Upcoming concerts in Washington 2024

About Washington

MUSIC

Washington, D.C. has a rich history of producing diverse music genres as well as a thriving live music scene. From jazz to punk rock and hip-hop, the city has contributed significantly to America's music landscape. Duke Ellington, the legendary jazz pianist and composer, hailed from Washington, D.C. and his legacy can be seen throughout the city, including in the form of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. The punk rock music scene also thrived in the city during the 1980s with bands like Fugazi, Bad Brains, and Minor Threat calling D.C. their home. Hip-hop also has a strong presence in the city with artists like Wale, GoldLink, and Shy Glizzy gaining popularity.

CULTURE

Washington, D.C. is home to an array of cultural institutions that celebrate the arts, history, and science. The Smithsonian Institution is a collection of 19 museums and galleries including the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden which showcases contemporary art. The National Theatre hosts various musicals, plays, and other performances throughout the year. Other cultural venues include The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the historic Howard Theatre which has hosted famous musicians such as Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes.

HISTORY

Washington, D.C. was founded in 1790 to serve as the nation's capital. It has been the location of many pivotal moments throughout U.S. history including the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. The National Mall is a sprawling park that is home to many of the country's most significant monuments and memorials including the Washington Monument and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The White House, the official residence of the President of the United States, is also located in Washington, D.C., and is a major attraction for visitors from all over the world.