Welcome to the ultimate guide to live music in St. Louis, Missouri! In a city that has been described as the “cradle of American music,” it can be overwhelming to know where to start your search for the best live music experiences. From blues and jazz to rock and pop, this article will provide you with all the information you need to know about the city’s vibrant music scene.
By the end of this article, readers can expect to have a deeper understanding of the St. Louis music scene, including where to find the best live music venues and upcoming events. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or new to the scene, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn about unique venues, local artists to follow, and the hottest shows in town.
Not only will this article help you discover new music, but it will also provide you with an opportunity to connect and support the local music community. By attending live shows and supporting local artists, you can contribute to the city’s thriving music culture. Plus, attending live music events can be a powerful and emotional experience that will leave a lasting impression on your soul.
The Best Live Music Venues in St. Louis
St. Louis is a vibrant city with a rich musical history, from Chuck Berry to Nelly, and it is no surprise that it is also home to some of the best live music venues in the country. Whether you are looking for intimate shows or big concerts, St. Louis has something for you.
The Pageant
The Pageant is considered the top music venue in St. Louis, and for good reason. With a capacity of 2,300, this venue brings in some of the biggest names in the music industry, from Green Day to the Black Keys. What makes The Pageant stand out from other venues is their commitment to providing a great concert experience.
- The venue is designed to offer a clear view of the stage from any angle, thanks to its tiered layout.
- The sound quality is outstanding, with a state-of-the-art sound system and knowledgeable sound technicians.
- The staff is friendly and helpful, and they work hard to ensure that everyone has a great time at the show.
- The Pageant is also known for its unique features, such as the starry LED ceiling that provides an immersive experience during concerts.
If you are a music fan visiting St. Louis, The Pageant should be at the top of your list. Keep in mind that tickets for popular shows sell out quickly, so it is best to book them in advance.
Table: The Pros and Cons of The Pageant
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great concert experience | Popular shows sell out quickly |
| Outstanding sound quality | Higher ticket prices |
| Knowledgeable staff | Limited parking |
| Unique features (LED ceiling) | – |
Whether you are a fan of rock, pop, or hip hop, you will find something to love at The Pageant. So go ahead, book your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable concert experience.
Experience the Thrill of St. Louis’ Live Music Scene
St. Louis is known as the “Gateway to the West,” but it is also a gateway to fantastic live music performances. The city is full of music venues and festivals that host local and international artists from different music genres. Whether you are a fan of rock, jazz, blues, or country music, you are sure to find a live music show that will satisfy your musical appetite. In this article, we will discuss the various ways you can experience the thrill of St. Louis’ live music scene.
Live Music Venues in St. Louis
St. Louis has a vibrant music scene, thanks to the numerous live music venues located in different parts of the city. Here are some of the popular live music spots in St. Louis:
- The Pageant
- The Old Rock House
- Blueberry Hill
- The Ready Room
- Delmar Hall
The Pageant
The Pageant is an iconic live music venue located in the Delmar Loop neighborhood. It was opened in 2000 and has a capacity of 2,200 people. The venue has hosted popular artists such as Coldplay, The Killers, The Black Keys, and many others. The stage at The Pageant is known to feature an impressive lighting and sound system, making the music experience all the more thrilling.
The Old Rock House
As its name suggests, The Old Rock House is a historic building located in the Soulard neighborhood that was built in 1818. Since 2007, it has been converted into a music venue that hosts local and national artists. The venue has a capacity of 1,000 people and features a wide array of music genres such as indie, rock, blues, and country music.
Blueberry Hill
Blueberry Hill is not just a music venue, but it also has an extensive collection of pop-culture memorabilia that includes vintage jukeboxes, neon signs, and classic toys. It is a nostalgic venue that has welcomed artists such as Chuck Berry, Elvis Costello, and BB King over the years. Blueberry Hill has two stages, The Duck Room and The Elvis Room, which showcase different music styles.
Music Festivals in St. Louis
St. Louis is also famous for its annual music festivals, which attract music lovers from all over the world. These festivals are great opportunities to experience live music, meet new people, and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture. Here are some of the music festivals in St. Louis that you shouldn’t miss:
- LouFest
- St. Louis Bluesweek
- Taste of St. Louis
- Big Muddy Blues Festival
- Whitaker Music Festival
LouFest
LouFest is St. Louis’ premier annual music festival that features both local and national artists from different music genres. The festival is usually held at the Forest Park and attracts more than 30,000 patrons every year. The festival has featured artists such as Kings of Leon, LCD Soundsystem, and Kendrick Lamar.
St. Louis Bluesweek
St. Louis Bluesweek is an annual festival that celebrates the city’s rich blues heritage. The festival features live music performances, workshops, and presentations that showcase the legends of blues music as well as the new wave of performers.
Taste of St. Louis
Taste of St. Louis is not just a music festival, but also a food festival that highlights the city’s culinary scene. The festival features live music, food from different restaurants in St. Louis, and activities for all ages. The festival has hosted artists such as Gavin DeGraw, Sister Hazel, and Better Than Ezra.
Pros and Cons of Live Music Venues and Festivals in St. Louis
To help you decide which live music experience is right for you, here are some pros and cons of live music venues and festivals in St. Louis:
| Live Music Venues | Music Festivals |
|---|---|
| Intimate setting | Wide variety of artists from different genres |
| More affordable tickets compared to festivals | Great opportunity to explore different genres of music and discover new artists |
| Better opportunity to focus on the music | Lively atmosphere and energetic crowd |
| Usually have multiple showtimes every week | May require extensive planning and travel |
| Less variety in terms of activities | Higher ticket prices and additional fees |
Conclusion
Experience the thrill of St. Louis’ live music scene by visiting its numerous live music venues and attending its annual music festivals. From rock to blues to country and beyond, you are sure to find a musical style that will suit your tastes. Whether you prefer an intimate setting or a lively atmosphere, St. Louis has it all. So get ready to rock and roll!
Where to Catch Live Music in St. Louis: A Guide for Music Lovers
St. Louis is a vibrant city with a thriving music scene. From blues and jazz to indie rock and pop, there is something for every music lover in St. Louis. If you’re new to the city or simply looking for some new venues to explore, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive list of places to catch live music in St. Louis.
Downtown St. Louis
Downtown St. Louis is the heart of the city’s music scene, with several venues that host live music throughout the week. Here are some of the top venues to check out in the area:
- The Pageant
- Blueberry Hill
- BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups
- Old Rock House
- Kiel Opera House
Located in the historic Delmar Loop, The Pageant is one of the city’s premier venues for live music. With a capacity of up to 2,300 people, the venue has hosted everyone from Elton John to My Morning Jacket. The Pageant also offers a VIP lounge and private suites for guests who want a more upscale experience.
This iconic restaurant and music venue has been a staple in the Delmar Loop since 1972. While it’s known for its burgers and vintage jukebox, Blueberry Hill also hosts live music several nights a week. The intimate Duck Room has hosted up-and-coming artists like The Lumineers and The Black Keys.
If you’re looking for some authentic blues and jazz music, BB’s is the place to go. Located on South Broadway in downtown St. Louis, BB’s hosts live music every night of the week. The venue has been voted the best blues club in St. Louis by the Riverfront Times for several years running.
This venue on South 7th Street has a capacity of up to 600 people and hosts a variety of live music, including rock, country, and hip hop. The Old Rock House also has a full menu, with dishes like pizza, sandwiches, and salads.
This historic venue in downtown St. Louis has been recently restored to its former glory. With a capacity of over 3,000 people, the Kiel Opera House has hosted many famous musicians and comedians, including Louis Armstrong, the Rolling Stones, and Jerry Seinfeld.
| Venue | Location | Capacity | Style of Music |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Pageant | Delmar Loop | 2,300 | Rock, Pop, Indie |
| Blueberry Hill | Delmar Loop | N/A | Rock, Indie, Folk |
| BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups | Downtown St. Louis | N/A | Blues, Jazz |
| Old Rock House | South 7th Street | 600 | Rock, Country, Hip Hop |
| Kiel Opera House | Downtown St. Louis | 3,000 | Various |
Overall, downtown St. Louis has a great mixture of high-capacity venues and more intimate settings for live music. Whether you’re looking for blues, jazz, rock, or pop, you’re sure to find something that suits your musical taste in this vibrant part of the city.
St. Louis’ Top Live Music Events You Can’t Miss
When it comes to live music events in St. Louis, the city has so much to offer. From local acts to big names, there is a venue for every genre and taste. If you’re a music lover, you’ll want to check out these top live music events that you can’t miss.
The Pageant
The Pageant is one of St. Louis’ premier concert venues. It’s a 2,300-capacity venue that attracts both local and national acts. The venue has won numerous awards, including Billboard’s Best Small Venue and Rolling Stone’s Best Club in America.
The Pageant hosts more than 200 events per year, featuring a variety of music genres, including hip hop, rock, pop, and more. The venue also has a bar that serves drinks and food.
If you’re planning on attending a show at The Pageant, here are some things you should know:
- Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- The venue is general admission, so it’s first come, first served.
- The Pageant has a strict no re-entry policy, so make sure you have everything you need before entering.
- There are plenty of parking options available in the area, but be prepared to pay for parking.
- The venue is all-ages, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Fox Theatre
The Fox Theatre is a historic venue that was built in 1929. It’s a 4,500-capacity venue that features a variety of events, including concerts, musicals, and comedies. The venue boasts a beautiful interior, with ornate details and a starry sky ceiling.
The Fox Theatre attracts both local and national acts, and is a popular destination for music lovers. Some of the biggest names in music have performed at the Fox Theatre, including James Taylor, Bob Seger, and Elton John.
If you’re planning on attending a show at the Fox Theatre, here are some things you should know:
- Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- The venue has assigned seating.
- The Fox Theatre has a strict no-camera policy.
- Parking is available in the area, but be prepared to pay for parking.
- The venue is all-ages, but some shows may have age restrictions.
Schlafly Tap Room
The Schlafly Tap Room is a local brewery that features live music on the weekends. It’s a more intimate venue compared to The Pageant and Fox Theatre, with a capacity of about 300 people.
The Schlafly Tap Room features a variety of local acts, including blues, rock, and folk. The venue also serves food and drinks, including their own locally brewed beers.
If you’re planning on attending a show at the Schlafly Tap Room, here are some things you should know:
- The venue is free to enter, but some shows may have a cover charge.
- The Schlafly Tap Room does not allow smoking.
- The venue has a parking lot, but it can fill up quickly.
- The Schlafly Tap Room is all-ages, but those under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is a world-renowned orchestra that performs at the Powell Symphony Hall. The hall has a capacity of 2,689 people and features some of the best acoustics in the world.
The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is known for its diverse repertoire, featuring classical music, pops concerts, and family concerts. The orchestra has also collaborated with a variety of artists, including Tony Bennett and Harry Connick Jr.
If you’re planning on attending a show at the Powell Symphony Hall, here are some things you should know:
- Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- The venue has assigned seating.
- The Powell Symphony Hall has a dress code, so make sure to dress appropriately.
- Parking is available in the area, but be prepared to pay for parking.
- The venue is all-ages, but some shows may have age restrictions.
| Venue | Capacity | Genre | Age Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Pageant | 2,300 | Variety | Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult |
| Fox Theatre | 4,500 | Variety | Some shows may have age restrictions |
| Schlafly Tap Room | 300 | Local acts | Those under 21 must be accompanied by an adult |
| Powell Symphony Hall | 2,689 | Classical, pops, and family concerts | Some shows may have age restrictions |
In conclusion, St. Louis has a wide variety of live music events that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer big concerts or more intimate venues, there’s something for every music lover in St. Louis. So, mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these top live music events.
From Jazz to Blues: Exploring the Diverse Live Music Scene in St. Louis
Subsection 5: The Economic Impact of Live Music in St. Louis
Live music is more than just entertainment. It has a significant impact on the economic development of a city or community. According to a study conducted by Americans for the Arts, St. Louis is one of the top cities in the United States for arts and culture, with an annual economic impact of over $472 million. Live music plays a crucial role in this.
The Direct Economic Impact of Live Music in St. Louis
The direct economic impact of live music can be measured in terms of revenue generated by music-related businesses and events. In St. Louis, live music generates millions of dollars in revenue annually for the following:
- Music venues and concert halls
- Musicians and performers
- Sound engineers and lighting technicians
- Equipment rental companies
- Ticket sellers and event promoters
Not to mention the revenue generated by food and beverage sales at concerts and events. According to St. Louis Regional Chamber, live music accounts for over 16,000 jobs in the region.
The Indirect Economic Impact of Live Music in St. Louis
The impact of live music on the local economy goes beyond direct revenue generation. It creates a ripple effect that benefits other industries and sectors. Here are some examples:
- Tourism: Live music is a major tourist draw. According to the U.S. Travel Association, music-related tourism generates approximately $7.2 billion in revenue annually in the United States. In St. Louis, music festivals such as LouFest and blues events such as the Big Muddy Blues Festival attract thousands of tourists every year.
- Real Estate: Live music venues can be a catalyst for real estate development. They attract foot traffic to an area and create a vibrant social atmosphere, making it more appealing for businesses and residents. The city of St. Louis has recognized this and introduced initiatives such as the Neighborhood Development Fund to support the development of arts and cultural districts.
- Education: Live music can inspire and educate. Children and adults alike can benefit from music education programs, which can lead to a career in the music industry or other related fields. In St. Louis, organizations such as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Jazz St. Louis offer educational programs that reach thousands of students each year.
- Brand and Image: Live music can enhance a city’s brand and image, making it more attractive to potential investors, residents, and visitors. It reflects the city’s diversity, creativity, and spirit. In St. Louis, live music has helped to reinforce the city’s reputation as a cultural hub and attract talent from all over the world.
The Future of Live Music in St. Louis
The future of live music in St. Louis looks promising. The city has a vibrant music scene that continues to evolve and prosper. The following are some initiatives and trends to watch out for:
- New Venues and Festivals: The opening of new music venues and the revival of old ones such as the St. Louis Theatre have injected fresh energy into the music scene. The city also hosts several successful music festivals such as the St. Louis Blues Festival and the St. Louis Music Festival.
- Collaboration and Diversity: The music scene in St. Louis is becoming more collaborative and diverse. Musicians are crossing genres and collaborating with artists from other fields such as dance and theater. The city also has a growing hip-hop scene, thanks to artists such as Smino and Tef Poe.
- Digital Innovation: Technology is transforming the music industry, and St. Louis is keeping up with the pace. Platforms such as Bandcamp and Soundcloud have enabled artists to self-promote and reach a wider audience. Podcasts such as We Are Live! and Gold Minds are also showcasing local talent.
| Pros of Live Music in St. Louis | Cons of Live Music in St. Louis |
|---|---|
|
|
In conclusion, live music in St. Louis is more than just a form of entertainment. It has a significant impact on the city’s economic and cultural development. As the music scene continues to evolve, it will not only benefit local businesses and musicians but also the community as a whole.
FAQs for Live Music St Louis
What are the best live music venues in St Louis?
St Louis is known for its rich musical heritage and has an abundance of live music venues. Blueberry Hill, The Pageant, The Sheldon Concert Hall, and Delmar Hall are some of the top-notch music venues in the area. The historic Fox Theater, the Broadway Oyster Bar, and The Old Rock House are also among the best places where you can catch live music in St Louis.
What is the music scene like in St Louis, Missouri?
The music scene in St Louis is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of genres, including blues, jazz, rock, and country. The city’s music culture is influenced by its African American neighborhoods, where jazz, blues, and gospel music blossomed. St Louis has produced notable musicians like Miles Davis, Chuck Berry, and Tina Turner, and many renowned music festivals like LouFest and the St Louis Blues Festival are held in the city every year.
What kind of live music is played in St Louis?
St Louis has a diverse music scene with a wide range of genres represented, such as jazz, blues, rock, country, bluegrass, and hip-hop. You can find live music performances around the city’s bars, clubs, parks, and outdoor venues.
What are some free live music events I can attend in St Louis?
There are several free live music events in St Louis that you could attend. Events like Bluesweek Festival, Old Webster Jazz and Blues Festival, St Louis Music Festival, and Shakespeare in the Park offer free live music performances. Venues such as Tower Grove Park and the Missouri Botanical Garden often hold summer music series with free admission.
How do I find upcoming live music events in St Louis?
You can find upcoming live music events in St Louis on social media platforms or websites dedicated to live music events like Bandsintown, Songkick, and Eventful. Additionally, you can search local newspapers, listen to local radio stations, or ask your friends who know the music scene in the area.
Is there live music on weekdays in St Louis?
Yes, some places have live music events on weekdays in St Louis. Clubs and bars like BB’s Jazz, Blues & Soups, Blues City Deli, and Venice Café have live music shows on weekdays, including some open mic nights.
What are the best neighborhoods for live music in St Louis?
Soulard, The Loop, and Delmar Loop are popular neighborhoods for live music in St Louis. These areas are home to many bars, clubs, and venues that offer live music performances.
What are some tips for seeing live music in St Louis?
You should always check for venue requirements before you attend a live music show. Many St Louis bars and clubs do not allow smoking or outside food and drinks. You should also arrive early to get a good spot, as some venues get filled up quickly. It’s also suggested to check the weather, dress comfortably, and carry cash as some venues may not accept credit cards.
What is the age limit for live music shows in St Louis?
The age limit for live music shows in St Louis may vary depending on the venue. Most bars and clubs require patrons to be 21 years or above, while other venues are all-ages or have varying age limits. It is best to check with the venue or website beforehand.
Can I bring my kids to live music events in St Louis?
Some music festivals and outdoor concerts in St Louis may offer family-friendly events where children can attend. However, many bars and clubs have age restrictions, and it is recommended to check with the venue or website before attending.
Conclusion
In conclusion, St Louis has a thriving music scene with a rich cultural history. The city offers a variety of live music events and venues for music lovers to enjoy. Whether you prefer jazz, blues, rock, or country, you will undoubtedly find something to your liking in St Louis. After reading this article, you could plan your next music experience by attending one of the events mentioned here or exploring more opportunities. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore St Louis’s music scene.
Goodbye for now, and don’t forget to check out another exciting article to learn more about St Louis.