While Hurricane Helene put much on hold – the music in the Asheville area never stopped. Artists lent their voices to fundraising efforts, benefit concerts and free shows aimed at consolation and connection.
In the wake of the storm, that song is playing out louder than ever. Music continues to power the path toward healing and recovery, offering a critical opportunity to support cherished venues, local musicians and Asheville’s community.
Concert Halls across the region have started offering free or pay-what-you-can shows, like White Horse Black Mountain and Pisgah Brewing, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of live music and connection. Many of Asheville’s most iconic performance spaces, like The Grey Eagle and The Orange Peel, are also hosting benefit concerts to support local relief efforts. On Nov. 13, the Grey Eagle will host a touring benefit show called, “The Old Marshall Jail Ballad Swap.” The casual “front porch” gathering brings together ballad singers from across the region to share stories and songs that have been passed down for generations.
Asheville native and singer-songwriter MJ Lenderman will perform two back-to-back shows at the Orange Peel on Dec. 20 and 21. All proceeds from sales of his tour’s t-shirt will be donated to mutual aid and flood relief efforts. Concertgoers are also encouraged to stop by the merch table for information on ways to donate directly.
Beyond the immediate wave of shows aimed at recovery, the stacked marquees around town signal a steady drumbeat of national acts continuing their Asheville tour stops in the months ahead. It’s a reflection of the city’s reputation as a home for music, dating back centuries.
In February, Grammy award-winning bluegrass musician Billy Strings is scheduled to perform six shows at Harrah’s Cherokee Center. Other big acts scheduled to take up local stages include Ani DiFranco, Soccer Mommy, and Chris Thile.
It’s important to keep in mind that some areas that were heavily impacted by flooding need more time and support. Neighborhoods and towns, including parts of the River Arts District, Biltmore Village and Swannanoa, have a longer road to recovery, so checking status online, calling ahead and making sure roads are open is strongly advised before traveling to these areas.
Music in the wake of Hurricane Helene is an open invitation for listeners from all over to be part of the city’s song of renewal.
Plan Ahead: Upcoming Concerts and Music Festivals
Drive By Truckers – Nov. 7 & 8, at the Orange Peel
Mipso – Nov. 20 at the Orange Peel
Olive Klug – Nov. 20 at Grey Eagle
La Lom – Dec. 5 at Eulogy
The Wood Brothers with Jobi Riccio – Dec. 6 & 7 at the Orange Peel
Southern Culture on the Skids – Dec. 7 at Grey Eagle
MJ Lenderman & The Wind – Dec. 20 & 21 at the Orange Peel
RJD2 – Dec. 31 at the Orange Peel
Soccer Mommy and L’Rain – Jan. 23 at the Orange Peel
Carbon Leaf – Jan. 27 at Grey Eagle
Billy Strings – Feb. 6-8 and 14-16 at Harrah’s Cherokee Arena
Chatham Rabbits – Feb. 14 at Grey Eagle
Ani DiFranco – Mar. 15 at the Orange Peel
Asheville Symphony Orchestra with Erica Gabriel
Chris Thile & The Asheville Symphony – May 10 at Rabbit Rabbit
AVL Fest – July 1 at participating venues across town