Undoubtedly, Los Angeles is among the cities that offer extensive musical heritage in the Golden State. Songs like Gun N’ Roses’ “Welcome to the Jungle,” the Beach Boys’ “California Girls,” and Tupac’s “California Love” all reflect the city’s richness and depth.
Naturally, the venues—big and small—where the city’s musicians perform are at the center of the scene. However, the classic rock-and-roll places with a cozy atmosphere are the ones that music expert Schruers loves the most. The self-described admirer of “claustrophobic small clubs” shared his top five L.A.
Our Top Picks For Best Live Music Venues
Whisky a Go Go
Whisky a Go Go played an important part in the city’s music scene up until the current day, but it is perhaps most well-known for being the venue that played host to some of The Doors’ first performances. This legendary West Hollywood stage has seen performances by Led Zeppelin, Mötley Crüe, and Guns ‘n Roses.
The Roxy Theater, third
The Roxy, a nightclub with a questionable reputation since 1973 when John Lennon used to hold meetings with his friends Harry Nilsson and Keith Moon in the hidden bar upstairs, is located just two blocks from the Whisky on Sunset Boulevard. An identical stage that Neil Young and the Foo Fighters performed on is still used today, and the upstairs bar, On the Rox, is one of the city’s most upscale hangouts.
The Wiltern
The Wiltern, one of Los Angeles’ architectural gems and one of its biggest theatres with a seating capacity of 2,300, boasts some of the most extravagant art deco features of any structure anywhere. However, before seeing a show there, check the schedule since Van Morrison or Deadmau5 are just as likely to be scheduled as the Moscow Ballet or Comedy shows in Los Angeles.
Troubadour
The instantly identifiable TROUBADOUR written in Old English letters marks one of the town’s most legendary nightspots, and it is impossible to miss it while driving down Santa Monica Boulevard. Lenny Bruce was notably detained here in 1957 on obscenity charges; The Byrds met at an open mic here and went on to form; Tom Waits, Elton John, James Taylor, and numerous others honed their craft here.
Inn at Silverlake
This recently restored Silverlake neighborhood institution is a great place to hang out on the Eastern Edge of Los Angeles since there’s always something fascinating going on there, whether it’s a comedy, music, or drag. Lauren Ruth Ward, a celebrated indie-rock vocal powerhouse, supports the modifications made due to the change in ownership.
The Greek Theatre, first
Even though this approximately 6,000-person capacity outdoor arena is not identical to the traditional grungy rock club, many Angelinos nevertheless adore it for its Athenian-inspired grandeur. Anyone can become a fan of a band by seeing them perform beneath the moonlight in the canyon of Griffith Park, and the venue’s more than 90-year history further enhances the appeal.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever hosts summer outdoor movie screenings, Cinespia-hosted playdates with projected movies, live music, games, and several unusual concert events in addition to popular posthumous celebrities. Watching a show here, whether on the grass or in the Local Lodge, is a little bit mystical, and the bands scheduled here are consistently excellent and well-suited to perform for an audience of both the living and the dead.
Wrapping Up
These venues can offer you the best live music in Los Angeles. If you are planning to travel to the city and enjoy some of the incredible shows, you must check the availability of the seats or make a reservation. You can check out this information at Eventsfy and make a booking.
