We’re already three months into 2026, and with severe weather and ongoing political issues tackling our nation, people are craving those fun, carefree moments again. And what’s better than dwelling on the troubles this country faces? Concerts. Several of them. 2026 has officially kicked off a party with artists dusting off the stage as they prepare for millions to sing along with them. So, here’s a list of some upcoming concerts making their way around the U.S. in the next few months to kickstart your spring and summer the right way.
Cardi B (Feb. 11 – April 18)
Image courtesy of Instagram: @littlemissdrama
The Bodega Baddie is back in the music conversation, and yes, I’m talking about the legendary, funny, and outspoken Cardi B. After having fans waiting nearly seven years for new music to blast, Cardi dropped her sophomore album last year, Sept. 9, 2025, “Am I The Drama?” which scored a No. 1 on Billboard 200. And, of course, in support of the album release, she announced her Little Miss Drama Tour, which had all of her fans excited and tickets selling out fast. The tour has kicked off in Palm Desert, Calif., and has moved to its second night in Inglewood, Calif., with surprise guests taking the stage with her. We’re excited to see what else La Cardi has to bring on her first headline tour.
Lady Gaga (Feb. 14 – April 13)
One round of stage appearances isn’t enough for this acclaimed legend, Mother Monster, also known as Lady Gaga. After much anticipation for her album, Mayhem, the 14-time Grammy winner has set out on the second part of her “Mayhem Ball” tour, taking over North America with her strong storytelling and intimate experience for her fans. Twenty-one dates have been added to the list, with Mother Monster visiting cities that she hasn’t stopped by during her first run of the Mayhem Ball. Atlanta, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Austin, be on the lookout for the mayhem. After her 2025 MTV performance, fans are fully aware of what to expect from her on stage: the unique stage designs, symbolic fashion, catchy lyrics, and high-functioning fashion.
Bruno Mars (April 10 – Oct. 17)
Image courtesy by Bruno Mars
Retro showmanship plus massive hits in different genres equals the most popular artist to come out of Honolulu, Hawaii—Bruno Mars. His rise to fame was expected with his essential albums, “Unorthodox Jukebox” and “Doo-Wops & Hooligans.” So, fans are excited for his new era, “The Romantic,” coming out Feb. 27, 2026. And in correspondence with one of the most anticipated albums this year, Bruno is taking on his first major stadium tour after a decade. Tour begins April 10, and will be accompanied by major artists like Leon Thomas, RAYE, Victoria Monet, and Bruno’s Silk Sonic duo, Anderson.Paak as DJ Pee.Wee. And who can forget Bruno’s iconic band, The Hooligans, with their sensual dance moves, melodic instruments, and cohesive style.
Ariana Grande (June 6 – Aug. 23)
Now, I’m not an expert in astrological phenomena compared to others, but I am a fan of Ariana Grande’s contemporary R&B and Pop album, Eternal Sunshine. The vocals, production, and storytelling presented on the album exceeded expectations, and so did her announcement for her first tour since 2019, The Eternal Sunshine Tour. Although her relationship with music hasn’t been the greatest these past few years because of difficulties in her life, Ariana plans to restore faith in her relationship with pop, and this tour is set to help with that. The tour will be shorter compared to her other tours. Ariana and her team are looking forward to healing and celebrating pop music’s greatest voices.
J. Cole (July 10 – Dec. 12)
Image courtesy of Instagram: realcoleworld
Of course, I had to end this with my G.O.A.T in Hip Hop. The humble king who gave the world hit after hit like “Wet Dreamz,” “Crooked Smile,” and “She Knows,” and has currently stirred his fans into a frenzy since he may not make music anymore—Jermaine Lamarr Cole, best known as J. Cole. Feb. 6 will forever be listed as the greatest day in 2026 when Cole dropped his anticipated album, “The Fall-Off,” and it’s been in rotation ever since. Before announcing his upcoming tour, Cole took to the streets on a mini trunk tour, meeting students at HBCUs across the East Coast, selling CDs, interacting with fans, recording music videos, and riding around on his bike. Even a little rendition of Where’s Waldo, now called Where’s Cole, is being played as fans try finding his next location. Fans are excited for the tour of the century and can’t wait to hear “The Let Our” in person.
