Live music has to be experienced. The energy of the crowd and the passion of the musicians combine to create a vibe you feel through your whole body. Birmingham is known for its rich music history, but where can you see the next Black Sabbath or Laura Mvula before they blow up?
Here's a list of the best venues to see live music in Birmingham, from low-key spots to see artists on the rise, to electric arenas hosting the biggest acts.
1. Pan Pan
Pan Pan has to be experienced. The cosiest vibe on this list, sink into a velvety sofa and soak up experimental sounds. More than just a venue, Pan-Pan offers a solution for the culture-hungry in Birmingham who are looking for a true third space.
2. The Sunflower Lounge
Catch an intimate gig at the Sunflower Lounge, showcasing up-and-coming bands and local talent. Bringing the glamour and grunge of New York dive bars to Birmingham.
3. The Flapper
Since the 90s, the Flapper's beer garden has been the perfect spot for late summer evening meetups, overlooking the canal. Then head inside to watch their regular offering of live rock, metal, punk, indie and alternative music.
4. The Night Owl
The Night Owl is a quirky, alternative music venue hosting some of Birmingham's most exciting music community offerings. Digbeth Jazz play live every week, and Neighbourhd hold regular events bringing the musicians of the city together to collaborate and grow.
5. The Rainbow Digbeth
The Rainbow is a lovingly restored historic pub in creative Digbeth. They offer an eclectic range of gigs and events, in their basement venue.
6. Hare & Hounds
This historic pub in Kings Heath hosts an eclectic mix of artists, perfect for a midweek gig if you want to discover someone new. It's a short bus ride from the city centre and is well worth the trip.
7. O2 Institute Birmingham
Taking a step up in scale, the 02 Institute is a great mid-sized venue to catch touring bands. You'll normally see a queue of fans winding up the road, waiting to get the perfect spot on the barrier.
8. Utilita Arena Birmingham
You'll see some of the world's biggest artists passing through the Utilita Arena. Its central location makes it perfect for a midweek gig within walking distance of the city centre.
9. Royal Birmingham Conservatoire / Eastside Jazz Club
A lesser-known venue for touring bands, but a great location to soak up live music. The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire is a state-of-the-art facility, so the acoustics are insanely good. They also have Eastside Jazz Club, where students practice jamming on a regular basis. Students and staff at Birmingham City University can get free tickets to many of their events.
These are just our favourite places to experience live music in Birmingham. There's a bubbling creative scene here which is only growing. Discover ways you can be part of it.