May 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable month for live music lovers across Pennsylvania. From rock legends and pop superstars to country icons and indie favorites, the Keystone State is hosting a stellar lineup of concerts that cater to every musical taste. Whether you’re in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or anywhere in between, here’s your ultimate guide to the must-see concerts this May.
Rock & Metal Titans
Metallica – M72 World Tour
-
Dates: May 23 & May 25, 2025
-
Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
-
Special Guests: Limp Bizkit, Ice Nine Kills
Get ready, Philly — Metallica is coming in heavy with their M72 World Tour, and they’re doing it in a way that few bands dare: two nights, two completely different setlists, and no repeats. That’s right — if you go to both shows, you’ll hear two entirely different concerts.
Expect to hear deep cuts, fan favorites, and of course, monumental classics like “Enter Sandman,” “Master of Puppets,” and “Nothing Else Matters.“
This “No Repeat Weekend” setup is a true gift to die-hard fans who crave variety and the unexpected. Plus, Metallica’s stage design for the M72 tour features a bold, 360-degree view — meaning more energy, more pyrotechnics, and an even bigger connection between the band and the crowd.
And that’s not all.
-
Limp Bizkit — yes, Fred Durst and crew — will be bringing their nu-metal, rebellious energy with tracks like “Rollin'” and “Break Stuff.” Expect a high-energy set that will have the whole stadium bouncing.
-
Ice Nine Kills, known for their horror-themed heavy metal, are the perfect wild card. Their theatrical, high-intensity live show brings an extra layer of spectacle to the night.
In short: This is not just a concert — it’s a two-night rock spectacle that promises to go down in Philly music history.
AC/DC – Power Up Tour
-
Date: May 8, 2025
-
Venue: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh
Get ready to be thunderstruck! AC/DC, one of the most legendary rock bands in the world, is back on the road for their Power Up Tour, named after their 2020 album which marked a triumphant return to form.
Expect a massive, high-voltage performance packed with fist-pumping classics like “Back in Black,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” “Highway to Hell,” and newer anthems like “Shot in the Dark.”
With Brian Johnson back on vocals, Angus Young duck-walking across the stage in his schoolboy uniform, and a full-scale arena setup — complete with cannons, bell towers, and a ton of pyrotechnics — this promises to be pure, unfiltered rock and roll at its best.
Pittsburgh’s Acrisure Stadium will be roaring as thousands of fans scream along to every lyric. If you’ve never seen AC/DC live, this is the tour to make it happen.
Pop & Indie Highlights
Sabrina Carpenter – Short N’ Sweet Tour
-
Date: May 15, 2025
-
Venue: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia
Pennsylvania’s very own pop darling, Sabrina Carpenter, is making an emotional and triumphant return to her home state with her Short N’ Sweet Tour. Riding high off her newest album (rumored to include more mature, self-written tracks blending pop, indie, and R&B sounds), Sabrina’s star has only continued to rise globally.
You can expect a visually stunning show — complete with dreamy stage designs, dazzling costume changes, and a live band that brings her evolving sound to life. Fans are already buzzing about performances of hits like “Feather,” “Nonsense,” and “Espresso,” as well as deeper album cuts that showcase her powerful vocals.
Plus, there’s an unmistakable hometown pride energy at these shows. When Sabrina steps onto that Philly stage, it’ll feel personal — an emotional, celebratory night filled with singalongs, shout-outs to the crowd, and a few surprises for sure.
If you’re a pop fan, this concert is a no-brainer.
Teddy Swims – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Tour
-
Date: May 18, 2025
-
Venue: TD Pavilion at the Mann, Philadelphia
Teddy Swims is one of those rare artists whose live performances feel like a hug to the soul. Armed with one of the most soulful, emotive voices in the industry today, Teddy’s I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Tour brings intimate, heart-wrenching songs to an open-air venue that’s perfect for a spring night under the stars.
His shows are deeply personal. Expect moments where it feels like the entire audience collectively holds their breath during raw, emotional ballads like “Lose Control” and “You’re Still the One.” But don’t think it’s all heavy — Teddy mixes it up with upbeat, dancey tracks and fun covers that make the night feel like a musical rollercoaster.
The TD Pavilion at the Mann, located within Fairmount Park, provides a stunning, natural backdrop for his soulful sounds, adding an extra layer of magic to an already unforgettable night.
If you appreciate raw talent, vulnerability, and pure soul, this is one concert you’ll remember forever.
Alternative & Indie Rock
Pearl Jam – Dark Matter Tour
-
Dates: May 16 & 18, 2025
-
Venue: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh
When Pearl Jam announces a tour, you know it’s going to be special — and their Dark Matter Tour is no exception.
The grunge legends are blending decades of rock history with fresh material from their 2024 album, Dark Matter. Expect an epic setlist that weaves new, hard-hitting tracks with timeless anthems like “Alive,” “Jeremy,” and “Even Flow.” Eddie Vedder’s voice — as raw and powerful as ever — becomes the emotional anchor for every performance.
Pearl Jam concerts are famously unpredictable. Some nights, they’ll dive into deep cuts; other nights, you’ll get full-on greatest hits marathons. Add to that the band’s tight musicianship, their socially conscious lyrics, and their almost spiritual connection with the crowd, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable night.
Bonus:
PPG Paints Arena is known for its excellent acoustics and intimate feel for a larger venue, making it a perfect space to experience the raw force of Pearl Jam live.
If you’ve never seen them live before — this is your moment.
Pierce the Veil
-
Date: May 25, 2025
-
Venue: The Pavilion at Star Lake, Burgettstown
Pierce the Veil is back, and they’re bringing a tidal wave of energy with them.
Known for their infectious blend of post-hardcore, punk, and emo, the San Diego-based band has a die-hard fanbase that shows up ready to scream every word. With their latest album adding a new level of maturity and sonic experimentation, this tour promises a fiery set packed with both classics like “King for a Day” and newer anthems.
Expect:
-
Explosive guitar riffs
-
Insane vocal runs by Vic Fuentes
-
Massive circle pits and crowd surfing
-
Heartfelt sing-along moments
The Pavilion at Star Lake is a favorite summer venue for rock fans — and under the stars, with the crowd roaring, Pierce the Veil’s music will hit even harder.
Bring your energy, bring your friends, and get ready to leave your voice in Burgettstown.
Country & Folk Favorites
Kane Brown with Scotty McCreery & Ashley Cooke
-
Date: May 1, 2025
-
Venue: Bryce Jordan Center, University Park
Talk about a power-packed lineup to kick off May!
Kane Brown is one of country music’s brightest crossover stars, known for blending traditional country with pop, R&B, and a little bit of everything in between.
His concerts are a vibrant, feel-good experience, with hits like:
-
“Heaven”
-
“What Ifs”
-
“Like I Love Country Music”
Kane’s easygoing charm and powerful voice turn massive arenas into singalong parties.
Joining him:
-
Scotty McCreery (American Idol winner) — bringing that deep, classic country sound with heartfelt hits like “Five More Minutes” and “Damn Strait.”
-
Ashley Cooke — the fast-rising star known for her raw lyrics and relatable storytelling, making waves with songs like “Your Place.”
The Bryce Jordan Center, located right in the heart of Penn State’s campus, will be buzzing with energy. Expect cowboy boots, denim jackets, and thousands of fans ready to two-step and belt out the biggest country tunes of the year.
This show is a can’t-miss moment for country fans old and new.
Carly Pearce
-
Date: May 2, 2025
-
Venue: The Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem
If you love country music with a deep heart and a little touch of heartbreak, Carly Pearce‘s concert is where you need to be.
The Grammy-winning artist has built her reputation on authenticity, drawing from real-life experiences — love, loss, resilience — and channeling them into beautifully crafted songs like:
-
“Every Little Thing”
-
“Next Girl”
-
“What He Didn’t Do”
Carly’s live shows are emotional journeys.
She’s known for connecting with her audience on a personal level, talking about the stories behind her songs, and making even a large crowd feel like a cozy gathering of old friends.
The Wind Creek Event Center offers a more intimate atmosphere compared to huge arenas, which perfectly suits Carly’s honest, acoustic-heavy style.
Expect a night of laughter, tears, and a whole lot of beautiful music.
Hip-Hop & R&B Vibes
Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra World Tour
-
Date: May 15, 2025
-
Venue: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia
Get ready, Philly — Rauw Alejandro is bringing the heat with his Cosa Nuestra World Tour, and it’s going to be absolutely electric.
Known as one of the most dynamic forces in Latin urban music, Rauw fuses reggaetón, R&B, and electronic sounds with a futuristic flair. His concerts are high-energy spectacles, complete with:
-
Stunning choreography
-
Hypnotic visuals
-
Nonstop crowd interaction
Expect to dance all night to hits like:
-
“Todo de Ti” (the song that took over the world)
-
“Lokera”
-
“Punto 40”
He’s not just a singer — he’s a full performer, often showcasing jaw-dropping dance breaks and visuals that create an immersive, almost cinematic experience.
The Wells Fargo Center, one of Philly’s premier arenas, will be pulsing with Latin rhythms and vibrant energy. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just love a great party, this is one of those nights that will have the entire city talking.
Pro Tip: Brush up on your Spanish lyrics — Rauw’s fans love to sing along word-for-word. 🎶
Central Cee – Can’t Rush Greatness 2025 World Tour
-
Date: May 21, 2025
-
Venue: The Fillmore, Philadelphia
Central Cee, the UK rap sensation who’s been taking the world by storm, is touching down in Philly as part of his Can’t Rush Greatness 2025 World Tour — and trust, this show is going to be next-level.
Known for his razor-sharp lyrics, effortless flow, and boundary-pushing style, Central Cee has redefined UK drill and made it global. With smash hits like:
-
“Sprinter”
-
“Doja”
-
“Obsessed with You”
he’s proven he can dominate charts while staying true to his gritty, real roots.
The Fillmore offers a more intimate concert experience compared to big arenas — meaning you’ll feel every bass drop, every lyric, and every beat up close and personal.
Central Cee’s shows are high-energy, authentic, and full of that London swagger. Expect massive mosh pits, lyrical freestyles, and a crowd ready to turn all the way up.
If you want to witness the future of hip-hop unfold live, this is your chance.
Soulful & Jazz Performances
Jacob Banks
-
Date: May 3, 2025
-
Venue: Theatre of The Living Arts, Philadelphia
Jacob Banks isn’t just a singer — he’s an experience.
With a voice that’s deep, smoky, and soul-stirring, Jacob blends elements of soul, blues, R&B, and gospel into performances that feel almost spiritual.
Expect to be swept away by tracks like:
-
“Chainsmoking”
-
“Unknown (To You)”
-
“Slow Up”
His live shows are emotional journeys, moving from heartbreak to hope with a raw honesty that’s rare in today’s music scene.
The Theatre of The Living Arts (TLA) offers an intimate setting — perfect for Jacob’s deep, resonant sound. Standing in the crowd, you’ll feel every lyric hit your chest as he pours emotion into every note.
Don’t be surprised if you leave the show feeling a little bit changed.
It’s that powerful.
Kristin Chenoweth
-
Date: May 3, 2025
-
Venue: Kimmel Center – Marian Anderson Hall, Philadelphia
For a totally different but equally unforgettable evening, catch Kristin Chenoweth — the iconic Broadway and TV star — at the stunning Marian Anderson Hall.
Chenoweth, with her crystal-clear soprano and irresistible charm, will deliver a concert that blends:
-
Beloved Broadway standards
-
Contemporary pop songs
-
Personal stories and playful banter
Whether she’s belting out “Popular” from Wicked or moving audiences with a heartfelt ballad, her shows are a masterclass in vocal performance and emotional connection.
The Kimmel Center’s Marian Anderson Hall, known for its impeccable acoustics and beautiful architecture, provides the perfect, elegant backdrop for a night of musical magic.
If you appreciate world-class vocals and a little bit of sparkle, Kristin’s show will be pure bliss.
Tips for Concert-Goers
-
Plan Ahead: Popular concerts can sell out quickly. Purchase tickets early to secure your spot.
-
Check Venue Policies: Familiarize yourself with the venue’s rules regarding bags, cameras, and other items.
-
Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time for parking, security checks, and finding your seat.
-
Stay Informed: Follow artists and venues on social media for updates on set times and special announcements.Axios
Final Thoughts
May 2025 offers an incredible array of concerts across Pennsylvania, catering to fans of all genres. Whether you’re into rock, pop, country, or hip-hop, there’s a show waiting for you. Don’t miss the chance to experience live music at its finest this spring!
