Graham Nash, Nelly, Apollo’s Fire Lead August’s Can’t-Miss Concerts in Northeast Ohio

CLEVELAND, OHIO — Northeast Ohio is set to deliver one of its most musically diverse Augusts in recent memory. Whether you’re a fan of legendary folk harmonies, early 2000s hip-hop, or Grammy-winning classical ensembles, this month’s concert calendar has something for everyone — and some events are free.

The highlights? Graham Nash, Nelly and Ja Rule, and Apollo’s Fire all headline performances across the region. But they’re not alone. A full lineup of jazz brunches, tribute bands, and 80s icons are also rolling into town.

Folk Icon Meets Hip-Hop Powerhouse — Same Night, Different Vibes

• Graham Nash
  Goodyear Theater, Akron
  Monday, August 5
  One of the founding members of Crosby, Stills & Nash brings his signature voice and storytelling to Akron. At 82, Nash still commands the stage with songs of peace, politics, and personal reflection.
• Nelly with Ja Rule
  Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls
  Monday, August 5
  Expect a packed crowd, old-school party energy, and massive hits like “Hot in Herre” and “Ride Wit Me.” Add Ja Rule to the mix and it becomes a full-blown 2000s throwback night.

Apollo’s Fire Ignites Baroque Passions

• Apollo’s Fire: A Fencing Match
  Aug. 8 – Bath Church
  Aug. 9 – Cleveland Heights
  Aug. 10 – Rocky River
  Cleveland’s very own Grammy-winning baroque orchestra returns with a theatrical performance featuring Bach and Telemann dueling with harpsichords, strings, and flair. These performances often sell out, so early tickets are encouraged.

More Top Picks for August Concertgoers

• Lost 80’s Live – Aug. 6 @ MGM Northfield Park
  Featuring A Flock of Seagulls, Wang Chung, Animotion, and more of your synth-pop favorites.
• Toto, Men at Work, Christopher Cross – Aug. 8 @ Blossom
  An unforgettable night of yacht rock and 80s anthems.
• The Neverland Express ft. Caleb Johnson – Aug. 9 @ Akron Civic Theatre
  A powerful tribute to Meat Loaf, featuring the original touring band and a powerhouse vocalist.
• Jazz, Brunch & Vibes – Aug. 3 @ Music Box Supper Club, Cleveland
  Featuring Eric Seddon’s Burning River Jazz Band, this brunch performance brings New Orleans flair to the waterfront.
• Main Street Medina Music & Arts Festival – Aug. 9
  Family-friendly and free, with local musicians, art vendors, and food trucks.

Don’t Miss Free Concert Series

• ProMusica Summer Series (Various Dates)
  Another standout classical option with free outdoor performances throughout the region.
• Wood County Museum Live Music Nights – Next: Aug. 14
  Bring a chair and enjoy the community vibes at this ongoing summer concert series.

Experience Northeast Ohio Through Live Music

Whether you’re catching Nelly under the stars, swaying to Graham Nash’s harmonies, or being swept away by Apollo’s Fire, August is your ticket to summer’s best live music moments.

Plan ahead, grab your seats, and make room in your calendar — Northeast Ohio is turning the volume all the way up.

What’s your top pick this month? Let us know what concert you’re most excited for on ChicagoMusicGuide.com!