Music events: Robert Johnson blues tribute

Blues tribute

The late Robert Johnson, one of the most revered and important blues artists of all time, was born 100 years ago, and a group of musicians will pay tribute to him during a special concert at Symphony Center in Chicago. “Blues at the Crossroads: The Robert Johnson Centennial Concert” will include performances by Big Head Todd and the Monsters, along with bluesmen Dave “Honeyboy” Edwards, Lightnin' Malcolm and Cedric Burnside.

8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets cost $15-$70. Go to cso.org.

The blues, part II

Robert Cray started playing guitar when he was in his early teens, and after getting a major-label record deal in the early 1980s, quickly became known as one of the best modern masters of the blues guitar. He plays at the College of DuPage this weekend.

8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, at the McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Tickets cost $44 to $79. Go to cod.edu.

Rootsy duo

Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt, two musicians who added unique, witty touches to American roots music, will play side-by-side at a special acoustic concert this weekend. This is a duo not to be missed.

8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, at the Rialto Square Theater, 15 E. Van Buren St., Joliet. Tickets cost $49.50 to $65. Go to rialtosquare.com.