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» Best Live Music Los Angeles
The world’s coolest cities have live music scenes that come in all shapes and sizes. The common denominator is that they deliver an outstanding evening of great music—be it blues, Latin, soul, funk, jazz, rock, indie-pop, or something in between. These are our hands-down favorites.
Best Live Music in....
Best Live Music
Los Angeles
Hollywood Bowl 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323-850-2000 hollywoodbowl.com
The Draw: If there’s one thing you must do in LA, it’s checking out this world-famous amphitheatre. The music (be it the resident orchestra or Radiohead) is just one component to an unforgettable experience under the stars. The Scene: Soak up everything there is to love about LA at this iconic concert venue in the heart of Hollywood. The acoustics are awesome and amenities even better. The box seats offer more space and comfort, but the cheaper “super” seats and benches have clear sightlines and offer a more party atmosphere. Hot Tip: Avoid the stacked parking by using public transportation. A $3 shuttle from Hollywood and Highland starts two hours before concert time. The Park & Ride program has 14 locations and the $5 roundtrip tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.
Troubadour 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310-276-6168 troubadour.com
The Draw: This storied WeHo rock ’n’ roll shrine deserves its own VH1 “Behind the Music” documentary. An old-school ethos stresses guitar-crunching tunes, and welcomes music fans of all ages. The Scene: While everything in the nearby area has undergone a stylish “Queer Eye” makeover, this historic, hard-rocking jam joint rolls into a new ear-splitting era. It features an in-your-face stage, a perched VIP balcony, and a pair of beat-up bars plastered with 8x10s of famous past performers. Hot Tip: Be on the lookout for surprise shows from elite groups such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who drop in to tune up before heading out on tour. Monday night’s local band showcases are free, but are a hit-or-miss affair.
The Draw: The likes of The Rolling Stones, Radiohead, and Thievery Corporation have graced the stage at this grandiose 1930s-era concert hall. The Scene: A first-rate facelift brings this L.A. landmark into the modern age without ruining its classic look. The breathtaking Art Deco interior, superior sound system, A-list talent, and a classy clientele make it one of the best live music venues on the West Coast. Hot Tip: The level in front of the stage is limited to the first 250 people (the venue holds 2,300), so arrive early and get a bracelet that allows you to go in and out of this enclave.
