GETTING THE BAND BACK TOGETHER

“There are two words in our business that sell tickets,” says a prominent concert promoter. “‘Reunion’ and ‘final.’” Ever since the Who got back together in 1989 after a seven-year breakup and made around $30 million, the reunion tour has been a lucrative live staple. This spring is no exception, with Nineties college-rock hitmakers Hootie and the Blowfish, riot-grrrls Bikini Kill and glam legends Mott the Hoople all hitting the road.

Hootie and the Blowfish

DATES May 30th-September 13th

Darius Rucker and crew’s tour is shaping up to be one of the hottest tickets of the year: “They’re playing to 20,000 everywhere,” says an industry source. “Everyone wants to remember when they had hair on their head.” DAVID BROWNE

Bikini Kill

DATES April 25th-June 5th After 20 years, feminist punks Bikini Kill return for 11 instantly sold-out gigs. They also finally hit streaming services. Says singer Kathleen Hanna, “In this political climate, it’s important for young girls to have access to our music.” SUZY EXPOSITO

Mott the Hoople

DATES April 1st-10th “I’m doing this because I want fun,” Ian

Hunter says of his first U.S. tour with British-glam avengers Mott the Hoople since 1974. This “is it,” he adds. “I don’t want to take it down the tubes. I want to stay on a certain level.” DAVID FRICKE