Most of us listen to music regularly – in the car, at home, sometimes even at work. We can’t deny that iTunes and streaming sites like Spotify have simplified the way we play our music, but there’s just something distinctive about live performances as opposed to recordings. The excitement of seeing and hearing the musicians interact with one another on stage, combined with the energy of the audience, can be thrilling.
Sure, go ahead and create fabulous playlists for your upcoming Memorial Day weekend or 4th of July cookout, but when you’re ready to really experience music, be sure to visit one of the following favorite live music venues here in Phoenix:
1. Joe’s Grotto
Photo by Ben Cane
Founded in 1994 by musician / owner-operator Joe Grotto, Joe’s Grotto is a fairly intimate venue that strives to make bands the center of attention. Open mic nights give up-and-comers the chance to show off their talents, and local rock bands often name Joe’s as their favorite venue in town to play. The pool and dart tournaments, coupled with affordable drink specials, also make Joe’s a fun place to spend an evening.
Joe’s Grotto
13825 N 32nd St.
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone (602) 992-1007
2. Char’s Has the Blues
Considered by many locals to be the best place to hear live blues in the valley, Char’s is the place to experience live blues, R&B, soul, or funk—live musicians are on stage every single night of the week. A bit of a classic “dive bar,” several favorite bands appear regularly, and patrons are eager to crowd onto the dance floor, which is sometimes called too small. Unpretentious and fun, Char’s low prices and honky-tonk atmosphere keep both regulars and tourists coming back for more.
Char’s Has the Blues
4631 N. 7th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone (602) 230-0205
3. The Trunk Space
Part art gallery, part coffee shop, and part performance space, The Trunk Space is as well-known for its art exhibits as well as its live musical performances. Located at the corner of Grand and 15th, patrons of all ages are welcome as alcohol is not served. Popular among hipsters and teens, performers often include punk, emo, and experimental musicians that you just won’t see at any other venue in town.
The Trunk Space
506 Grand Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone (602) 256-6006
4. Comerica Theatre
Formerly known as Dodge Theatre, Comerica is a downtown Phoenix favorite that opened its doors in 2002. Intended to host performances by musicians and bands that won’t necessarily fill huge stadiums, yet draw too large of a crowd for more intimate venues, Comerica is a 5,000-seat theater that puts on a wide variety of acts. In addition to concerts and occasional comedy acts, Comerica has also hosted boxing and other sporting events.
Comerica Theatre
400 W Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone (602) 379-2800
5. Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is located in East Phoenix near Tempe.
While not the first place that comes to mind when the term “live music” is uttered, Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre botanical garden founded in 1937 that regularly hosts live performances by highly-regarded local musicians at its outdoor Ullman Terrace stage. Music in the Garden is a popular Phoenix concert series featuring local favorites, giving patrons the chance to experience live music alongside gorgeous Arizona landscapes.
Desert Botanical Garden
1201 N Galvin Pkwy.
Phoenix, AZ 85008
Phone (480) 941-1225
Music Festivals to Check Out!
If you’re also interested in some music festivals for the summer, here are a few that we think you should totally check out:
Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival
This metal festival features Slayer, King Diamond, Hell Yeah and Devil Wears Prada at the Ak-Chin Pavillion Friday, July 3rd in Phoenix.
Summer Ends Music Festival 2015
Festival will be held at Tempe Beach Park from September 24th through 27th. It will be featuring big names in music such as Jimmy Eat World, J.Cole, Big Sean, Manchester Orchestra and more!
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