Why Alabama Shakes at the Hollywood Bowl is Slated To Be One of the Best Concerts of the Season

If there’s one show this summer in LA that music-lovers absolutely can’t miss, it’s Alabama Shakes at the Hollywood Bowl. The beloved soul-rockin band has returned to the stage after an eight-year hiatus and will perform at the Hollywood Bowl on Wednesday, August 13. Joining the Alabama Shakes, and making for quite the rock show, are Shannon and The Clams. Tickets start at $45, but be on the lookout for a Grimy Goods ticket giveaway. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Instagram to be among the first to know when we drop the giveaway.

A Triumphant Return That Feels Timeless

Judging by all the praise from fans surrounding Alabama Shakes’ recent reunion shows at Chicago’s Salt Shed (July 15) and Red Rocks (July 20), their performances weren’t just long-awaited—it was electrifying. With shows boasting a 22-song setlist with about an hour and a half of stage time, the selected songs leaned deeply into Sound & Color, the album that turned the world upside-down in 2015, plus fresh, unreleased gems like “American Dream” and “Another Life.” That’s not just nostalgia—that’s dynamism.

Grimy Goods has been covering Alabama Shakes since they first dipped their toes into the scene. From small-club performances to amphitheaters and music festivals like Coachella—Brittany Howard and co. deliver an endless array of soaring vocals, raw soul, storytelling interludes, and a stage presence so magnetic it’s spiritual. You feel their performance with every inch of your body. And to share that feeling with other humans, especially in a magical place like the Hollywood Bowl, it truly makes for a sublime communion.

Shannon and The Clams: The Opening Act With Heart, Grit & Vintage Swagger

Now, picture this: You’ve already got your pulse racing from anticipation, and then Shannon and the Clams hit the stage. These Oakland-based garage‑punk revivalists mix doo‑wop, beach‑surf nostalgia, jangling psych‑garage, and raw punk energy—with a voice that throbs with emotion. Lead singer and guitarist Shannon Shaw has this infectious vibe to her. It’s no surprise fans love her so much and always welcome her to the stage with so much love and applause.

The band’s latest album, The Moon Is In the Wrong Place (2024), captures their evolution: grief-charged, honest, inventive, and layered—emotionally and sonically. There’s a real story behind that album, rooted in loss and survival. Still, the music exudes joy, defiance, and healing, and considering the heartbreaking times we’re living in, we could all use a euphoric dose of Shannon and The Clams.

A First For Alabama Shakes

While Brittany Howard has headlined the Hollywood Bowl as part of her solo tour, this will be the first time that the Alabama Shakes headline the historic venue. There is something to be said about such a beloved band, making their Hollywood Bowl debut after an almost decade-long hiatus. For Angelenos attending this concert, specifically those who are loyal patrons of the Bowl and longtime fans of the Shakes, this reunion show is all the more special considering it will be a historic moment for the band. The Hollywood Bowl is the kind of concert venue that many bands and artists dream of headlining. If you care about music that hits you in the chest, this reunion show is your moment.

So grab tickets, bring friends (or come solo and find your people in the crowd). Trust me—this is where music alive, raw, and utterly unforgettable happens.

Insider Tips for A Rockin’ Good Time at the Hollywood Bowl

Since Alabama Shakes perform at the Hollywood Bowl on Wednesday, August 18, you will have to battle some traffic on a Wednesday night. We can’t stress enough how important it is to arrive early. Gates open at 6 p.m. We highly recommend that you arrive within 30 minutes of gates opening to make sure you have ample time to get settled in your seats and ready to rock out to Shannon and The Clams, who hit the stage at 8 p.m.

No matter where you park, there is a fair amount of walking to be done at the Bowl. After all, the venue is nestled in the Hollywood Hills. Again, this is why it’s so important to arrive early. Nobody likes a sweaty hustle in August at the Bowl.

Have your travel plans, including parking, all mapped out before show time. There are a variety of parking options at the Hollywood Bowl; however, the parking is stacked, which isn’t the best option for some. Parking can get pricey with passes starting at $45 (motorcycles are $10) and valet at $90. You can purchase your parking pass and get more details at the Hollywood Bowl’s parking page.

We highly recommend alternative transportation options, such as the park and ride, the Hollywood Bowl shuttle, and taking public transportation, especially if this is your first time at the Bowl. Park and ride starts at $8 round-trip, with the Bowl shuttle starting at $6 round-trip. You can get all the details and purchase your tickets.

By getting to the Bowl early, you can stock up on concessions before the bands take the stage. However, there are other options when it comes to food and drinks. The Hollywood Bowl allows outside beverages, snacks, and meals for all their LA Phil-presented events, provided they are within their rules. Get all the details.

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There’s still half a year left, which means there’s a lot more shows lined up at the Hollywood Bowl. See some of composer John Williams’ most legendary film scores during his three-night stay on Aug. 22, 23, and 24. For one of the year’s biggest crossovers, Angélique Kidjo and Yo-Yo Ma will be playing at the Bowl on Aug. 28. If you’re in an ‘80s mood, then be sure to catch Cyndi Lauper on Aug. 29 and 30.