Alabama Shakes at Red Rocks: A Summer Music Getaway Not to Miss
The sun-drenched sandstone formations of Red Rocks Amphitheatre will come alive with the soulful sounds of Alabama Shakes on Sunday, July 20, 2025. As the band takes the stage at 8:00 PM, fans from across the country will gather in this natural wonder for a night of powerful vocals, bluesy guitar riffs, and unforgettable musical moments. For those who regularly travel for music events, this summer concert promises to be one of 2025’s most memorable live music experiences.
The Return of Alabama Shakes
Alabama Shakes has built a devoted following with their unique blend of blues, soul, and rock. Led by the incomparable Brittany Howard, the band’s raw emotion and authentic sound create an electric atmosphere at every performance. Their appearance at Red Rocks marks a significant moment for fans who appreciate the combination of stellar musicianship and a world-class venue.
The band’s setlist will likely include favorites from their acclaimed albums “Boys & Girls” and “Sound & Color,” alongside newer material. Their signature songs like “Hold On,” “Don’t Wanna Fight,” and “Future People” take on new dimensions when performed live, especially in a venue with the natural acoustics of Red Rocks.
A Little bit History
Formed in Athens, Alabama in 2009, Alabama Shakes rose to prominence with a sound that defies easy categorization. Their music weaves together elements of Southern rock, blues, soul, and roots music, creating a distinctive sonic landscape that feels both nostalgic and completely fresh. The band earned widespread critical acclaim for their ability to channel the authenticity of classic soul and blues while adding contemporary touches. Their Grammy-winning album “Sound & Color” showcased their evolution from traditional blues-rock into more experimental territory, incorporating psychedelic elements and complex arrangements that demonstrated their artistic growth.
What makes Alabama Shakes truly special is the extraordinary talent of frontwoman Brittany Howard, whose powerful, emotive vocals can shift from tender vulnerability to roof-raising intensity within a single song. Her commanding stage presence and the band’s tight instrumentation create performances that feel both meticulously crafted and spontaneously raw. The group’s chemistry—with Heath Fogg on guitar, Zac Cockrell on bass, and Steve Johnson on drums—produces a sound much larger than the sum of its parts. Their live shows have become legendary for their energy and emotional impact, with Howard’s voice soaring over arrangements that leave space for improvisation while maintaining the emotional core of each song.
Alabama Shakes’s official website : https://www.alabamashakes.com/
Red Rocks: The Perfect Music Venue
Few concert locations in America can match the majesty of Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Located just 15 miles west of Denver, this natural amphitheater sits 6,450 feet above sea level and offers:
- Perfect acoustics created by the surrounding massive red sandstone formations
- Seating for 9,525 people, each with unobstructed views of the stage
- A starlit sky that serves as nature’s own light show during evening performances
- Breathtaking views of Denver’s city lights in the distance
- A sense of musical history, with performers ranging from The Beatles to Jimi Hendrix having graced its stage
The venue’s natural beauty creates an almost spiritual concert experience that enhances live music in ways that conventional arenas simply cannot match. For the Alabama Shakes performance in 2025, this means fans will enjoy not just great music but also one of the most visually stunning concert settings in the world.
Planning Your Music Getaway to Alabama Shakes
For those who regularly embrace traveling for music, a trip to Red Rocks requires some advance planning. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your live music getaway:
Getting There
There are many different options of getting to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Morrison is easily accessible from Denver, making this an ideal destination for music travelers. Your options include:
- Flying into Denver International Airport (DEN), which offers connections from all major US cities
- Renting a car for the approximately 30-minute drive from Denver to Morrison
- Using rideshare services, though availability may be limited after the concert ends
- Booking shuttle services that specifically operate for Red Rocks events
Where to Stay
The 2025 summer concert season will see increased demand for accommodations near Red Rocks. Consider these options:
Downtown Denver offers numerous hotels across all price ranges and provides easy access to the city’s vibrant dining and entertainment scene. Golden and Lakewood are closer to the venue and offer more peaceful surroundings with mountain views. For a more immersive experience, look into cabin rentals in the foothills near Morrison.
Book your accommodations early, as the popularity of Alabama Shakes combined with Red Rocks’ reputation will drive up demand and prices as the July 20 concert date approaches.
Making the Most of Concert Day
When July 20, 2025 arrives, you’ll want to maximize your Red Rocks experience. The venue opens well before the show, allowing you to:
Arrive early to explore the surrounding park, which features hiking trails and spectacular views. The venue typically opens its gates 2-3 hours before showtime, giving you ample opportunity to find your seat, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Visit the Red Rocks Hall of Fame to learn about the venue’s rich musical history. Pack accordingly—the weather at Red Rocks can change quickly, so layers are essential even in July.
Remember that the elevation affects both temperature and how your body processes alcohol, so stay hydrated throughout the event.
Extend Your Music City Experience
While Alabama Shakes at Red Rocks will be the highlight of your trip, the Denver area offers plenty for music enthusiasts to enjoy before and after the main event:
Denver’s music scene thrives year-round, with venues like the Bluebird Theater and Fillmore Auditorium offering performances in the days surrounding the Red Rocks concert. The city hosts numerous summer festivals in 2025, making it possible to create a multi-day live music getaway. Local record stores like Twist & Shout and Wax Trax provide opportunities to expand your vinyl collection with Colorado exclusives.
There are nice things to do near Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Many visitors choose to make this concert part of a larger Colorado adventure, combining their love of live music with outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains or exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.
What to Expect from the Performance
Alabama Shakes concerts are known for their energy and emotional intensity. At Red Rocks in 2025, fans can anticipate:
- A mix of the band’s beloved classics and fresh material
- Extended jam sessions that take advantage of Red Rocks’ superior acoustics
- Possible special guests, as Denver’s music community often welcomes collaborations
- A performance that begins as the sun sets and continues under the stars
- The band’s characteristic raw energy amplified by the natural surroundings
Howard’s powerful vocals echoing off the rock formations will create moments of musical transcendence that simply can’t be replicated in traditional venues. This is precisely why traveling for music events delivers experiences that recorded music cannot provide.
Securing Your Tickets
Tickets for Alabama Shakes at Red Rocks go on sale six months before the concert date, with prices ranging from $65 to $150 depending on seating section. The official Red Rocks Amphitheatre website (redrocksonline.com) and AXS.com serve as the primary authorized sellers, though fan club members may access a pre-sale with limited availability. Be cautious about third-party resellers—while sites like StubHub and SeatGeek offer legitimate options, prices often carry significant markups as the event approaches. Consider setting price alerts on these platforms to grab tickets at fair rates. For the 2025 concert season, Red Rocks has implemented a new digital ticketing system that allows secure transfers between friends and family but reduces scalping opportunities. VIP packages including sound check access and merchandise bundles will be available directly through the band’s website approximately four months before the show.
Practical Tips for Your Live Music Getaway
To ensure your Alabama Shakes concert experience goes smoothly, keep these live music getaway travel tips in mind:
- Purchase tickets early, as this show will likely sell out well before July 2025
- Download the Red Rocks app for venue information and updates
- Bring a clear bag if you need to carry items, as the venue has restrictions
- Wear comfortable shoes—reaching your seat involves climbing steps
- Consider buying a seat cushion at the venue for added comfort
- Check weather forecasts closely before heading to the show
- Arrive with a fully charged phone to capture memories (but don’t watch the entire show through your screen!)
Beyond the Music: The Complete Experience
What makes this particular 2025 concert worthy of planning a special trip is the combination of elements that can’t be replicated elsewhere:
The physical sensation of sound waves bouncing off massive rock formations while stars appear overhead creates concert memories that last a lifetime. The community of music lovers who gather at Red Rocks brings an energy and appreciation that enhances the experience for everyone present. The natural beauty of the setting provides a welcome contrast to our increasingly digital lives.
When planning your summer music calendar for 2025, this Alabama Shakes performance deserves priority consideration for anyone who values the unique alchemy that happens when the right band performs in the right place.
In Conclusion
The Alabama Shakes concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on July 20, 2025, represents everything that makes traveling for music worthwhile. The combination of a powerhouse band, an acoustically perfect natural venue, and the community of passionate fans creates an experience that transcends the ordinary concert. For those who build vacations around meaningful musical moments, this event offers the perfect centerpiece for a Colorado summer getaway. As you plan your live music adventures for 2025, circle this date and prepare for a night where music, nature, and community come together in perfect harmony.
