCERT, 4 p.m., First Presbyterian Church of Asheville, 40 Church St., Asheville. The Lysander Piano Trio will perform.

BEACH NIGHT DANCE, 7-10 p.m., upstairs, American Legion Post 77, 216 4th Avenue West, Hendersonville. The monthly Beach Night dance will feature shag dancing to Carolina beach music. Earlier, from 6:30 to 7 p.m., Cy Miller and Joyce Anderson will teach a shag dance step. Meals and drinks will be available for purchase. Admission is $7. 

COUNTRY & BALLROOM DANCE PARTY, 7:15-10 p.m., Ivy Building, A-B Tech, 9 Genevieve Circle, Asheville. Missy Lindsey will host a Country and Ballroom Dance Party. From 7:15 to 8 p.m., Lindsey will teach a cha-cha dance lesson. From 8 to 10 p.m., the dance party will be be held featuring music by Lindsey serving as the DJ. “Casual dress — no partner needed,” a promotion stated. Admission at the door is $15 — and attendees are urged to attend 15 minutes early to avoid being late to the class.

Sunday, January 12

SHAG CLUB 2025 “RE-UP” PARTY, 2-5 p.m., The Chop House, 22 Woodfin St., downtown Asheville. The Mountain Shag Club will hold its 2025 “Re-Up” Party. For those who pay their 2025 dues, attendance is free. Otherwise, admission is $10.

VFW SUNDAY TEA DANCE/TWO-STEP LESSION, 3-6 p.m., upstairs, Hedrick Rhodes Veterans Center (the old VFW), 900 N. Main St., Hendersonville. From 3 to 4 p.m., a two-step lesson will be taught by the gala’s hosts, Richard and Sue Cicchetti. From 4 to 6 p.m., a ballroom dance will feature music provided by DJ Sonny Day. The cover charge will include admission to both the dance and group lesson, bottled water, a light snack and a free raffle ticket for valuable prizes. Admission at the door is $15. 

Monday, January 13

SHAG DANCE, 6-9 p.m., Outdoorsmen Inc. (Event Center), 4535 Highway 11 West, Blountville, Tenn. The Mountain Empire Shag Society will host a shag dance. Gate and doors open at 6 p.m., with the dance held from 7 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 for nonmembers.

BLUE MONDAY WITH MR. JIMMY, 7-9 p.m., The Joint Next Door, 1185 Charlotte Highway, Fairview. “Blue Monday With Mr. Jimmy” will be held, featuring the Chicago-style blues singer-guitarist.

Tuesday, January 14

THE LADS AVL CONCERT, 6-8:30 p.m., The Joint Next Door, 1185 Charlotte Highway., Fairview. The Lads AVL will perform.  

SHAG DANCE/ASHEVILLE, 6:30-9 p.m., the Chop House Asheville (at Four Points by Sheraton), 22 Woodfin St., downtown Asheville. The Mountain Shag Club will host its weekly shag dance to Carolina beach music provided by rotating DJs. Cost is $7. 

JOHN HENRYS CONCERT/DANCE, 8 p.m., 5 Walnut Wine Bar, 5 West Walnut St., Asheville. The John Henrys will perform music for listening and/or dancing. 

Wednesday, January 15

JASON DECRISTOFARO’S JAZZ NIGHT, 6-8 p.m., Southern Appalachian Brewery, 822 Locust St., Hendersonville. The SAB hosts Jason DeCristofaro’s Jazz Night show every Wednesday. DeCristofaro, a multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator based in Asheville, performs on stage with his band. Among the jazz jam’s highlights, DeCristofaro, on occasion, will invite from the crowd a musician (who brings along a guitar or horn)  and/or a vocalist (who often has sheet music with the lyrics) onto the stage to perform with the band — often wowing the audience. Admission is free. 

SHAG DANCE/ROEBUCK, 6-9 p.m., Southport Bar & Grill, 629 Southport Road, Roebuck, S.C. The Upstate Shag Club will host a shag dance. 

SHAG DANCE/ANDERSON, 6-9 p.m., AJ’s Bar & Grill, 101 Destination Boulevard, Anderson, S.C. The Electric City Shag Club will host a shag dance.

SHAG DANCE/GREENVILLE, 6-10 p.m., Spare Time Entertainment Center, 822 Congaree Road, Greenville, S.C. The Carolina Shag Club will offer a beginner shag lesson from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by its weekly shag dance — featuring Carolina beach music — from 7 to 10 p.m.

LATIN AND BALLROOM DANCE LESSONS, 6:15-10 p.m., Duncan Event Center, 119 S. Spencer St., Duncan, S.C. The lessons include a tango dance class,  6:15-7 p.m.; bachata, 7-7:45 p.m., and salsa, 7:45 -8:30 p.m. Then, from 8:30 to 10 p.m., an open dance will be held, featuring the dances of salsa, bachata, merengue and cha cha, with music provided by DJ (and dance teacher) Natalie Foreverland. Cost is $10 lesson — or $25 for all three classes. Admission is free to the dance after the lessons

KARAOKE/DANCING GALA, 8 p.m.-midnight, The Bar at the Main Event, 125 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. Attendees are invited to enjoy cocktails and dancing, while listening of singing karaoke-style — wherein people sing along to pre-recorded accompaniment using a microphone. Admission is limited to American Legion members, or a guest of a member. 

LATIN NIGHT DANCE, 8:30 p.m.-midnight, One World Brewery West, 520 Haywood Road, West Asheville. The event will begin with a dance lesson, from 8:30 to 9 p.m. — and beginners are welcome. Following the lesson, an all-Latin dance ­— salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia and reggaeton ­ — will be held, featuring music by DJ Mtn Vibez. The cover charge is $5 cash.

Thursday, January 16

TEA TIME MEETING, noon, Bay Breeze Retaurant, 1830 Asheville Highway Hendersonville. The Asheville Tea Party will resume its Tea Time meetings at noon on the third Thursday of every month. 

HENDERSONVILLE BALLROOM DANCE CLUB DANCE, 6:30-8:45 p.m., Hedrick Rhodes Veterans Center (the old VFW), 900 N. Main St., Hendersonville. The Hendersonville Ballroom Dance Club will host what is billed as a “casual” ballroom dance. Music will be provided by DJ Gary Bills, who will play a variety of holiday dance tunes, including swing (east  and west coast), waltz, tango, rumba, cha-cha and foxtrot. There also will be a mixer. There will be no dance lesson. All dancers are asked to use the upper back entrance of the building. Admission is $5.

PAUL LIFORD ACOUSTIC CONCERT/DANCE, 8-10 p.m., The Dugout, 430 N. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. Paul Liford, lead singer of the band Fine Line, and a guest, will perform in an acoustic show for listening and/or dancing.

PLEASURE CHEST CONCERT, 8-10 p.m., 5 Walnut Wine Bar, 5 Walnut St., downtown Asheville. The band Pleasure Chest will perform.

Friday, January 17

RANDOMONIUM CONCERT/DANCE, 7 p.m., 3 Friends Bar & Grill, 2801 Wade Hampton Boulevard, Taylors, S.C. The Greenville-based band Randomonium — billed as playing “a mystical cocktail of wondrously varied songs from all decades and genres” — will perform music for listening and/or dancing.

MOTHER’S FINEST CONCERT, 7:30-9 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 East North Broad Street, Walhalla, S.C. The band Mother’s Finest will perform its “Too Funk for Rock, Too Rock for Funk” show in performances at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 18. For tickets, which are $49-$64 (including fees), visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS CONCERT/DANCE, 8 p.m., Oklawaha Brewing Co., 147 1st Avenue East, downtown Hendersonville. The Circuit Breakers will perform music for listening and/or dancing.

KARAOKE/DANCING GALA, 8 p.m.-midnight, downstairs, American Legion Post 77, 216 4th Avenue West, downtown Hendersonville. Attendees are invited to enjoy cocktails and dancing, while listening or singing, karaoke-style — wherein people sing along to pre-recorded accompaniment using a microphone. 

HOT AS A PEPPER CONCERT/DANCE, 8:30-11:30 p.m., Old School Tavern, 23 Rushmore Drive, Greenville. Hot As a Pepper, a Greenville-based party and dance band, will perform music for listening and/or dancing. The group bills itself as playing “the best in current to classic dance music, including rock, disco, funk, pop, Top 40, and a selection of R&B, Motown, beach, soul, country, jazz and more.”

Saturday, January 18

MLK JR. PRAYER BREAKFAST/ASHEVILLE, 8 a.m., Crowne Plaza Resort, 1 Resort Drive, West Asheville. The 44th Annual MLK JR. Prayer Breakfast will feature guest speaker Jonathan McCoy — and the program’s theme will be “Let Us Rise Up With a Greater Readiness and Determination.” McCoy is director of the Center for Diversity, Equity and a history instructor at Mars Hill University. Besides serving as interim pastor at Mount Olive Baptist Chuch in Mars Hill, McCoy is the vice president of the Dr. Luther King Jr. Association of Asheville & Buncombe County and chair of its Community Outreach Providing Empowerment Program. He also is a board member of the Wilma Dykeman Legacy, a leadship team member of the Madison County Racial Justic Coalition, and a member of the Madison County Rotary Club. For tickets, visit online at www.MLKAsheville.org/activitis/prayer-breakfast.

BLUE HAVEN BALL, 5-10 p.m., The Main Event, 125 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. The Blue Haven Ball will be held, “so get ready to dress to impress in your best blue attire and dance the night away with friends and loved ones,” a promotion stated. “Our event will feature live music, delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere that will make this night unforgettable....” Al proceeds will be donated to first-responders who lost their lives in Hurricane Helene. For tickets, which are $50, visit online at www.themaineventwnc.com, or call (828) 974-1281.

GASPARILLA PIRATE PARTY, 5-10 p.m., Fireforge Crafted Beer, 311 E. Washington St., Greenville, S.C. The Gasparilla Pirate Party will feature performances by the bands Randomonium and All Apologies. Randomonium is billed as playing “a mystical cocktail of wondrously varied songs from all decades and genres.” All Apologies’ website says the group plays “the best of the 90’s and early ‘00s.” In a separate posting, All Apologies is billed as a “grunge prom” band.

KISS TRIBUTE SHOW, 7:30 p.m., Newton Performing Arts Center, 60 W 6th St., Newton. Mini Kiss will perform a musical salute to the iconic band Kiss. Regarding the show, a promotion noted, “The Fatale brothers, original creators of MiniKiss, the Hottest Littlest Band in the World…. I would like to start by saying I had the biggest love for ‘80s/hair-metal bands and my first love was Kiss, and Gene Simmons. Kiss was created in NYC and Minikiss was born in NYC. MiniKiss was born on Sept. 1, 1996 ,when I was moving from one location to another. As I was putting away my albums/vinyl, I came across my non-opened “Alive Kiss” album, which, to this day, has the ‘Original Lick on Tattoos’ and separate pictures of each member. When I looked at the album, I had this huge thought of having a Little People Kiss Tribute Band. So my first gig was Oct. 30, 1996, when a friend that I always worked for, Andy Hirsh, greatest guy and manager of a club called The Lava Lounge in New York City...  said to me, ‘I need something different this year.’ So I told him about my cool idea Mini Kiss, ‘it’s a tribute band made up of four little people dressed up like Kiss.’ His response: ‘Joey, that’s an awesome idea.’ So I had a month to gather four guys and come up with costumes and make-up. Craig, Mike, Victor and I got all these ‘80s clothes, ripped some of them up and threw some paint on our faces. It was corny but the clothes were cool. We get to the venue; have a couple of drinks before show time to loosen up. Our first show was lip-synching to a Kiss CD and playing blow-up guitars like you see at parties. We stood on top of the bar and we sung five songs from the actual Kiss CD. We were a hit!! Cops had to come because the place was mobbed, but they loved us, too!! We took some pictures outside with them. It was so cool... The legacy continues 27 years later.” Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. For tickets, which are $25-$30, visit online at www.NCAuditorium.com.

RANKY TANKY CONCERT, 8 p.m., Newberry Opera House, 1201 McKibben St., Newberry, S.C. The group Ranky Tanky will perform in concert. Regarding the show, a promotion noted, “Ranky Tanky revives the soulful sounds of Gullah culture, with their vibrant blend of jazz, blues, gospel, and R&B, creating an uplifting and engaging musical experience that honors their rich heritage.” For tickets, visit online at www.NewberryOperaHouse.com

Sunday, January 19

ETHICAL HUMANIST SOCIETY MEETING, 2:30-4 p.m., Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood Road, North Asheville. Ty Jones will present a program on the “The Paradox of Persuasion” during the monthly meeting of the Ethical Humanist Society of Asheville. The meeting also will be available via Zoom.   

RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER CONCERT, 3 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 212 Tusculum Boulevard, Greeneville, Tenn. Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder will perform in concert. A promotion added, “Fifteen-time Grammy Award-winner Ricky Skaggs’ career is easily among the most significant in recent country music history. The legendary guitarist Chet Atkins once credited Skaggs with “single-handedly saving country music.” His life’s path has taken him to various musical genres, from where it all began in bluegrass music, to striking out on new musical journeys, while still leaving his musical roots intact. In the past decade, he has been honored with inductions into the Gospel Music Association’s Gospel Music Hall of Fame and the Musicians Hall of Fame. In 2018, Skaggs was also awarded membership into the National Fiddler Hall of Fame, the IBMA Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, and country music’s greatest honor, the Country Music Hall of Fame. Ricky struck his first chords on a mandolin over 60 years ago, and he continues to do his part to lead the recent roots revival in music. Ricky Skaggs is always forging ahead with cross-cultural, genre-bending musical ideas and inspirations.” For tickets, visit online at www.NPACGreeneville.com.

BALLROOM DANCE/LESSON, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Weaverville Community Center, 60 Lake Shore Drive, Weaverville. From 5:30-6 p.m., Danzn Guys & Gals will offer a lesson in east coast swing. A ballroom dance — “to all genres” — will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. 

Monday, January 20

CLASSIC RADIO CLUB LISTENING SESSION, 2 p.m., Polk Campus of Isothermal Community College, 1255 W. Mills St., Columbus. The Western North Carolina Classic Radio Clubmeets on the third Monday to listen to old-time radio shows that aired during the “Golden-Age” of radio. All are welcome. Admission is free. 

SHAG DANCE, 6-9 p.m., Outdoorsmen Inc. (Event Center), 4535 Highway 11 West, Blountville, Tenn. The Mountain Empire Shag Society will host a shag dance. Gate and doors open at 6 p.m., with the dance held from 7 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 for nonmembers.

BLUE MONDAY WITH MR. JIMMY, 7-9 p.m., The Joint Next Door, 1185 Charlotte Highway, Fairview. “Blue Monday With Mr. Jimmy” will be held, featuring the Chicago-style blues singer-guitarist.

Tuesday, January 21

THE LADS AVL CONCERT, 6-8:30 p.m., The Joint Next Door, 1185 Charlotte Highway., Fairview. The Lads AVL will perform.  

THE SADDLE UP SOIREE COUNTRY NIGHT, 6-9 p.m., The Fitzgerald, 69 Pacolet St., downtown Tryon. The Saddle Up Soiree Country Night, billed as “A Masci Family Pop-Up Event,” will be held. Country music will be performed by the Masci Family. Food and drink will be available for purchase. For tickets, which are $20, visit online at www.mascifamilypopups.com. (For groups of 10 or more, the cost is $15 person.)

SHAG DANCE/ASHEVILLE, 6:30-9 p.m., the Chop House Asheville (at Four Points by Sheraton), 22 Woodfin St., downtown Asheville. The Mountain Shag Club will host its weekly shag dance to Carolina beach music provided by rotating DJs. Cost is $7. 

JOHN HENRYS CONCERT/DANCE, 8 p.m., 5 Walnut Wine Bar, 5 West Walnut St., Asheville. The John Henrys will perform music for listening and/or dancing.

Wednesday, January 22

JASON DECRISTOFARO’S JAZZ NIGHT, 6-8 p.m., Southern Appalachian Brewery, 822 Locust St., Hendersonville. The SAB hosts Jason DeCristofaro’s Jazz Night show every Wednesday. DeCristofaro, a multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator based in Asheville, performs on stage with his band. Among the jazz jam’s highlights, DeCristofaro, on occasion, will invite from the crowd a musician (who brings along a guitar or horn)  and/or a vocalist (who often has sheet music with the lyrics) onto the stage to perform with the band — often wowing the audience. Admission is free. 

Thursday, January 23

HENDERSONVILLE BALLROOM CLUB’S DANCE, 6:30-8:45 p.m., Hedrick Rhodes Veterans Center (the old VFW), 900 N. Main St., Hendersonville. The Hendersonville Ballroom Dance Club will host what is billed as a “‘50s dance theme” ballroom dance. Music will be provided by DJ Gary Bills, who will play a variety of holiday dance tunes, including swing (east  and west coast), waltz, tango, rumba, cha-cha and foxtrot. There also will be a mixer. There will be no dance lesson. All dancers are asked to use the upper back entrance of the building. Admission is $5.

SOUTHERN SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 East North Broad Street, Walhalla, S.C. WPAC will present “Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis,” featuring Maggie Rose, Gabe Dixon and David Ryan Harris. A promotion stated, “Join us for a very special evening of storytelling and song as South Carolina’s very own Patrick Davis brings three of the immensely talented performers showcased on ‘Season One’ of his brand-new public television series to Harbison Theatre. ‘Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis,’ which airs this fall across the country on over 300 APT/PBS stations, showcases the incredible musical talent of some of the Southeast’s most unique and accomplished singer-songwriters on stage together, trading stories, performances and anecdotes that only happen during a live show. Joining Patrick for this very special evening will be Big Loud Recording artist Maggie Rose, piano-playing extraordinaire Gabe Dixon, and legendary Atlanta musician and artist David Ryan Harris. Patrick, Maggie, Gabe and David Ryan are all old friends, who due to their own touring and recording schedules rarely get the opportunity to play together, so this should be a beautiful night of both music and friendship.” For tickets, which are $47-$87 (including fees), visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com.

Friday, January 24

THE SWINGIN’ MEDALLIONS CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 East North Broad Street, Walhalla, S.C. The Swingin’ Medallions, a band billed as a “Southern tradition since 1962,” will perform in concert. A promotion stated, “The Swingin’ Medallions are a beach music/party band based out of Greenwood, S.C., whose musical roots came from listening to the early rhythm and blues acts. After a few years of touring colleges from the Carolinas to the Louisiana Bayou, John McElrath, one of the bands co-founders, took the group to a studio to record ‘Double Shot (of My Baby’s Love).’ The song has sold millions of copies and become a party classic for decades. ‘She Drives Me Out Of My Mind’ and ‘Hey, Hey, Baby’ were Top 40 hits in the ‘60s, but ‘Double Shot’ remains the band’s signature song. The members of the Swingin’ Medallions have changed over the past 30 years, but it has always included eight members with at least a four-piece horn section. The high-energy party style stage performance of the first Medallions has been passed down to the band that performs today. How does a band endure the generations? The group’s signature high-energy style delights audiences of all ages. Their act, as well as their music, is indeed timeless. The band was founded in 1962 by John McElrath and now includes his sons, Shawn and Shane; plus Joe Morris, the original drummer, who makes as many shows as he can! Featuring an ever-popular horn section, the group effectively blends the sounds and music of yesterday and today. (The late) Lewis Grizzard (Southern humorist and writer) labeled the Swingin’ Medallions as “The party band of the South,” a moniker that has become forever synonymous with the Medallions’ name. Grizzard (years ago) wrote in a nationally syndicated column, ‘Even today, when I hear “Double Shot of My Baby’s Love,” it makes me want to stand outside in the hot sun with a milkshake cup full of beer in one hand and a slightly drenched coed in the other.” For tickets, which are $34-$49 (including fees), visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com.

Saturday, January 25

THE BAND PERRY CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 212 Tusculum Boulevard, Greeneville, Tenn. The Band Perry: A Homecoming — With Josiah and the Bonnevilles will perform in concert. A promotion added, “Grammy Award-winning The Band Perry burst onto the scene as an unstoppable presence in modern country music, selling two and a half million albums, twelve million singles and racking up over a billion total song streams. Written by Kimberly Perry, their groundbreaking crossover 9X Platinum No. 1 single ‘If I Die Young’ off their self-titled debut album (released Oct. 12, 2010) reached No.1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs and Hot AC charts,  Top 15 on the Billboard 100 and garnered more than 100 million video views and counting. The album also featured the No. 1 hit ‘All Your Life’ and Top 5 (No. 2) hit ‘You Lie.’ Their follow up album-Pioneer-reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and featured ‘Better Dig Two,’ ‘Done,’ ‘Don’t Let Me Be Lonely’ and ‘Chainsaw,’ cementing the band’s status domestically and internationally. With sold-out world tours, six No. 1 singles, numerous Platinum and Gold singles, award wins and nominations,  the Grammy Award-winning band reunited in 2025 with original band members Kimberly and Reid Perry, adding celebrated musician and fellow family member Johnny, and are set to release new music in 2025 — timed to the band’s 15-year anniversary since their debut album.” For tickets, which are $75 (orchestra), $55 (mezzanine) or $35 (balcony) plus $3.50 ticket fees, visit online at www.NPACGreeneville.com.

LYNYRD SKYNYRD TRIBUTE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 East North Broad Street, Walhalla, S.C. SkynFolks – The Authentic Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience will perform a musical salute to the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Regarding the show, a promotion stated, “‘Authentic’...When it comes to the tribute band world, that word seems to be used a bit more than it should be. SkynFolks was formed as a result of some very devoted musicians who wanted to bring a little more to the game than what they’d seen of Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. They also knew how discriminating and tough real Skynyrd fans can be, so they set their performance bar high... really high. The members of SkynFolks are seasoned professional musicians who have played with national acts like Leon Russell, the Allman Brothers Band, KISS, Collective Soul, and many others. However, from the very beginning, every member of SkynFolks knew that this was something different from anything they’d done before. Brought together by luck, fate, devotion and drive, the members of SkynFolks pledged to create a band that would exactly reproduce the music of Lynyrd Skynyrd.... No improvisation allowed — every part had to be played exactly like the original recordings. Constant practice honed the music like a razor. What emerged when they finished has never been done since the days of the original Skynyrd lineup. Totally authentic, accurate renditions of the music on the first 5 Lynyrd Skynyrd albums.” For tickets, which are $39-$49 (including fees), visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com.

Wednesday, January 29

LEADERSHIP ASHEVILLE FORUM, 11:45 a.m., Country Club of Asheville, 170 WIndsor Road, North Asheville. The LAF will feature what is billed as “a vital discussion with Lisa Raleigh and Renee Fortner on Hurricane Helene’s impact and the future of the French Broad River watershed.” A luncheon will begin at 11:45 a.m., with the program starting at noon. Tickets are $25 for LAF members — and $35 for non-members. For reservations, which are required by noon Jan. 15, visit online at www.leadershipashevilleforum.com.  

Thursday, January 30

HENDERSONVILLE BALLROOM DANCE CLUB DANCE, 6:30-8:45 p.m., Hedrick Rhodes Veterans Center (the old VFW), 900 N. Main St., Hendersonville. The Hendersonville Ballroom Dance Club will host what is billed as a “‘casual” ballroom dance. Music will be provided by DJ Gary Bills, who will play a variety of holiday dance tunes, including swing (east  and west coast), waltz, tango, rumba, cha-cha and foxtrot. There also will be a mixer. There will be no dance lesson. All dancers are asked to use the upper back entrance of the building. Admission is $5.

TATE ADDIS BENEFIT ORGAN RECITAL, 7 p.m., St. James Episcopal Church , 766 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Tate Addis will perform his organ recital featuring prominent works of Austrian composer Franz Schmidt. The recital will be followed a reception in Stillwell Hall. Tate is the associate director of music and organist at First Baptist Church of Asheville. “All proceeds from this recital, including Mr. Addis’ fee, will benefit the Asheville Cathedral of All Souls’ music ministry” in Biltmore Village, a press release noted. 

Friday, January 31

GENE WATSON & FAREWELL PARTY BAND CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 East North Broad Street, Walhalla, S.C. Gene Watson and The Farewell Party Band will perform what Watson is billing as “real country music” in his “2025 All the Hits & More” tour. A promotion added, “This masterful country stylist, known as ‘The Singer’s Singer,’ has been thrilling audiences for many years. It is difficult to imagine the world of country music without the vast contribution which Gene Watson has made to it. Between his major record label debut on Capitol Records in 1975 and the present day, Gene Watson has excelled with his traditional slant within country music. The music of Gene Watson is part of the very constitution of country music. It is in Gene Watson’s country music recordings that the tradition of heartfelt, genuine country music is preserved for all-time. Gene Watson’s ‘Beautiful Country’ speaks for itself. It is a music of the people, for the people and ultimately by one of the people. For those of us who love traditional country music, we have a lot to be thankful to Gene Watson for. Watson’s long career has included five No. 1 hits, 21 hits reaching the Top 10 and 48 charted singles. Gene was invited to become a member of The Grand Ole Opry in January 2020.” For tickets, which are $52-$62 (including fees), visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com.

THE FRONTMEN CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 212 Tusculum Boulevard, Greeneville, Tenn. The Frontmen will perform in concert. A promotion noted, “The Frontmen, comprised of three former lead singers, Larry Stewart (Restless Heart), Richie McDonald (formerly of Lonestar), and Tim Rushlow (formerly of Little Texas), is country music’s hottest new supergroup. The men have already mastered the stage, succeeded on radio, and nightly take sold-out audiences on a rollercoaster of ‘90s nostalgic smash hits then transcend their past hit parade with fresh new & original songs that are unmistakably The Frontmen today! They have 30 No. 1 hits, have sold 30 million albums, and are the soundtrack to every Friday night honkytonk, first kiss, and broken heart for the last 30 years. Fans sing the words to every song in every set. The group will showcase their massive catalog of hits, including ‘The Bluest Eyes in Texas,’ ‘Amazed,’ ‘God Blessed Texas’ and many more. Each man has a turn in the spotlight splitting vocal duties but all three sing nonstop throughout the entire set showcasing harmonies that only this combination of talent could achieve. Audiences receive a night of boot-scootin’, heart-popping nostalgia.” For tickets, which are $40-$50, visit online at www.NPACGreeneville.com.

Saturday, February 1

TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES SHOW, 7:30 p.m., Newton Performing Arts Center, 60 W. 6th St., Newton. EAGLEMANIA: The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band will perform a musical salute to the Eagles. For tickets, which are $35-$45, visit online at www.NCAuditorium.com.

Friday, February 7

JOHN BROWN’S “LITTLE” BIG BAND FEATURING SHANA TUCKER CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melros Avenue, Tryon. John Brown’s “Little” Big Band Featuring Shana Tucker will perform in concert. Regarding the show, a promotion noted, “A jazz ensemble made even more powerful with the riveting vocals of Shana Tucker... Grammy-nominated John Brown is a jazz bassist, composer, educator and actor. He currently serves as vice povost for the arts, director of the jazz program and professor of the practice of music at Duke University, The ‘little’ Big Band features 11 musicians, plus the uber-talented vocalist Shana Tucker. Shana has a voice that defies categorization, effortlessly traversing genres and evoking a range of emotions. Her soul-stirring performances are imbued with passion and authenticity, drawing listeners into her nuanced world of song-storytelling and musical explorations.” For tickets, visit online at www.tryonarts.org/signature-series.

Saturday, February 8

“ELECTRIC AVENUE: THE ‘80S MTV EXPERIENCE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m.,  Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 212 Tusculum Boulevard, Greeneville, Tenn. The tribute show, “Electric Avenue: The ‘80s MTV Experience,” will be performed. Regarding the show, a promotion stated, “We don’t get to repeat even one minute of our time here, but what if you could experience all of the youthful energy and sonic celebration that was 1980s’ new wave and radio pop? Every sound. Every nuance. Every time. That’s ‘Electric Avenue’... An ‘Electric Avenue’ show is a high-energy space that reminds people of a time when they came home from school, turned MTV on, and listened with open ears and an open heart; conjuring first dates, first cars, prom nights, weekend movies, meeting friends at the mall, while finding a sense of fashion and an identity all their own. At an ‘Electric Avenue’ show, ‘80s music is as alive and well today as it has ever been... They have chosen to perform the songs of the ‘80s MTV-era because they love them as much as you do.” For tickets, which are $30-$40, visit online at www.NPACGreeneville.com.

JIMMY BUFFETT TRIBUTE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Walhalla Performing Arts Center, 101 East North Broad Street, Walhalla, S.C. The A1A Official Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band will perform a musical salute to Jimmy Buffett in a “Wasted Away in ‘Walhalla’-ville! show. For tickets, visit online at www.WalhallaPAC.com. 

Thursday, February 20

”MIXTAPE! THE BEST OF THE 60’s, 70’s & 80’s (Vol.2)” PRODUCTION, 2 and 7:30 p.m., mainstage, Flat Rock Playhouse, 2661 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock. The FRP will perform “Mixtape! The Best of the ‘60s, ‘70s & ‘80s (Vol. 2)” Feb. 20-23. Regarding the show, the FRP stated, “‘It’s February, which means ‘the boys’ are back… again! From the same outstanding musical talent who brought you the ‘Music of Queen,’ ‘the Eagles, and ‘the Beatles,’ ‘Mixtape! Vol 2: The Best of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s’ is back by oh-so-popular demand! Shake off the winter blues with a red-hot rockin’ playlist featuring all-new hits you know and love. You ‘dig it?’ ‘Let’s boogie!’ ‘Like, totally!’” For tickets, which are $48, $58 and $68. visit online at www.FlatRockPlayhouse.org.

Thursday, March 6

“SHADES OF BUBLE: A THREE-MAN TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL BUBLE80” PRODUCTION, 2 and 7:30 p.m., mainstage, Flat Rock Playhouse, 2661 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock. The FRP will perform “Shades of Bublé: A Three-Man Tribute to Michael Bublé” March 6-8. Regarding the show, the FRP stated, “‘Shades of Bublé brings the swinging standards and pop hits of Michael Bublé to the stage in an unforgettable high-energy concert event. This act consistently wows audiences around the country with exciting harmonies, smooth choreography, and charming good looks, combining big-band standards from the jazz era, classic hits from the ‘50s/’60s/’70s, as well as Billboard chart-toppers from today in a high-energy show that generates standing ovations from sold-out crowds.” For tickets, which are $48, $58 and $68. visit online at www.FlatRockPlayhouse.org.