Wednesday:
>> Vocalist Alice Smith (pictured) spent enough years in the District for us to consider her a D.C. artist. Now based in New York, the Grammy nominee made a name for herself on her solo debut, For Lovers, Dreamers & Me. She’ll be at the Birchmere with local rapper on the rise, Tabi Bonney. $25, 7:30 p.m.

>> The “Rap Leagues” series will be featuring a slew of emcees tonight, including X.O. and K-Beta, at Expo (1928 U Street NW) and Axum (1934 U Street NW). $5, 9 p.m.

Thursday:
>> Philly-based band Elevator Fight might not be quite on your radar but their lead singer, Zoe Kravitz, has some well-known parents. They’ll be at Liv. $5 in advance/$10 at the door, 8 p.m.

>> Soul rockers Martin Luther and Res will be performing at the Warehouse & Loft (411 New York Avenue NE). $20-$40 in advance, 8:30 p.m.

Friday:
>> “D.C. Follows Friday” showcases some of the D.M.V.’s best hip-hop talent. Slated to appear at Axum (1934 9th Street NW) are B. Sheba, Lyriciss, and DJ E-Boogie, among others. Free before 10 p.m./$5 after 10 p.m., 9 p.m.

>> The “AfroBeat for Ya Soul!” party is going down at Selam (1524 U Street NW) and will feature some of the best afro-beat and afro-soul you can find with the help of DJ Underdog. $1, 10 p.m.

>> The second installment of the “King of the Beltway” producer battle is going down at Jammin’ Java in Vienna. $12, 10 p.m.