Hey, guys… guess what? Live music is back! And while I’ve enjoyed coming up with new ways to share my playlists with you (or discuss my ’90s-inspired footwear), the point of this column has always been to share what’s going on in the world of music performance.

First and foremost, you need to know that Red Rocks is back open. And why not with all that open air? Mark your summertime calendar to sway under the stars with exciting performances, some actually beginning this month. You can view the full schedule and purchase tickets at bit.ly/2Oimuzs.

But, as we mountain people know, you don’t have to hit the big venues to hear a great show. With warmer weather on the way, and some restrictions lifting, some of your favorite local joints are scheduling out live performances.

The Aspen Room Bar & Grill at El Rancho is hosting live music nearly every weekend. Their music schedule will feature everything from folk to rock. You can view the calendar of events at bit.ly/3dBxfFT, and check out upcoming scheduled artists on the El Rancho Instagram at @elranchobrewing.

You know you can count on Cactus Jack’s Saloon & Grill for some fantastic local performances. Upcoming shows include Zagriculture, The Wrecklunds, Poor Free City, Phour Point O and Bottle Rocket Hurricane. Not only are your favorite musicians lining up the live music schedule, every Saturday, CJ’s is hosting Karaoke by the Creek. Get the details at evergreenlivemusic.com.

The Woodcellar is running weekend shows with some weekday special events tossed into the mix. There are several weekend shows lined up for the beginning of each month including A-Mac, with some live reggae and hip-hop on the first of May. Keep checking in for more events to come at bit.ly/2PRR6bt.

Ebony & Vine in Conifer is open for dinner, and they’re happy to entertain you while you dine. Thursday through Saturday from 5 pm to close (normally about 8 pm), dine-in guests can enjoy live music (a pianist!) along with delicious food and atmosphere. Learn more at ebonyandvine.com and stay tuned for even more music events come summer.

If you’re in the mood for a musical or play, The Venue Theatre Company in Conifer is planning COVID-conscious live performances beginning this month. You can catch Shrek Jr. The Musical until April 18, and there are plans for a Fiddler on the Roof performance in the summer months.

I spoke with a few other venues—Wild Game (bit.ly/3uiFEEB), Lariat Lodge Brewing (bit.ly/3rKZerv) and Snowpack Taproom (bit.ly/31JSWhk)—who will likely be open for summertime performances. They’re thankful for your patience and recommended checking schedules in the next few weeks.

Also, take heart! It looks like the EPRD summertime concert series at the Lake will be on. Follow the juicy details at bit.ly/3sKeZQO. I caught wind of a few other pop-up shows in parks and playgrounds around the area, so keep your eyes peeled for some intimate outdoor events as the temperatures start to rise.

It’s been a long wait, and I know we’re all excited to get back out there. Please support our local musicians and venues by making it out for a live show when you can!