Atlanta has lengthy been a hub for reside music. From the legendary Louis Armstrong performances at The Prime Hat Membership (now referred to as the Royal Peacock) on Auburn Avenue within the Thirties, to Sabrina Claudio perfecting an attention-grabbing set at Tabernacle, Georgia’s capital has lengthy been house to a number of the finest live shows and venues within the nation. When you’re searching for a life-affirming live performance to take a look at proper, look no additional than these dive bars, live performance halls, and amphitheaters.
Ponce Metropolis Market Along with the general coolness of PCM, it’s additionally house to Metropolis Vineyard, a spot with an unlimited number of wine (and an outstanding Tasting Room), a restaurant with a dope menu, and naturally—a stage the place you may hear a number of the finest reside music within the metropolis. Together with its common jazz live shows all through the month, there’s additionally a variety of performances from R&B and nation artists as effectively. The ambiance inside is intimate, and the surface patio provides you a tremendous view whilst you take heed to whomever is slated to grace the principle stage. The place to eat and drink close by: Ruby Chow’s, Minero, and 9 Mile Station.
Centennial Park District Situated in Downtown’s Centennial Park District, this former church has an extended historical past behind its doorways. The constructing opened in 1911 as a church and have become a Home of Blues in anticipation of the ‘96 Olympic Video games—however to little success. A yr later, it transitioned into the Tabernacle we all know and love at present. It often hosts native acts in addition to world superstars, which suggests attendance can fluctuate from a couple of hundred folks to nearly 2,500. The primary flooring is standing room solely, whereas there’s reserved seating within the higher ranges, so the venue can accommodate anybody’s stage of fandom. The place to eat and drink close by: Waffle Home, Ted’s Montana Grill, and Margaritaville.
East Atlanta Village Nestled within the coronary heart of East Atlanta Village, The EARL has lengthy been a haven for each native and budding rock bands, in addition to the extra established unbiased artists. You’ll be able to expertise its vibe simply by strolling on Flat Shoals—lots of its attendees are posted proper on the sidewalk having a drink, clamoring over the night’s more moderen efficiency. Upon entry, you’ll cross the principle room the place you may sit down for a chunk to eat whereas your favourite band rocks the home, or journey to the decrease room within the again, the place it is extra of a live performance setting. The venue has held occasions for a wide range of genres—from the heaviest of steel to town’s A3C hip-hop competition—so no matter you want, yow will discover it right here. The place to eat and drink close by: Argosy, EAV Thai & Sushi, and Blu Cantina.
Buckhead Billed because the oldest outside music venue in Atlanta, the Cadence Financial institution Amphitheatre At Chastain Park supplies finest in rock, the most popular R&B, and hip-hop, or legendary performances from basic entertainers. With it being exterior, you may convey your individual every thing, which provides to the general reside expertise. It’s proper in Buckhead, so there are many websites to see exterior of the place as effectively. It’s simply loopy that acts corresponding to Earth, Wind & Fireplace, Elton John, Anthony Hamilton, Alicia Keys, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra all carried out right here at one level or one other. What makes the area actually particular is you can come solo, for an intimate date evening, or come for the proper household outing with family members. The place to eat and drink close by: Hal’s, South Metropolis Kitchen Buckhead, and Goldbergs Fantastic Meals.
Midtown The notorious Middle Stage is definitely house to a few separate areas. First, is the flagship venue—the historic Middle Stage Theater—recognized for its acoustics and intimate reside present expertise. That’s the place bigger acts would carry out, corresponding to Jay Z, Woman Gaga, and Katy Perry. Second is the Loft, which is situated on the second flooring, provides full bar service, a view of the Midtown skyline, and has a capability of about 650 folks. Final (however not least) is Vinyl, the 300-capacity staple within the native music scene. At Vinyl you may take a look at a number of the finest up-and-coming expertise earlier than they hit it large. The place to eat and drink close by: DaVinci’s Pizza, Nan Thai, and Institution.
Midtown Constructed nearly 100 years in the past, this former Shriners headquarters has established itself as one of many premiere areas in Atlanta for reside music. Its Islamic and Egyptian-inspired construction additionally supplies an intimate setting for live shows, and it additionally comprises a 3,622-pipe Möller organ that continues to be the biggest of its form on the earth. Your entire constructing exudes excellence—from the lengthy, Hollywood premiere-like walkway to the mural of the night sky above its stadium-style seating. The Fox is extra upscale than a number of the different extremely regarded music venues within the metropolis, so regardless of the time of week, ensure you throw in your Sunday finest. The place to eat and drink close by: Edgar’s Proof & Provision, Publik Draft Home, and The Ponce Room Bar & Kitchen.
East Atlanta On this East Atlanta spot previously occupied by an old-school bar referred to as the Village, you may discover 529—a small venue with another vibe and a completely stocked bar. It hosts up-and-coming bands about six nights per week, so there’s at all times music exuding from this spot in EAV. When you’re not in a position to get to the stage, there is a closed-circuit TV above the bar on which you’ll watch the band enjoying. What 529 lacks in area it makes up for in aesthetic due to the reside band choice, pleasant employees, and quick access. The place to eat and drink close by: Flatiron, Octopus Bar, and The Glenwood.
Little 5 Factors Situated in the course of Atlanta’s most unusual neighborhoods—Little 5 Factors—this live performance venue grew to grow to be among the finest locations on the town to see the highest bands within the 404. A part of the Selection’s allure is its delicate, not-too-large dimension. The smaller environment provides for a extra intimate setting for its attendees. It was constructed within the Forties so its old-school structure provides you a way of nostalgia proper once you stroll by way of the door. The place to eat and drink close by: Nook Tavern, Hudson Grille, and The Vortex.
Little 5 Factors Aisle 5 is a music venue in Atlanta’s Little 5 Factors neighborhood that hosts live shows for native and nationwide touring artists. Its unique identify was the 5 Spot, however in 2014 the complete place was renovated, and it acquired a brand new stage with an up to date sound system. It isn’t married to any particular style, so you may catch performances from artists specializing in hip-hop, rock, R&B, and plenty of extra. The place to eat and drink close by: Crave, Euclid Avenue Yacht Bar, and Thai 5 & Sushi Bar.
Buckhead In-built 1930, this institution initially ran as a second-run movie show however after a number of renovations and identify adjustments, it’s now recognized at present because the Buckhead Theatre. It’s one of many few venues in Atlanta that really appears like a conventional theater from the surface—particularly in case you’re viewing it from Loudermilk Park. Though this institution is supplied for weddings, seminars, and company occasions, it’s finest for live shows and reside music consumption. The cutting-edge sound system and theater-style seating (or standing, whichever is ok), makes for a top quality listening expertise. The place to eat and drink close by: The Iberian Pig, Velvet Taco, and The Capital Grille.
Downtown Established in 1989, and initially housed inside Dupree’s Excelsior Mill, The Masquerade moved to Kenny’s Alley in Underground Atlanta a couple of years in the past. The venue options three music rooms: Heaven, 1,400 capability room; Hell, which holds 550 concertgoers; and Purgatory which holds about 300 folks. On the middle of all of it is an open-air courtyard the place you’ll discover music fans from all walks of life. All through its historical past this occasion area has offered artists from completely different genres, together with Nirvana, 9 Inch Nails, Kendrick Lamar, and the Foo Fighters, together with a number of others. The place to eat and drink close by: Jamrock Restaurant, Taqueria on Broad, and Thrive.
Advertisement
West Midtown This former iron and metal foundry turned live performance area in West Midtown often hosts a number of the high native acts, nevertheless it additionally conducts reveals for some large names as effectively. The venue holds a bit over 600 folks and is standing room solely more often than not, so be ready for an intimate atmosphere full of enthusiastic followers. One of many coolest issues about Terminal West is that along with its fashionable manufacturing expertise, it maintains the manufacturing facility ambiance. The venue’s acoustics and wonderful audio system are why it stays a to-go spot for ATLiens and outsiders alike. The place to eat and drink close by: Ormsby’s, Barcelona Wine Bar, and Eight Sushi Lounge.
Downtown In 2011, Candy Georgia’s Juke Joint opened within the iconic 200 Peachtree constructing within the coronary heart of Downtown Atlanta. Modeled after the watering holes of yesteryear, this venue has a nostalgic wall of interval images, historic artifacts, and a 18-foot mural from native artist Stacy Wooden. The reside music is the true draw, the place attendees are in a position to dance to the sounds of no matter band is enjoying that night. The combination of meals, enjoyable, and reside leisure is Candy Georgia’s declare to fame. The place to eat and drink close by: Gus’s, Tin Lizzy’s Cantina, and Slice.
Midtown Based in 1994, Smith’s Olde Bar has continued to be one in every of Atlanta’s most historic music venues. For years, this tiny Midtown bar throughout from Ansley Mall has hosted a number of native up-and-coming musicians, in addition to some notable names in music corresponding to David Bowie, Janelle Monae, Kings of Leon, John Mayer, B.o.B, Bjork, Zack Brown Band, and plenty of extra. Together with nice music, SOB additionally supplies a number of the finest billiards competitors within the metropolis. The place to eat and drink close by: Bantam + Biddy, Fats Matt’s Rib Shack, and Varuni Napoli.
East Atlanta Beltline In relation to ambiance, this institution actually takes the cake. Situated on the East Atlanta Beltline, the surface patio has the proper view of town’s night skyline, and the firepits add to the intimate environment. Pop up for his or her Grooves within the Grove, which is a weekly music collection of native and nationwide acts that convey indie, bluegrass, nation and Americana-centric tunes to the Ladybird Grove & Mess Corridor. The place to eat and drink close by: Superica, Ticonderoga Membership, and Umai Sushi & Noodles.
Reynoldstown Situated in Reynoldstown, The Japanese is a state-of-the artwork reside music venue situated within the Atlanta Dairies complicated. It opened in September of final yr, nevertheless it’s already gained traction as a hotspot for reside occasions and live performance goers. In its transient historical past, the checklist of performers already contains artists corresponding to Saint JHn, Massive Boi, Thundercat, and extra. The place to eat and drink close by:Agave Restaurant, Taqueria Tsunami, and Salata.
House Park The Northside Tavern was constructed within the 1940’s, and finally established itself as one in every of Atlanta’s finest dive bars. With reside blues seven nights per week—and no cowl on Monday by way of Thursday—it’s undoubtedly grow to be a favourite with music lovers. The place to eat and drink close by: La Fonda Latina, Six Toes Beneath, and The Optimist.
Little 5 Factors Star Group Bar is a standout venue in Little 5 Factors situated proper throughout the road from The Vortex. It has established itself as among the finest spots in Atlanta to take a look at native and rising various and indie-rock artists. It additionally has an awesome employees, pinball machines, a photograph sales space, and is house to the infamous Elvis Vault, full of memorabilia from Elvis Presley. The place to eat and drink close by: Savage Pizza, Hattie B’s, and Elmyr.
Need extra Thrillist? Observe us on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat!
Advertisement
Okla Jones is an Atlanta-based journalist who writes about meals, effective arts, and leisure. His work additionally seems in ESSENCE, Inventive Loafing Atlanta, and Consequence of Sound. Observe him on Instagram at @coolhandoak.
Patrick Mahomes on what makes this season different than previous NFL playoff runs
Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes explains how he’s preparing for the playoffs, and how his Doritos commercial is a nod to his Texas upbringing.
The Atlanta Falcons have decided on their next defensive coordinator after making a change just one year into Raheem Morris’ reign as head coach.
Former New York Jets defensive coordinator and interim coach Jeff Ulbrich was hired by the Falcons for the role, the team announced Saturday.
Advertisement
Ulbrich, 47, took over the Jets’ top job after coach Robert Saleh was fired following a 2-3 start to the season. He compiled a 3-9 mark as the Jets extended their NFL-high postseason drought to 14 seasons.
Prior to stepping in for the Jets, Ulbrich had been a highly regarded defensive coordinator. His units finished in the top four in yards allowed in the last three seasons, though the Jets ranked 20th in scoring in 2024.
Ulbrich returns to Atlanta after serving as an assistant for the organization from 2015-20, including a stint as defensive coordinator when Morris was promoted to interim head coach following Dan Quinn’s firing. With Morris back at the helm after earning the full-time role last offseason, the two coaching figures are teaming back up once again.
The Falcons fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake after an 8-9 season in which the team lost its inside track on the NFC South crown late in the year. The longstanding pass-rush issues again proved to be particularly problematic, with the defense ranking 31st in sacks with 31 on the year.
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Several police vehicles were seen at a northeast Atlanta apartment building on Saturday morning.
Atlanta police were called to Helios off Cheshire Bridge Road NE at around 8 a.m. Atlanta News First crews saw more than five patrol cars at the scene, alongside a Grady Memorial Hospital vehicle.
The details of the incident and investigation are currently unknown.
This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First as we learn more.
Atlanta Hawks (21-19, seventh in the Eastern Conference) vs. Boston Celtics (29-12, second in the Eastern Conference)
Boston; Saturday, 7 p.m. EST
Advertisement
BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Celtics -11; over/under is 235
BOTTOM LINE: Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics host Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks in Eastern Conference action.
The Celtics are 23-8 against Eastern Conference opponents. Boston ranks eighth in the league with 33.9 defensive rebounds per game led by Tatum averaging 8.6.
The Hawks have gone 14-7 against Eastern Conference opponents. Atlanta has a 10-12 record in games decided by 10 points or more.
The Celtics score 117.6 points per game, 1.5 fewer points than the 119.1 the Hawks allow. The Hawks average 13.2 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.3 more makes per game than the Celtics allow.
Advertisement
TOP PERFORMERS: Tatum is averaging 27.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists for the Celtics.
Young is averaging 23.1 points and 11.9 assists for the Hawks.
LAST 10 GAMES: Celtics: 6-4, averaging 111.1 points, 43.5 rebounds, 24.6 assists, 7.4 steals and 6.2 blocks per game while shooting 46.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 104.3 points per game.
Hawks: 6-4, averaging 119.5 points, 43.8 rebounds, 29.9 assists, 10.7 steals and 4.9 blocks per game while shooting 46.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.4 points.
INJURIES: Celtics: None listed.
Advertisement
Hawks: Zaccharie Risacher: out (thigh), Kobe Bufkin: out for season (shoulder), Trae Young: day to day (rib), Larry Nance Jr.: out (hand), Jalen Johnson: day to day (shoulder), Cody Zeller: out (personal), De’Andre Hunter: day to day (foot).
___
The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.