Concerts bring the energy and excitement of live music right to your screen, and this summer is packed with incredible performances you can enjoy from the comfort of home. Streaming platforms have made it easier than ever to watch live shows featuring top artists, legendary bands, and up-and-coming acts. Whether you’re into pop, rock, country, or indie, there’s something for everyone this season. You just need to know where to look and how to make the most of this virtual concert experience. Let's look at some of the hottest summer shows worth streaming, the platforms airing them, and tips for creating your own concert vibe at home.
1. Big Name Artists Bringing the Heat
Summer is prime time for iconic artists to light up the stage, and many have brought their tours online. Big-name performers are going all-out to create immersive digital experiences for fans worldwide.
Must-Watch Performances
- Taylor Swift: Taylor Swift’s sold-out Eras Tour has taken the world by storm. Though tickets to her live shows are hard to come by, you can still catch streaming specials on platforms like Disney+ and Amazon Prime later this summer. Expect dazzling visuals, throwbacks from her earlier albums, and tracks from her latest hits.
- Beyoncé: Beyoncé is known for her larger-than-life shows, and her Renaissance World Tour promises no less. She’s rumored to drop exclusive streaming clips of her live performances, giving fans a taste of her unmatched vocals and choreography. Look out for these streams on YouTube or subscription platforms like Apple Music.
- Coldplay: Coldplay’s vibrant Music of the Spheres concert combines powerful music with immersive visuals like laser lights and crowd-powered LED wristbands. Catch their live streams on platforms like Amazon Music and Spotify’s events page.
Follow your favorite artist’s social media channels for updates on streaming schedules. Some shows may be free, with additional VIP access options for exclusive content.
2. Discovering Emerging Artists
Streaming isn’t just for chart-topping headliners. It’s also a fantastic way to discover breakout performers and indie talent. You can find exciting new artists through festival streams and dedicated music discovery platforms.
Notable Emerging Acts
- Phoebe Bridgers Digital Showcase: Indie rock darling Phoebe Bridgers will air a special online session this summer, featuring acoustic versions of her fan favorites like "Kyoto" and "I Know The End." Catch these on platforms such as the Live Now app or via her YouTube channel.
- MUNA Live at Tiny Desk: NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert series highlights up-and-coming acts with raw, intimate performances. MUNA’s blend of pop and synth is perfect for the platform and a must-watch for alt-pop fans.
- Jazmine Sullivan Summer Sessions: Jazmine Sullivan’s R&B storytelling shines even brighter in stripped-back, digital concert streams. Scheduled performances will be available through Tidal and YouTube Live.
Explore festival websites like Coachella and Lollapalooza for recorded streams of smaller names featured earlier in the lineup. These hidden gems often go on to huge things.
3. Top Music Festivals You Can Stream This Summer
Missing out on physically attending music festivals is no big deal when many now offer live streams. These broadcasts often include multiple stages, exclusive backstage interviews, and even on-demand replays.
Festival Stream Highlights
- Coachella (Available on YouTube): Every year, YouTube streams Coachella live for fans around the world. The event has become a digital favorite as viewers enjoy performances ranging from headline acts like Bad Bunny and Billie Eilish to emerging talent across all genres.
- Glastonbury Festival (BBC iPlayer): Glastonbury's diverse lineup is perfect for music lovers who enjoy everything from rock to EDM. BBC iPlayer tends to offer excellent UK-exclusive streams of this iconic festival.
- Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival (Hulu Exclusive): Bonnaroo brings the eclectic vibes of Tennessee directly to your screen. Hulu airs full performances and bonus content during the festival weekend, offering something for both festival-goers and couch concert enthusiasts.
Set alarms for key sets you don’t want to miss since major festivals often include multiple live-streamed stages.
4. Best Platforms for Streaming Concerts
The right platform makes all the difference when streaming live shows. Trying out different services can help you find the one that works best for your subscription level and music interests.
- YouTube: A go-to for many artists and festivals, YouTube often offers free live streams for concerts. Some creators charge for exclusive content, but many streams remain free with ads.
- Apple Music and Tidal: These platforms emphasize high-quality audio alongside streams, perfect for audiophiles. Exclusive artist partnerships often bring unique experiences.
- Hulu and Amazon Prime: Both platforms are stepping up their live-streamed event game, adding well-known music festivals and special performances to their catalog. Your existing subscription may already provide access.
- Twitch: Known for gaming, Twitch is becoming a hub for music streams too. Independent artists and DJs frequently broadcast live performances here.
Check for trial subscriptions if you’re exploring multiple services. Many platforms offer free months or discounted rates for new users.
5. Tips for Enjoying Summer Concerts at Home
Streaming concerts offer flexibility, but a few tips can elevate your experience for the full live show vibe.
- Set Up Your Space: Dim the lights, connect your device to a larger screen or projector, and invest in decent speakers or headphones.
- Plan Food and Drinks: Snacks and beverages make your home concert experience feel even more immersive. Grab some popcorn, or mix up a festival-style drink.
- Invite Friends: Send out invites to friends and stream together, either in person or virtually on platforms like Discord.
Skip buffering issues by testing your Wi-Fi and streaming setup ahead of time. Hardwiring your device with an Ethernet cable ensures a smoother experience.
