VEGAS MUSIC UPDATE: Strip Embraces Nostalgia with Smokey & Gladys, Paul Anka, Jimmy & Terry |

Published on: January 28, 2026, 11:49 AM.

Updated on: January 28, 2026, 11:49 AM.

This week, the average age of prominent musicians scheduled to perform in Las Vegas stands at 77 years. This showcases the enduring appeal of these legendary artists. However, it also highlights the distance the Strip must cover to engage with Generation Z, the audience that will shape its future.

Smokey Robinson and Gladys Knight performance — Smokey Robinson captivated audiences at the Venetian with a four-night stint in April 2025. He has also showcased “Human Nature: The Motown Show,” a fixture in the city since 2009. Gladys Knight previously held residencies at the Flamingo (2002-2005) and the Tropicana (2011). (Image: Palms)

The highlight of the announcements is a collaborative show featuring Motown icons and Las Vegas veterans Smokey Robinson, 85, and Gladys Knight, 81. Titled “Just the Two of Us,” this performance will occur at the Pearl at the Palms on April 25.

Robinson is known for shaping the Motown sound with hits from the Miracles like “Shop Around,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” and “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me.” He also composed classics such as “My Girl,” “Get Ready,” and solo hits like “Cruisin’” and “Being With You.”

Knight is celebrated for her soul anthems with the Pips, including “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “If I Were Your Woman,” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.”

Tickets for this event will be available for purchase starting at 10 a.m. PT on Friday, January 30, via AXS.com.

Anka Takes the Stage

Paul Anka live performance — Paul Anka, seen here performing in 2024, is the mastermind behind “My Way” for Frank Sinatra, as well as “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” “She’s A Lady,” and the theme for Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show.” (Image: Jeremy Chan/Getty)

Paul Anka, 84, will also grace the Pearl at the Palms for the first time on May 16.

Previously, Anka made history as the inaugural performer at the Fontainebleau’s BleauLive Theater two years ago.

Tickets for this performance will also be available starting at 10 a.m. PT on Friday, January 30, via AXS.com.

The New Wave of Talent

Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis (66 & 69) are gearing up for their debut Las Vegas residency at Voltaire at the Venetian on April 17-18, 22, and 24-26.

“We’ve had the privilege of achieving many milestones in our careers, yet we’ve never had the chance to deliver our extensive collection of hits live,” Jam remarked in a statement.

The duo, who have earned five Grammy Awards and are Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, will showcase their chart-topping tracks that they wrote or produced for artists like Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Usher, Boyz II Men, and Mariah Carey.

“The combination of storytelling and live music will transport attendees through a nostalgic journey of their favorite tunes,” Lewis added.

Tickets will go on sale at 10 a.m. PT on Wednesday, January 28, at voltairelv.com.

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