Where to Find the Best Live Music in Bend and Austin?

For music lovers, finding the best live music scenes is key to enjoying the vibrant culture of a city. Bend, Oregon, and Austin, Texas, are two locations in the United States with thriving live music scenes. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something to catch your ear in these cities! In this article, we explore the best live music venues, genres, and how independent artists can take advantage of the local music industry.

Live Music in Bend, Oregon

Known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, Bend, Oregon, also boasts a bustling live music scene. The city offers a diverse range of musical genres and venues that cater to both local and visiting artists. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy live music in Bend:

The Tower Theatre

The Tower Theatre is a historic venue located in downtown Bend. It has a capacity of around 460 seats, making it an intimate space to enjoy performances ranging from local bands to nationally recognized acts. The theater’s rich history and excellent acoustics make it a favorite among music enthusiasts.

Les Schwab Amphitheater

This outdoor venue is situated along the Deschutes River and can accommodate up to 8,000 people. Les Schwab Amphitheater is known for hosting large-scale concerts, including performances by famous bands and artists. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy live music during the summer months while taking in the picturesque views of Bend’s natural surroundings.

Volcanic Theatre Pub

An eclectic venue in Bend, the Volcanic Theatre Pub offers a relaxed atmosphere where locals can enjoy a wide variety of live music, from indie rock to jazz. The venue doubles as a theatre and a pub, providing a unique combination of entertainment and socializing.

McMenamins Old St. Francis School

This location is more than just a live music venue. McMenamins Old St. Francis School is a historic schoolhouse converted into a hotel, brewery, restaurant, and concert venue. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink before catching live performances in the intimate Father Luke's Room.

Live Music in Austin, Texas

Often referred to as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin, Texas, is renowned for its incredible music scene. With a seemingly endless list of venues and events, Austin offers something for every music lover. Here are some of the top spots to experience live music in Austin:

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q is a legendary venue in Austin, combining delicious barbecue with outstanding live music. The outdoor amphitheater can hold around 2,000 people and features a range of genres, from rock to blues, making it a must-visit spot for music enthusiasts.

Mohawk

Situated on Red River Street, Mohawk is a beloved venue known for its friendly atmosphere and top-notch live performances. With both indoor and outdoor stages, Mohawk hosts a variety of genres, including indie rock, metal, and hip-hop. It's an essential destination for anyone exploring Austin’s live music scene.

Antone’s

Antone’s has a rich history as one of Austin’s premier blues clubs. Since opening in 1975, Antone’s has hosted some of the biggest names in blues music. Today, it continues to be a favorite among blues aficionados and regularly features both legendary artists and up-and-coming talent.

The Continental Club

Located on South Congress Avenue, The Continental Club is an iconic venue that has been entertaining live music fans since 1955. Known for its intimate setting and fantastic lineup of musicians, The Continental Club is famous for its rock, blues, and singer-songwriter performances. Music enthusiasts will not want to miss this historic venue.

Saxon Pub

The Saxon Pub is a cozy venue known for its warm atmosphere and stellar live music. It regularly features a combination of well-known artists and local favorites. Whether you're into country, rock, or singer-songwriter genres, The Saxon Pub offers an intimate setting to enjoy live music.

How Independent Artists Can Benefit from Bend and Austin’s Music Scenes

For independent artists, getting noticed in a competitive music industry can be daunting. However, both Bend and Austin offer ample opportunities for musicians looking to make their mark. Here are some tips for artists aiming to break into these vibrant music scenes:

Utilize Local Resources

Both cities have various resources available to help musicians, such as local music organizations, open mic nights, and workshops. Engaging with the local music community will help artists build connections and gain valuable exposure.

Leverage Social Media and Digital Platforms

Platforms like TikTok and SoundOn are powerful tools for independent artists to reach new audiences and get their music heard. By creating engaging content and sharing it on these platforms, musicians can attract attention from both fans and industry professionals.

Network with Other Musicians

Building relationships with fellow musicians is crucial for any artist. By collaborating on projects or supporting each other's shows, artists can increase their visibility and gain access to new opportunities.

Pitch Your Music to Curators

Getting your songs featured on curated playlists is an excellent way to increase your streams and attract more fans. Platforms like SoundOn offer global distribution services that can help artists pitch their music to digital streaming platforms (DSPs) and get noticed by curators.

Play Live Performances

There’s no substitute for live music. Performing at local venues, festivals, and events helps artists build a local fan base and gain valuable performance experience. Regular live performances can also lead to more significant booking opportunities and increased visibility.

In conclusion, Bend, Oregon, and Austin, Texas, are two cities with vibrant live music scenes that offer plenty of opportunities for music lovers and independent artists alike. Whether you're looking to enjoy live performances or get your music noticed, these cities provide a treasure trove of musical experiences.

For aspiring musicians, platforms like SoundOn offer fantastic tools for promoting and distributing music digitally, helping you build a sustainable career in the industry. So, why wait? Dive into the live music scenes of Bend and Austin and let your musical journey begin!