Austin, TX Concerts & Live Music

Ok, there have literally been books written about the incredible Austin music scene (this one ain’t too shabby), but we don’t have time to write a book (and I doubt you want to read a book right now).

So here is the Spark notes edition on the Live Music Capital of the World.

Listen Up

First off, it’s important to note that Austin may be losing its title as the Live Music Capital of the World. This hidden little gem of a city has been discovered and it’s only a matter of time before the struggling musicians, the soul of this city’s music scene, are run out of town. But we’ve got a way to go before we arrive at that apocalypse, so fear not. If you want to see live music or a concert in Austin, you still have time. 

Get Dirty

For every city, there’s the good, the bad, and the ugly, so let’s get through the ugly and build up to the best. And by ugly, we don’t mean avoid Dirty 6th, we just mean you better be prepared to get shitty and drunk.

Dirty 6th is the part of 6th Street that is usually blocked off because there are so many people that cars cannot drive through (think Bourbon or Beale Street). It’s an absolute spectacle, and a must-see for anyone visiting, as there are college students, locals, and tourists, hopping in and out of the many bars that line 6th.

If you’re looking for a spot to see some music, duck into any of them and you’ll be delighted to find a live band. Bars here don't separate themselves from the next, but if we had to pick one for you, we’d direct you towards the Blind Pig Pub. Or if you’re really looking for some music with a show, head to Coyote Ugly or Bikinis Sports Bar and Grill where the views are included, on the house.

Cultured

Hopefully you’ve made it out of Dirty 6th alive and ready for a little culture. Red River is ready to greet you on the other side of 6th Street with a slew of great venues, from the dives up to larger scenes.

If you’re looking to hear musicians that will be famous next year, head to Cheer-Up Charlie’s. For the punk rocker type, Beerland is a spot that will transport you to an era of yesteryear. Mohawk is one more, perfect for those ready for something a little bigger--there is some stadium seating for everyone to see the act. Oh, we heard the beard-off events are pretty cool too.

Authentic Austin

Remember these two names: White Horse and the Continental Club.

The White Horse is known for always having great bands, and we personally love how patrons young and old mix and mingle on the dance floor like there’s nothing weird about it. The godfather of them all is the Continental Club, where top musicians roll through to blow the roof off (think Stevie Ray Vaughan). Redd Volkaert, one of the best country guitarists has made his residency there. Don’t expect any youngin’s from Dirty 6th to appear on a given night. The crowd is...mature. No need to worry about making elbow room or finding space to chat.

Sunday Funday

Looking for a Sunday Funday joint? Sure there are many, but we say Ginny’s Little Longhorn is an absolute must. Three words: Chicken Shit Bingo. 

It’s a thing. On Sundays, a chicken is brought out in a cage and everyone takes bets on where the chicken will --ahem--relieve itself. Dale Watson, a local music legend, owns the place and he does an incredible job of making sure there are always amazing acts.

Festys

Huge names come through Austin all the time, and if they’re too big for the venues aforementioned, then chances are they’ll be headlining UT’s Frank Erwin Center. The Moody Theater pops off in October for the weekend music festival Austin City Limits. This festival is comparable to Coachella and attracts big names like Drake, The Weeknd, Pearl Jam, Elvis Costello, Johnny Cash, and Neil Young. Eclectic is an understatement.

South by Southwest is a scene of all scenes. It’s definitely an incredible festival, where you can discover new music, film makers, and companies, all the while seeing the biggest names in the business up close. There’s not one set venue, as literally bars, venues, and the convention center all host. 

Wondering how to get around all these awesome venues and bars? It’s pretty easy since Austin is a small town and most places are walkable. You can even hop on a bike with the convenient B-Cycle but BUI’s are a thing people, don’t get hurt (or arrested).

So there you have it. If after reading all of this, you’re still not sure where to go, just walk down the street and pop into a bar, order a Lone Star, and go from there. 

Browse for tickets to concerts in Austin at EvilTickets.