Violent Femmes formed in 1981 as an acoustic punk band playing on the streets of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Their main influences at that time were Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps and The Velvet Underground. Their goal was to rock harder than any other acoustic act on the planet.

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Violent Femmes

The Flynn

The Lyric Baltimore

Violent Femmes formed in 1981 as an acoustic punk band playing on the streets of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Their main influences at that time were Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps and The Velvet Underground. Their goal was to rock harder than any other acoustic act on the planet.

After being rejected for an audition by a local nightclub, the Femmes set up outside a Pretenders gig and began to play. Pretenders’ lead singer Chrissie Hynde asked them to open that night’s show, which gave the young band a publicity boost and caught the attention of Richard Hell, who invited the Femmes to open for him in NYC. A rave review in the New York Times eventually led to a record deal, which in turn spawned worldwide touring.

The Woodruff Arts Center

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Violent Femmes Festival at Sandpoint on Friday, July 26, 2024. This special event celebrates 40 years of the band's seminal album "Hallowed Ground" with a unique performance that promises to be a highlight of the 2024 music calendar.

The Violent Femmes, renowned for their influential blend of folk punk and alternative rock, will treat fans to a rare performance of their groundbreaking debut self-titled album and their sophomore release, "Hallowed Ground," played in their entirety. The evening will kick off with "Hallowed Ground," marking its 40th anniversary, followed by a brief intermission before the band returns to the stage to perform "Violent Femmes" from start to finish, along with a selection of fan and band favorites to round off the show.

This event not only offers a chance to experience these iconic albums live but also serves as a sonic journey through the band's history, from the teenage angst and alienation of the 1980s to the eclectic and experimental sounds that have defined their career. With hits like "Kiss Off," "Add It Up," and "Gone Daddy Gone," the Violent Femmes have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, making this a must-see event for enthusiasts of all ages.

Concert Details:
- Date: Friday, July 26, 2024
- Venue: The Festival at Sandpoint
- Box Office Opens: 5:00 PM
- General Admission & Season Pass Gates Open: 6:00 PM
- Music Begins: 8:00 PM

General Admission tickets are priced at $59.95, before taxes and fees. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Violent Femmes as they perform their beloved albums live, celebrating four decades of groundbreaking music. Buy your tickets now and prepare for an evening filled with nostalgia, innovation, and the timeless sound of one of alternative rock's most enduring bands.

An Evening with Violent Femmes

Festival at Sandpoint

Violent Femmes with the Chicago Philharmonic

Ravinia Festival

The Violent Femmes formed in 1981 as an acoustic punk-rock band playing on the streets of Milwaukee, influenced by The Velvet Underground. Original members Gordon Gano, Brian Ritchie and others join your Grand Rapids Symphony for a full orchestra experience. Get set for a long list of cult classics such as “Add it Up,” “Blister in the Sun,” “Kiss Off,” “Gone Daddy Gone,” “American Music” and “Gimme the Car.”

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