Music enthusiasts in Germantown are in for a treat as the Performing Arts Center is set to host two remarkable concerts honoring iconic bands. The venue will pay tribute to the legendary Big Star and the Grateful Dead with performances by renowned musicians.

A special event dedicated to Big Star will take place on July 19, led by the band's last surviving member, Jody Stephens. This concert brings together an impressive lineup of artists, including Mike Mills from R.E.M., Jon Auer of The Posies, Pat Sansone from Wilco, and Chris Stamey of The dB’s. Together, they form the Big Star Quintet, which will perform classic tracks from the band's influential 1970s albums such as “#1 Record,” “Radio City,” and “Big Star’s Third.” Meanwhile, fans of the Grateful Dead can look forward to a January 23 performance by Don Was and the Pan-Detroit Ensemble. They will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Grateful Dead's 1975 album “Blues for Allah” by playing it in full during the first set, followed by their own original compositions in the second set.

These upcoming events not only highlight the enduring legacy of these legendary bands but also emphasize the importance of preserving and celebrating musical history. Through these concerts, audiences have the opportunity to experience timeless music performed by talented artists who honor the original creators' spirit. Tickets for both shows can be purchased exclusively online starting Friday morning via the GPAC website, with phone and in-person options becoming available starting Monday. Such opportunities remind us of the power of music to unite communities and inspire new generations of listeners.