Concerts at UC San Diego 2009-2012
UC San Diego's campus programming brought some incredible artists to perform for students and the community. From comedy-music acts to indie rock favorites to rising stars, these campus shows were always a great time.
Comedy Meets Music
Flight of the Conchords (2009/2010)
New Zealand's "fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo" brought their HBO show brilliance to UCSD. Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement's deadpan humor combined with genuinely catchy songs made for a hilarious and musical evening. "Business Time," "Hiphopopotamus vs. Rhymenoceros," "The Most Beautiful Girl (In the Room)" - comedy and music perfectly blended. Read more about this show.
Singer-Songwriters
Colin Meloy (from The Decemberists) (2009)
The Decemberists' frontman performing solo acoustic showed off his literary lyricism and storytelling ability. Without the full band's baroque arrangements, his songs felt more intimate and his narrative skills shone through.
Cary Brothers (2011)
The indie singer-songwriter brought his emotional, piano-driven pop. His voice is earnest and his songs are heartfelt - perfect for the intimate campus setting.
Indie Rock Energy
Delta Spirit (2012)
The California indie-rock band brought their anthemic, soulful rock to campus. "Trashcan" and "Bushwick Blues" showcased their ability to blend folk, rock, and soul into something uniquely their own. Read more.
Grouplove (2012)
Right as "Tongue Tied" was everywhere, Grouplove hit Porter's Pub. Their infectious indie-pop energy and group vocals made for a party atmosphere. Catching them in a small campus venue before they got huge made it feel special. Read more.
The Campus Concert Experience
Campus shows have a different vibe than regular venues. The crowds are young and enthusiastic, tickets are usually cheap or free for students, and there's an accessibility that makes music feel less like a luxury and more like a part of college life.
UCSD's programming consistently brought quality acts - not just whoever was cheap, but artists who were either established or clearly on the rise. Flight of the Conchords at the height of their HBO fame, Grouplove right as they were blowing up - good booking makes a difference.
The Verdict
UC San Diego's concert programming gave students and the community access to incredible artists in intimate settings. From Flight of the Conchords' comedy brilliance to Delta Spirit's soulful rock to Grouplove's infectious energy - these campus shows provided memorable nights and accessible live music.
College campuses that invest in quality arts programming create cultural value that extends far beyond the classroom.