New Music November 2023: Local Boston Concerts, New Album Releases
Check out new albums from Chris Stapleton and Jungkook and Lil Uzi Vert hits the stage at MGM Music Hall at Fenway
What’s Hot in Music This Month: New Albums, Local Concerts
Check out new albums from Chris Stapleton and Jungkook and Lil Uzi Vert hits the stage at MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Welcome back, Terriers, to our monthly column, What’s Hot in Music This Month.
Thanksgiving break is fast approaching and while temperatures may be dropping, the music scene is heating up. Jungkook releases his debut solo album, Golden, and Dolly Parton reinvents herself with her first-ever rock and roll album, Rockstar. And you won’t want to miss local live performances from Tinashe and Lil Uzi Vert. There’s a lot to be excited about with what’s ahead in November, so let’s dive in.
New releases
Golden, Jungkook
Best known as a member of the global K-pop phenomenon BTS, South Korean singer Jungkook is now stepping out on his own with his debut solo album, Golden. He became the first South Korean singer to have a song on the FIFA World Cup soundtrack, even performing his hit song “Dreamers,” at the 2022 opening ceremony. His music takes inspiration from pop and EDM, creating a blend that is instantly catchy and danceable. The first single from Golden, “Seven,” featuring Latto, broke streaming records and debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. New and old fans alike are sure to find something to love in this new project from one of the biggest stars in music today.
Blanket, Kevin Abstract
Rising to fame as a founding member of the musical group BROCKHAMPTON, Kevin Abstract has since stepped out on his own, releasing three solo albums. Toeing the line between alt-rock, rap, and electronic music, the singer/songwriter is known for pushing the boundaries of what a genre can be. His music details his upbringing in a strict Mormon household while grappling with his queer identity, but with his trademark humor. The singer wrote in a press release that he wanted Blanket to resemble a Nirvana or Modest Mouse album with the kick of a rap project. This is clearly the start of a new era for this one-of-a-kind musician.
Higher, Chris Stapleton
Chris Stapleton was working toward an engineering degree at Vanderbilt University when he dropped out to pursue a music career. Now, he’s one of the country’s most popular and critically acclaimed country acts, the recipient of eight Grammy awards, and with a string of writing credits and collaborations with industry heavyweights like Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, and Sheryl Crow. On November 10, Stapleton is dropping his new album, Higher, which features his signature raspy vocals and polished country production, but with a new refinement that can only be achieved through experience. New and old fans alike will find something to love with Higher.
Heaven Knows, PinkPantheress
English singer PinkPantheress is a certified Gen Z darling. In just the past few months, she’s released “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2,” the platinum single featuring breakout star Ice Spice, plus the song “Angel” for the box office hit Barbie. Those successes alone might lead some artists to take a breather, but PinkPantheress shows no signs of slowing down. On November 10, the versatile musician will release her debut album, Heaven Knows. The songs were written over the last two years and reveal the star grappling with grief and loneliness. Embracing elements of dark pop, hyperpop, and electronic music, PinkPantheress has already proven to be a once-in-a-generation talent, and Heaven Knows is further proof of that.
Rockstar, Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton needs no introduction. The multitalented legend can do it all: platinum-selling albums, movies and TV specials, a theme park and other business ventures, and more. Since the release of her debut solo album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967, Parton has gone on to release dozens of critically acclaimed albums and is one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Best known as a country singer, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022 and is now releasing her first-ever rock album, Rockstar. Featuring collaborations with musical stars Elton John, Sheryl Crow, Paul McCartney, Miley Cyrus, and more, Rockstar—Parton’s 49th studio album—is one you don’t want to miss. Check it out on November 17.
Upcoming concerts
Tinashe
How does one even begin to describe Tinashe? She’s a pop R&B powerhouse with the dancing prowess of a seasoned pro. Her live performances are a spectacle to behold, and happily, she’s bringing her numerous talents to the Roadrunner stage. Her recent album, BB/Ang3l, was released independently and sees the star embracing a darker sound, with standout tracks like “Talk To Me Nice” showcasing her beautiful voice and versatile singing style. Tinashe and her music truly come alive on stage, so get your tickets now.
Gayle
Pop singer-songwriter Gayle made a name for herself on Tiktok with the smash hit song “abcdefu,” which peaked at number one on the Billboard Global 200 chart and was nominated for Song of the Year at the 2023 Grammy Awards. Though she’s only 19, she already has a devoted fan base and has performed for huge crowds, including as an opening act for Taylor Swift’s globetrotting, record-breaking Eras Tour. Don’t miss your chance to see this rising star when she comes to Brighton Music Hall November 7.
A R I Z O N A
This pop rock band formed right here in Boston when its three members—Zachary Charles, Nathan Esquite, and David Labuguen—were attending Berklee College of Music and Emerson College. Since releasing their debut studio album, Gallery, in 2017, which included “Oceans Away,” their hit song that went viral, the three have played across the country, introducing even more fans to their music. The band is now embarking on tour in support of their third studio album, the self-titled A R I Z O N A, which came out in May, and they’re returning to Boston, appropriately enough, on November 9.
Shakey Graves
Shakey Graves (the stage name of Texas-born Americana musician Alejandro Rose-Garcia), grew in popularity after his 2011 debut as the “official busker” of the Edward Sharpe and Mumford & Sons Railroad Revival Tour. Playing for attendees as they entered the venues showcased his unique one-man-band setup and honed his ability to connect with audiences. He’s found a dedicated following through his blend of blues, rock and roll, folk, and country music, and he’s bringing his incredible talents to the Roadrunner stage later this month.
Lil Uzi Vert
Rap legend Lil Uzi Vert will take the stage at MGM Music Hall at Fenway this month. His trademark emo rap style is influenced by rock music, and this blend is beloved by fans worldwide. With 7 top-10 hits—one even reaching the coveted number-one spot—Lil Uzi Vert is a musical force to be reckoned with. He’s touring in support of his newest album, Pink Tape, which came out in June. His live performances are known for their high energy and fun atmosphere, and you don’t want to miss your chance to see the star this month.
This Series
Also in
What’s Hot In Music This Month
-
October 1, 2024
What’s Hot in Music October: New Albums, Local Concerts
-
September 12, 2024
What’s Hot in Music September: New Albums, Local Concerts
-
August 2, 2024
What’s Hot in Music August: New Albums, Local Concerts
Comments & Discussion
Boston University moderates comments to facilitate an informed, substantive, civil conversation. Abusive, profane, self-promotional, misleading, incoherent or off-topic comments will be rejected. Moderators are staffed during regular business hours (EST) and can only accept comments written in English. Statistics or facts must include a citation or a link to the citation.