Two blockbuster concert runs bookend a busy fall slate. Beginning Sept. 15, Lady Gaga hosts her Mayhem Ball at the United Center for three evenings on her first trip to the city since summer 2022 . Toward the end of autumn, Paul McCartney swings through the United Center for a pair of dates on his Got Back Tour. The Beatles great last entertained Chicago in July 2017 . Get back, indeed, Sir Paul. It’s been a long time.

Plenty of action takes place between the pop juggernauts. A majority of the finer options unfold at small and midsize venues — and cost less than three figures, less than the going price of a hoodie at stadium events. While hundreds of shows will compete for your money and attention the next few months, here are 10 can’t-miss events plus another 10 gigs that double as k

See Full Page