MUSIC IN THE MORNING

Just like with summer movies, the summer concerts presented by ABC's Good Morning America and NBC's Today begin long before the actual season does.

The two rival morning shows will go head to head with their respective concert series starting Friday (May 18). The GMA performances will be held in Bryant Park, while Today's will take place in Rockefeller Center.

Here's a look at their schedules into early July, along with recommendations and commentary:

May 18
GMA: Rascal Flatts
Today: All-American Rejects
The lowdown: Modern country trumps so-called modern rock, so tune in to see the dudes in Rascal Flatts (above).

May 25
GMA: Fergie
Today: Blondie with Lily Allen
The lowdown: Who isn't sick of Fergie by now? Watch the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame act and the buzz-worthy British newcomer instead.

May 28
Today: Maroon 5

June 1
GMA: Daughtry
Today: Big & Rich
The lowdown: Take the listenable American Idol alum over the country buffoons.

June 8
GMA: Robin Thicke
Today: Rihanna
The lowdown: It's a push -- as in push the channel changer on the remote for CBS or another station.

June 15
GMA: Brad Paisley
Today: Enrique Iglesias
The lowdown: Eye candy for the ladies; noise pollution for those who dislike generic country and pop.

June 19
Today: Bon Jovi

June 22
GMA: Miley Cyrus
Today: Chicago and America
The lowdown: Fiscal thinking: By watching Today, you can save money and skip seeing these two acts when they hit the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel the next day.

June 29
GMA: Patti LaBelle
Today: Hilary Duff
The lowdown: Go with the lady behind "Lady Marmalade," for sure!

July 6
GMA: Norah Jones
Today: Fall Out Boy
The lowdown: Tough call, but FOB gets the nod because Jones' sleepy songs might send morning-show viewers back to bed.