Hello readers! Are you tired of searching for the perfect place to enjoy live music in Spokane? Do you always end up disappointed by the lack of options or the quality of performances? Well, fear not, because this article is just what you need to find the ultimate spot to indulge in some great tunes! We’ll take a deep dive into the Spokane live music scene and uncover the hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered.
By the end of this article, you can expect to have a comprehensive understanding of the live music scene in Spokane. We’ll tell you about the different types of music genres that are popular in the city, introduce you to some of the top musicians and bands, and provide you with valuable tips on how to make the most of your live music experience. You’ll no longer have to sit at home and stream music when you can enjoy the thrill of being in the same room as your favorite musicians and connecting with fellow music lovers.
So, what’s the solution to your search for the best live music in Spokane? Simple, our guide will show you how to navigate the city’s music venues and give you insights into some lesser-known spots that you won’t want to miss. We’ve done the research and have compiled a list of the hottest places to catch live music, all backed up by rave reviews and genuine fan feedback. By the end of this article, you’ll become a Spokane live music expert and be ready to hit the town for a night of pure musical bliss!
The Best Live Music Venues in Spokane
Spokane is a bustling city in Washington state that is home to several live music venues. The city’s eclectic music scene caters to music lovers of all genres. Here are the best live music venues in Spokane.
The Bartlett
The Bartlett has been a staple in the Spokane music scene since it opened in 2013. This intimate venue boasts a capacity of 150 people and has welcomed notable acts such as Shakey Graves, Lake Street Dive, and Nathaniel Rateliff. The cozy space features a bar, a balcony seating area, and an impressive sound system.
- Location: The Bartlett is located at 228 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201.
- Booking: The venue is available for private events and live concerts. Interested parties can inquire via their website.
- Ambiance: The Bartlett’s warm lighting, rustic decor, and intimate size create an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for experiencing live music.
- Sound system: The venue’s sound system is one of the best in Spokane, and thanks to its size, every seat in the house provides an ideal sound experience.
- Bar: The Bartlett has a full bar featuring a selection of local beers and cocktails.
- Notable events: In addition to hosting notable acts, The Bartlett hosts a weekly open mic night and a monthly storytelling event.
If you’re looking for an intimate live music experience or an ideal date night spot, The Bartlett is a must-visit. The cozy venue, exceptional sound system, and impressive lineup of artists make it one of the best live music venues in Spokane.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Intimate setting | May be too small for some artists or audiences |
| Exceptional sound system | No parking lot; street parking only |
| Full bar with local beers and cocktails | Limited food options |
Overall, The Bartlett provides an unforgettable live music experience that you won’t find anywhere else in Spokane.
How to Find Upcoming Live Music Events in Spokane
Spokane is known for its vibrant music scene, and there are several ways to find upcoming live music events in the city. Whether you are a music lover or simply looking for a fun night out, there are plenty of options to choose from. This article will provide you with some helpful tips on how to discover the best upcoming live music events in Spokane.
Online Sources
One of the easiest ways to find live music events in Spokane is through online sources. There are several websites, social media pages, and mobile applications that provide information about upcoming events in the city. These online sources are convenient because you can access them from anywhere, anytime, and on any device. Some of the most popular online sources for live music events in Spokane are:
These online sources offer a wide range of information about live music events in Spokane, including the event’s name, date, time, location, genre, and ticket prices. Some platforms even allow you to purchase tickets directly through their website or mobile application.
Local Newspapers and Magazines
Another way to find live music events in Spokane is by checking local newspapers and magazines. These publications often feature event listings and reviews of concerts and performances. The Inlander, for example, is a popular weekly newspaper in Spokane that regularly covers the city’s music scene. The paper also has a comprehensive online event calendar, making it easy to find upcoming live music events. Some other local newspapers and magazines that regularly feature live music event listings are:
Checking local newspapers and magazines is a great way to discover new and upcoming bands and musicians in Spokane. Many publications also feature interviews with local artists, giving you insight into their creative process and inspiration.
Word of Mouth
Finally, one of the oldest and most effective ways to find live music events in Spokane is through word of mouth. Talk to your friends, coworkers, and neighbors to find out about upcoming concerts or performances. You can also join local music groups or attend music festivals to meet other music enthusiasts and discover new bands and musicians. Word of mouth is a great way to find hidden gems and underground music scenes in Spokane.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to find upcoming live music events in Spokane. Whether you prefer online sources, local newspapers, or word of mouth, there are plenty of options available. By using these methods, you can discover new and exciting music and support local artists and venues. Live music events are a great way to experience Spokane’s vibrant culture and community, so start exploring today!
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Online Sources |
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| Local Newspapers and Magazines |
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| Word of Mouth |
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Table: Pros and Cons of Different Methods for Finding Live Music Events in Spokane
3. Popular Venues for Live Music in Spokane
Spokane offers a wide range of concert venues which can cater to different music preferences. Some are small and intimate, while some are grand and spacious. In this subsection, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular venues for live music in Spokane.
The Bing Crosby Theater
The Bing Crosby Theater is a historic 750-seat performance arts venue located in downtown Spokane. Originally named the Clemmer Theater, the venue was renovated and renamed after Spokane native, Bing Crosby. The theater offers a variety of music shows, ranging from jazz and blues to country and rock. It also features other acts such as comedy shows, plays, and dance performances.
- The Bing Crosby Theater has hosted some renowned performers like Dave Matthews, Dolly Parton, and Kid Rock.
- The theater has excellent acoustics and stage lighting which create a great atmosphere for live performances.
- Tickets are reasonably priced, with many shows costing less than $30 per ticket.
The Knitting Factory
The Knitting Factory is a unique live music venue known for its innovative design and lighting. Located in downtown Spokane, it can fit up to 1,500 concert-goers. The venue mostly showcases indie rock, alternative bands, and progressive DJs but has also featured many mainstream acts.
- The Knitting Factory is the go-to venue for many legendary bands like ZZ Top and The Wallflowers.
- The venue offers food and drinks and has a bar on-site.
- It features a unique mezzanine balcony that overlooks the stage.
- Many people come to The Knitting Factory for its excellent sound system and vibrant atmosphere.
The Big Dipper
The Big Dipper is a small and intimate venue located in the heart of Spokane. It has a capacity of around 400 and offers a platform for talent to showcase their music. The venue promotes local and regional bands and has helped shape the music scene in Spokane.
- The Big Dipper is known for its all-ages shows, giving young and upcoming musicians a chance to showcase their music.
- The venue is mostly focused on rock and punk rock music but also features indie, blues, and acoustic sets.
- It has made a significant contribution to Spokane’s underground music scene and supports emerging artists.
Table Comparing Spokane’s Live Music Venues
| Venue Name | Capacity | Genre focus | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Bing Crosby Theater | 750 | Jazz, Blues, Country, and Rock | Excellent acoustics and stage lighting, hosts renowned performers |
| The Knitting Factory | 1500 | Indie rock, Alternative bands, Progressive DJs, and some mainstream acts | Unique design and lighting, features a mezzanine balcony, offers food and drinks, and has a bar on-site |
| The Big Dipper | 400 | Rock, Punk rock, Indie, Blues, and Acoustic sets | Supports emerging artists, mostly focused on local and regional musicians, features all-ages shows |
In conclusion, Spokane’s live music scene is a diverse and thriving community with many options for enthusiasts. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, punk, or dance music, Spokane has a concert venue that caters to your preference. From historic theaters to small and intimate venues, you can enjoy a live performance with great acoustics, food, and drinks. And if you’re a young musician looking for an opportunity to showcase your original music, then The Big Dipper has got you covered. Spokane’s live music scene is undoubtedly one of the city’s major attractions and is worth exploring as it continues to grow and evolve.
The Benefits of Live Music in Spokane
Live music events are an important cultural and economic factor in Spokane. They create a sense of community by bringing people together to share an experience, and they help create a vibrant music scene. Beyond the aesthetic and social benefits, live music also has many tangible, economic benefits that make it an important sector of Spokane’s economy.
Economic Impact of Live Music in Spokane
Live music events play an important role in the local economy by providing jobs and increasing tourism. Here are some of the ways live music affects the Spokane economy:
- Revenue: Live music events generate revenue for small businesses such as bars and restaurants, as well as for the performers and the organizers of the event. In fact, according to a study by Americans for the Arts, music events generate $28 for local businesses for every $1 spent on tickets. This means that live music events have a huge impact on the local economy.
- Employment: Live music events provide jobs for performers, sound technicians, and event staff. Additionally, the small businesses that benefit from live music events often hire more people to keep up with the increased demand.
- Tourism: People are often willing to travel in order to see their favorite bands perform live. This means that live music events can attract tourists to Spokane, which can help local businesses that rely on tourism.
To give an idea of the economic impact of live music in Spokane, we can look at the growth of the music scene in recent years. According to the Spokane Public Facilities District, which oversees the Spokane Arena and the First Interstate Center for the Arts, the economic impact of concerts in Spokane has been growing steadily in recent years. In 2016, concerts at Spokane’s two major venues generated $66.7 million for the local economy.
Social Benefits of Live Music
Live music events play an important role in building a sense of community and promoting social cohesion. Here are some of the social benefits of live music:
- Bringing people together: Live music events provide a place for people to come together and share an experience. By doing so, they promote a sense of community that can help bring people together.
- Diversity: Live music events often showcase a diverse range of performers and musical genres. As a result, they promote a sense of cultural diversity and can help people learn about different cultures.
- Promoting creativity: Live music events can inspire creativity and help promote the arts. When people are exposed to live music, they may be more likely to explore their own creativity and to appreciate the arts.
In addition to these social benefits, live music events can also have health benefits. Studies show that listening to live music can help reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being.
Challenges Facing Spokane’s Live Music Scene
While live music events in Spokane have many benefits, there are also challenges that the live music scene faces. Here are some of the biggest challenges:
- Competition: Spokane has a large number of venues that host live music events. While this means that there are many opportunities for performers to play, it also means that there is a lot of competition for audiences.
- Lack of funding: Many local music venues struggle to stay afloat due to a lack of funding. Without adequate financial support, it can be difficult for venues to attract big-name performers or to put on high-quality shows.
- Noise complaints: Occasionally, live music events can generate noise complaints from nearby residents. This can be a challenge for venues that are located in residential areas.
In order to address these challenges, it is important for the live music community in Spokane to work together to support each other. This might involve forming partnerships between venues, seeking out funding opportunities from local businesses and organizations, or finding ways to address noise complaints and other concerns from nearby residents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, live music events play an important role in Spokane’s economy, cultural life, and social fabric. They provide jobs, generate revenue for local businesses, and help create a sense of community. While there are challenges to the live music scene in Spokane, the benefits of live music events make it an important sector of the local economy and a key part of Spokane’s cultural identity.
Discover the Rich History of Live Music in Spokane
Spokane is a city that offers a vast array of live music experiences throughout the year. From small coffee shops to large concert venues, Spokane’s live music scene has something to offer for everyone. The city has a rich history of live music that dates back to the early 1900s when jazz music was introduced to the city. In this article, we will explore the history, genres, venues, and impact of live music in Spokane.
The History of Live Music in Spokane
The history of live music in Spokane dates back to the early 1900s when jazz music was introduced to the city. Jazz music quickly caught on, and many local musicians began playing in jazz bands. In the 1920s, Spokane had a vibrant music scene that included jazz, blues, and swing music.
During the Great Depression, many touring musicians visited Spokane to perform in local clubs and dance halls. These musicians included the likes of Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie. In the 1940s, Spokane had a thriving country music scene, and many local bands began performing in honkytonks and bars.
The 1960s saw the rise of rock and roll, and Spokane quickly adapted to this new genre. The city became a popular stop for touring rock bands, and many local bands began performing their own music. In the 1980s, Spokane had a growing punk rock scene, and many local bands began playing in small clubs and basements.
Today, Spokane has a diverse music scene that includes all genres of music. The city hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Spokane Jazz Festival, the Volume Music Festival, and the Spokane Riverfront Park Summer Concert Series.
The Genres of Live Music in Spokane
Spokane’s live music scene includes all genres of music. The city has a vibrant jazz scene that includes several jazz festivals throughout the year. The blues scene is also alive and well in Spokane, with several local bands playing in local clubs.
Spokane’s rock and roll scene is thriving, with many local bands playing in small clubs and dive bars. The city has also seen a rise in the popularity of electronic music, with several clubs hosting DJs and live electronic acts.
Country music is also popular in Spokane, with several local bands playing in honkytonks and bars. The city even has its own country music festival called the Barefoot in the Park Music Festival.
The Venues of Live Music in Spokane
Spokane has a vast array of music venues that cater to all types of music. Some of the city’s most popular venues include:
- The Knitting Factory – a popular concert venue that hosts nationally touring acts
- The Bing Crosby Theater – a historic theater that hosts a variety of live music, theater, and dance performances
- The Big Dipper – a small, intimate venue that hosts local and regional bands in all genres of music
- The Bartlett – a cozy music venue that focuses on showcasing local and regional talent
- The Pin – a popular club that hosts DJs and electronic music acts
The Impact of Live Music in Spokane
Live music plays an essential role in Spokane’s economy, culture, and community. Spokane’s music scene contributes to the city’s overall economic growth by attracting tourists, creating jobs, and generating revenue for local businesses.
Live music also plays a significant role in Spokane’s culture by providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and express themselves creatively. It brings together people from all walks of life and creates a sense of community.
In conclusion, Spokane has a rich history of live music that includes all genres of music. The city’s music scene continues to thrive, with many local bands and musicians making a name for themselves. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or a die-hard rocker, Spokane’s live music scene has something to offer for everyone.
FAQs about Spokane Live Music
What are the best live music venues in Spokane?
Some of the top music venues in Spokane include The Big Dipper, Knitting Factory Concert House, The Bartlett, and The Pin!
What kind of live music can I expect to find in Spokane?
Spokane offers a diverse range of live music, from rock and electronic to jazz and blues. You can find everything from local bands to national and international acts.
How often are there live music performances in Spokane?
There are live music performances in Spokane every week at various venues. In fact, there are often multiple shows on the same night, giving you plenty of options to choose from!
Are there any free live music events in Spokane?
Yes! The Spokane Symphony offers free concerts in Riverfront Park during the summer, and there are often free live music events at local festivals and events throughout the year.
Where can I find information about upcoming live music events in Spokane?
You can find information about upcoming live music events in Spokane on various websites, including Inlander, Visit Spokane, and Spokane7. You can also follow individual venues on social media for updates.
What is the age limit for attending live music events in Spokane?
The age limit for attending live music events in Spokane varies depending on the venue and the specific event. Some shows may be 18+ or 21+, while others may be all ages.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to live music events in Spokane?
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed at live music events in Spokane, but some venues may allow you to bring in a sealed water bottle. It’s always best to check with the venue before arriving.
What is the average cost of a live music event in Spokane?
The cost of a live music event in Spokane varies depending on the venue, the artist, and the day of the week. You can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 for most shows.
What should I wear to a live music event in Spokane?
The dress code for a live music event in Spokane depends on the venue and the specific event. Some shows may be more casual, while others may require more formal attire. Check with the venue or event organizers for specific guidelines.
Are there any tips for attending live music events in Spokane?
Yes! Arrive early to get a good spot, bring cash for merch and drinks, and be respectful of those around you by not talking loudly during performances. Don’t forget to have fun and show your support for the artists!
Conclusion
Spokane is home to a thriving live music scene with a variety of venues and genres to choose from. From local acts to national acts, there is something for everyone. Keep an eye on websites and social media for upcoming events, and don’t forget to get there early and bring cash for drinks and merch. After the show, consider exploring the downtown area for great restaurants and bars to continue the fun. Thank you for reading, and be sure to check out our other articles for more on Spokane and beyond!