Tuesday:
>> Mixtapes have become synonymous with launching the latest hip-hop artists and tunes, but Theophilus London proved the format can work for folks who don’t fit neatly into the stereotypical rapper box. The Brooklyn-based artist used his independent releases and mixes like I Want You to score a major label deal and an appearance on late night TV with Sara Quin of Tegan and Sara fame. He’ll be at the the U Street Music Hall with Ninjasonik, Roll Wit Us All Stars and Harry Hotter. $12 in advance / $15 at the door. 9 p.m.
Thursday:
>> The “Faces of Reality” tour, featuring singer Lisa McClendon, kicks off at Liv. Joining McClendon will be Jeff Murrell, CMO, Tre’ Thomas, TIA, Tamika Love Jones, Green Tea and David James. $10 in advance / $15 at the door. 9 p.m.
>> It’s “Afrobeat 4 Ya Soul” time again with DJ Underdog spinning upstairs and the band Heteru downstairs at Bossa. $5. 9 p.m.
Friday:
>> The “Beat Grinder” series returns. Slated to perform as a part of the show at Liv are Nottz, Hezekiah, Born I and Shambhala, Slimkat 78, OOO, John Wesley Moon, Sam Lavine, Tim Hicks and Jon Laine. $10. 9 p.m.
>> The man responsible for producing Madonna’s early 1980s’ hit “Holiday,” Jellybean Benitez, will be the featured DJ at U Street Music Hall‘s “Red Fridays.” Joining him on the turntables will be D.C.’s legendary Sam Burns. Free before 11 p.m. / $10 after 11 p.m. 10 p.m. Note: Patrons ages 18 to 20 must purchase tickets in advance per venue policy.
Saturday:
>> Some of hip-hop’s more senior artists will be in town as a part of the “Legends of Hip-Hop” tour. Headlining the show at Constitution Hall is Salt-n-Pepa. Also slated to appear are Kurtis Blow, Doug E. Fresh, MC Lyte and Biz Markie. $55.55-$81.75. 7:30 p.m.
>> Last month saw the debut of the People’s Party’s “Axel F.” (as in Axel Foley) night at Liv and, as this writer can attest to, it was kind of epic. Emphasizing what can best be described as jheri curl funk and champagne soul, DJs Jahsonic, Adrian Loving and Stylus spin some of the lesser known, but nonetheless superb, tracks released between 1975 and 1985. Free. 10 p.m.
