Ani DiFranco/Ari Hest

About the time she released 1995's Not a Pretty Girl, singer-guitarist Ani DiFranco was on the cover of every major music magazine. She was heralded not only for becoming successful without pandering to commercial radio or MTV, but also for running her own label and keeping a large share of the profits for herself -- all of which suggested that, if only every label were like her Righteous Babe and every artist like DiFranco, the recording industry would be a kinder, gentler place. Turns out, she was way ahead of her time as her mode of operation is now considered to be the best option for musicians trying to make a living in a world with diminishing returns. DiFranco doesn't have a new studio album out but she has such an ardently loyal fanbase, she doesn't need a reason to tour. For this show, bassist Todd Sickafoose and drummer Terence Higgins will back her up. (Niesel)