James Taylor
San Diego
The Rady Shell lights up for JT in…
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James Taylor at The Rady Shell – April 28, 2026
James Taylor and His All-Star Band bring their celebrated 2026 tour to one of America’s most stunning concert venues when they perform at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in San Diego on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 7:30 PM. Set against the backdrop of San Diego Bay with the city skyline glittering behind the stage, this waterfront performance promises an evening where world-class music meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The San Diego show comes early in Taylor’s 2026 North American tour, which kicks off just two days earlier in Highland, California. For Southern California fans, the Rady Shell performance offers a rare chance to experience one of music’s most beloved artists in an intimate outdoor setting that has drawn comparisons to Los Angeles’ legendary Hollywood Bowl.
What Is The Rady Shell Experience?
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park represents a new standard for outdoor concert venues. Opened in 2021 as the permanent home of the San Diego Symphony’s summer concert series, the venue features world-class acoustics, spectacular bay views, and a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly complements James Taylor’s warm, intimate performance style. The venue accommodates up to 10,000 guests across premium seating sections and a terraced lawn.
Both the New York Times and Los Angeles Times have praised The Rady Shell as a worthy peer to the Hollywood Bowl. The London-designed performance shell delivers pristine sound quality, while the bayfront setting creates an ambiance unlike any other venue on the West Coast. Sunset concerts here are particularly magical, as the sky transforms from blue to gold to purple behind the performers.
The All-Star Band: Masters of Their Craft
James Taylor’s All-Star Band features world-renowned musicians whose combined credentials span decades of popular music history. Larry Goldings provides sophisticated piano accompaniment, bringing Grammy-nominated jazz sensibilities to Taylor’s folk-rock foundation. Jimmy Johnson anchors the bass with experience backing legends from Ray Charles to Madonna.
The ensemble includes Lou Marini on horns (Blues Brothers Band, Saturday Night Live Band), Luis Conte on percussion (Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana), and a stellar vocal trio: Andrea Zonn, Dorian Holley, and Kate Markowitz. Taylor’s son Henry Taylor joins on vocals, adding a touching family dimension to the performance.
Setlist Expectations for San Diego
James Taylor concerts deliver career-spanning journeys through American music history. San Diego fans can expect the songs that defined a generation: “Fire and Rain,” the deeply personal breakthrough that established Taylor as a major artist; “You’ve Got a Friend,” the Carole King classic he made his own; and “Sweet Baby James,” the lullaby-like title track from his breakthrough album.
Additional favorites include “Carolina in My Mind,” “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” “Mexico,” and “Your Smiling Face.” The show typically closes with the uplifting “Shower the People,” featuring extended instrumental showcases from band members. Material from his Grammy-winning “American Standard” album may also appear.
April in San Diego: Perfect Concert Weather
Late April offers ideal conditions for an outdoor concert in San Diego. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, with gentle ocean breezes keeping the evening comfortable. The sun sets around 7:30 PM in late April, meaning the concert begins as golden hour transitions to twilight—a magical backdrop for James Taylor’s timeless music.
The Rady Shell’s location on San Diego Bay means stunning views throughout the performance. Boats occasionally glide past during concerts, adding to the relaxed, coastal atmosphere that makes this venue so special. The combination of perfect weather, spectacular setting, and world-class music creates an experience unique to San Diego.
About The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
The Rady Shell opened in August 2021 following an $85 million construction project that transformed the former temporary concert site at Embarcadero Marina Park South into a permanent architectural landmark. Named in honor of major donors Ernest and Evelyn Rady ($15 million) and Joan and Irwin Jacobs ($11 million), the venue serves as the summer home of the San Diego Symphony while hosting popular music performances throughout the season.
The venue features terraced seating that provides unobstructed views from virtually every location, from premium table seating near the stage to the expansive Skyline Terrace lawn. The covered stage area spans nearly 4,000 square feet, designed by London’s Soundforms to deliver exceptional acoustic performance. For more information about the venue, visit theshell.org.
Getting Your James Taylor San Diego Tickets
Tickets for James Taylor at The Rady Shell are available through our verified resale marketplace. As a trusted ticket broker with over 20 years in business and top ratings on Trustpilot, we connect fans with authentic tickets from verified sellers. Our platform features all-inclusive pricing—no hidden fees at checkout.
All transactions are processed securely through BigStub with comprehensive buyer protection and verified seller authentication. Whether you’re seeking premium table seating near the stage, mid-venue reserved seats, or lawn terrace spots, our marketplace offers competitive pricing across all sections.
James Taylor: Five Decades of Musical Excellence
James Vernon Taylor was born March 12, 1948, in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. His remarkable journey began in the mid-1960s, leading to a historic signing with The Beatles’ Apple Records in 1968—the first American artist on the legendary label.
His 1970 album “Sweet Baby James” established the singer-songwriter genre that would define the decade. Songs like “Fire and Rain” broke new ground with honest exploration of personal struggles, while Taylor’s distinctive fingerpicking guitar style and warm baritone created an instantly recognizable sound that influenced countless artists.
Career achievements include six Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2000), the National Medal of Arts from President Obama (2012), and the French government’s Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters. Taylor has sold over 100 million albums worldwide. His 2015 release “Before This World” became his first #1 album after 45 years of recording, while his 2020 album “American Standard” earned the Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album.
Planning Your Rady Shell Experience
Maximize your James Taylor San Diego experience with these essential tips:
How to Get to The Rady Shell
The Rady Shell is located at 200 Marina Park Way within Embarcadero Marina Park South, just west of the San Diego Convention Center. The venue is easily accessible via the San Diego Trolley, with the Convention Center and Gaslamp Quarter stops nearby. Paid parking is available at the Convention Center garage, Padres Parkade, and nearby surface lots. The venue is also walkable from downtown hotels and the Gaslamp Quarter.
What to Bring
The Rady Shell allows blankets for lawn seating (chairs are typically provided for Symphony concerts but may not be available for all events—check your specific show). Small personal bags are permitted, though large backpacks and coolers are prohibited. Outside food is generally allowed in non-glass containers. The venue offers excellent food and beverage service on-site.
Where to Dine
The Gaslamp Quarter, just blocks from the venue, offers dozens of dining options from casual to upscale. Many concertgoers enjoy dinner in the Gaslamp before walking to the show. The venue itself features on-site concessions and bars throughout the seating areas.
San Diego: A Concert Destination
San Diego offers endless opportunities to extend your concert experience into a memorable getaway. The city’s world-famous attractions include the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park’s museums and gardens, and miles of pristine beaches from La Jolla to Coronado. The historic Gaslamp Quarter provides dining, nightlife, and entertainment within walking distance of The Rady Shell.
Hotels throughout downtown and the harbor area offer convenient access to the venue. Consider staying at properties along the Embarcadero for easy walking access, or in the Gaslamp Quarter to combine concert-going with San Diego’s vibrant restaurant and bar scene.
Connect with James Taylor
Stay updated on James Taylor’s music and touring through his official channels:
- Official Website: jamestaylor.com
- Tour Schedule: jamestaylor.com/schedule
- Facebook: facebook.com/JamesTaylor
- Instagram: @jamestaylor_com
- YouTube: James Taylor Official
- The Rady Shell: theshell.org
- San Diego Symphony: sandiegosymphony.org
Frequently Asked Questions
When is James Taylor performing in San Diego in 2026?
James Taylor and His All-Star Band perform at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in San Diego on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The concert begins at 7:30 PM, perfectly timed to experience sunset over San Diego Bay as the performance unfolds.
Where is The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park located?
The Rady Shell is located at 200 Marina Park Way in Embarcadero Marina Park South, along San Diego Bay just west of the Convention Center. The venue is walkable from the Gaslamp Quarter and accessible via the San Diego Trolley with stops at Convention Center and Gaslamp Quarter stations.
What is The Rady Shell and why is it special?
The Rady Shell is a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue that opened in 2021 as the permanent home of the San Diego Symphony’s summer season. Designed with world-class acoustics and set directly on San Diego Bay with skyline views, it has been compared favorably to the Hollywood Bowl by major publications including the New York Times and Los Angeles Times.
How long is a James Taylor concert?
James Taylor concerts typically run approximately two hours. His shows follow an “Evening With” format without opening acts, focusing entirely on Taylor and his All-Star Band. Expect a generous performance featuring career-spanning material, between-song storytelling, and extended musical showcases.
What songs will James Taylor play in San Diego?
James Taylor performs a career-spanning setlist including classics like “Fire and Rain,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “Sweet Baby James,” “Carolina in My Mind,” “How Sweet It Is,” “Mexico,” and “Shower the People.” Setlists vary nightly and may include material from his Grammy-winning “American Standard” album.
What is the seating capacity at The Rady Shell?
The Rady Shell accommodates between 2,000 and 10,000 guests depending on event configuration. Seating options include premium table seating close to the stage, reserved terrace seating in the middle sections, and general admission lawn seating on the upper Skyline Terrace.
What should I wear to the James Taylor concert?
Late April evenings in San Diego are comfortable, typically in the 60s Fahrenheit. Layers are recommended as temperatures can drop after sunset. The venue atmosphere is casual, and comfortable attire is appropriate. Consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for after dark.
Is there parking at The Rady Shell?
The Rady Shell does not have a dedicated parking lot. Paid parking is available at nearby facilities including the Convention Center garage, Padres Parkade, and Seaport Village lots. Many attendees use rideshare services or the San Diego Trolley for convenient access.
Can I bring food and drinks to The Rady Shell?
Policies vary by event. Generally, outside food in non-glass containers may be permitted, but outside alcohol is not allowed. The venue offers extensive food and beverage service including full bars throughout the seating areas. Check the venue website for specific policies for your event.
Are James Taylor San Diego tickets sold out?
Even if primary tickets sell out quickly, verified resale tickets remain available through trusted marketplaces like ours. We connect fans with authentic tickets from verified sellers across all seating sections and price points, with full buyer protection on every purchase.
What happens if it rains?
Rain is rare in San Diego in late April. The Rady Shell concerts generally proceed as scheduled regardless of weather conditions. The performance shell itself is covered, though audience seating is open-air. In cases of severe weather, announcements would be made through official venue channels.
Is The Rady Shell accessible?
Yes, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is fully accessible, with ramps providing access to all seating areas. ADA seating is available, and the venue offers accessible restrooms and services. Contact the venue box office for specific accessibility needs.
Can I bring a camera to the James Taylor concert?
Small personal cameras and smartphones are typically permitted for personal photography. Professional cameras with detachable lenses, video recording equipment, and tripods are generally prohibited. Camera policies may vary by artist preference, so check venue guidelines closer to the show date.
What hotels are near The Rady Shell?
Numerous hotels are within walking distance of The Rady Shell, including properties along the Embarcadero, in the Gaslamp Quarter, and near the Convention Center. The Manchester Grand Hyatt, Marriott Marquis, and Hilton San Diego Bayfront offer convenient proximity to the venue.
How do I contact customer service about my ticket order?
Our customer service team is available to assist with any questions about your James Taylor San Diego ticket purchase. Contact information is provided with your order confirmation, and our support team can help with ticket delivery, transfer assistance, and any other order concerns.
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- 200 Marina Park Way
San Diego, California 92101