The final month of 2024 saw Columbia venues announce several concerts for local music fans to look forward to in the new year, including a pair of big names that are set to play the state’s largest arena.
“Queen of Hip-Hop and Soul” Mary J. Blige returns to Columbia at Colonial Life Arena on Feb. 5. She is joined for this date on the “For My Fans” tour by special guests NE-YO and Mario. Known for hits such as “Family Affair” and “Everything,” Blige has been a heavy-hitter since the ’90s, releasing her 15th studio album, “Gratitude,” in November. Tickets for the Columbia concert are on sale now .
Also announced for Colonial Life Arena was increasingly popular comedian Nate Bargatze , who brings his “Big Dumb Eyes” world tour to Columbia on Aug. 14. Bargatze has grabbed attention with multiple Netflix specials and two appearances on “Saturday Night Live” (including an oft-memed sketch in which he proudly lists off American quirks, like our rejection of the Metric System, as George Washington addressing his troops). Tickets for the Columbia concert are on sale now .