Best Upcoming Summer Concerts In Los Angeles

No Southern California summer would be complete without our favorite touring artists passing through town. This summer is no exception; our local arenas are featuring electrifying performances from classic soul musicians, to urban and pop artists. Los Angeles is home to some of the greatest venues, whether you prefer to rock out with thousands, or enjoy a cozy show where the artist is only inches away from your seat. Great seats are known to sell out quickly, so grab yours while they last.

Last Summer on Earth Tour
Gibson Amphitheater at Universal City Walk
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
www.citywalkhollywood.com

Price: Tickets start at $30.75
Date: July 27, 2012 at 7:45 p.m.
Click here for tickets

The Last Summer on Earth tour is the ultimate stop for alternative rock lovers. Hitting the stage on this exciting tour is Blues Traveler, Big Head Todd & The Monsters and Cracker. The top-billers for the show are none other than the Canadian-bred Bare Naked Ladies. Rock out to hits like "One Week", "Run Around" and "Teen Angst" along with your favorite band members. It's like five concerts in one, all under one roof, for one great price.

Kelly Clarkson and The Fray
Hollywood Bowl
2301 N. Highland Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90068
www.hollywoodbowl.com

Price: Tickets from $114.75
Date: July 30, 2012 at 7 p.m.
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The original American Idol winner continues to live up to her title, bringing her spirited performance to the legendary Hollywood Bowl. In her career spanning just under a decade, Clarkson has managed to cut an impressive five albums, and has garnered millions of fans. Joining her on tour is The Fray, whose pop-rock vibe perfectly complements Kelly Clarksons sound. With four albums worth of material themselves, The Fray is a sure bet for Los Angeles pop fans. Outdoor concerts at The Bowl are a must for residents and visitors alike, and with artists like these, you are guaranteed great entertainment and ambiance.

Nicki Minaj
Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE
777 Chick Hearn Court
Los Angeles, CA 90015
www.nokiatheatrelalive.com

Price: Tickets starting at $75
Date: August 5, 2012 at 8 p.m.
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Twenty-first century hip-hop has been dominated by male artists like Jay-Z, Kanye West and Lil Wayne. Nicki Minaj hit the urban music scene with a vengeance in 2010, and two years later, she hasn't lost any momentum. The bubblegum tinted nymph dazzles crowds with her rapid fire lyrics that remind all of her male comrades that ladies too, can be formidable rap battle opponents. Be prepared for a high-octane performance, sultry dancers and a rainbow's worth of spectacular costumes.

Related: Best Music Clubs In LA

Red Hot Chili Peppers
STAPLES Center
1111 S. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
www.staplescenter.com

Price: Tickets starting at $39.50
Playing: August 11, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.

Nearly 30 years since the band formed in Los Angeles, the Red Hot Chili Peppers are still bringing the "heat" to their founding city. Founding members Anthony Kiedis and Michael Balzary, along with Chad Smith and Josh Klinghoffer, enthrall audiences with their catalog spanning almost three decades. The Red Hot Chili Peppers are members of the elite group of bands who are able to bridge the generation gap – making music that is enjoyed by both young and old. Enjoy hits from the George Clinton produced sophomore album Freakey Styley, to their most recent – 2010's I'm With You. Get tickets now and help the band celebrate their recent induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Related: Best Rock Bars In Los Angeles

Heather Gill was born and raised under the ubiquitous sunshine of LA. An admitted tabloid enthusiast and shopaholic, she is always on the prowl for the latest Los Angeles has to offer. Heather is an avid writer and blogger and her work can be found on Examiner.com.