The NPR Tiny Desk Contest On The Road 2024 tour will launch at the iconic Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C. Celebrating the contest’s 10th anniversary, this event will feature a performance by the contest winner, The Philharmonik, with opening acts by local talents Malik Dope and YahZarah Oduro.


This year’s Tiny Desk Contest saw nearly 7,000 unsigned bands and artists from across the country vying for the top spot. The Philharmonik, from Sacramento, California, won over the judges with their eclectic, soul-fueled performance of “What’s It All Mean.” The band, led by Christian Gates, includes Moriah Wenzel, Alicia Huff, Courtney Miller, Samuel Phelps, Darius Upshaw, Connor Chavez, Jimmy Toor, and Jeffery Archie. Their music’s depth and urgency promise an unforgettable live experience.
The Howard Theatre show will be even more special with performances by D.C.’s Malik Dope and YahZarah Oduro. Former America’s Got Talent finalist Malik Dope, known for his dynamic drumming and vibrant stage presence, expressed his excitement on social media: “Yooo, so here’s the exciting news!!! I’ve been selected to perform for the @nprmusic Tiny Desk Contest OTR tour DC stop at @howardtheatre as an opener for this year’s winner @thephilharmonik along with big sis @yahzarah on the lineup too! It’s gonna be a DOPE show indeed, so get your tickets ASAP!”


YahZarah Oduro, a beloved figure in the D.C. music scene, shared her enthusiasm as well: “Guess What Y’all!!!! I’m performing for @tinydeskconcert in #WashingtonDC at the @howardtheatre on Tuesday with one of my favorite people @malik.dope and the tiny desk winner @thephilharmonik. Thank you to each and everyone that voted for me, this is a huge win. The show sold out within minutes so they had to move it to the Howard and I am beyond excited!!! Tickets in bio get them while they last!!! Just practiced with the band last night and we can’t wait to rock you!!! Thank you @tinydeskconcert for this huge honor.”
The NPR Tiny Desk Contest is renowned for discovering and showcasing the best unsigned musical talent nationwide. This year’s judging panel included Tiny Desk host and series producer Bobby Carter, host of All Songs Considered Robin Hilton, musician and producer Bobby Wooten, and several other notable music industry professionals. Their collective expertise ensures that the winner, The Philharmonik, and the other performing artists are among the music industry’s finest talents today.

The Howard Theatre, a historic venue in Washington, D.C., will host this incredible event, ensuring an intimate and memorable experience for all attendees. The concert is generating significant buzz, with tickets selling out rapidly. The NPR Tiny Desk Contest On The Road 2024 tour promises an evening of extraordinary music and unforgettable performances.
For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the NPR Tiny Desk Contest tour page. Stay tuned to NPR Music’s Facebook and Instagram for updates and more exciting news about the tour. Join us at the Howard Theatre for a night of musical brilliance with The Philharmonik, Malik Dope, and YahZarah Oduro. This is an event you won’t want to miss!