As the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’, Austin, Texas is home to some of the best music venues and bands in the country. From intimate house shows to raucous rock clubs, there’s something for everyone in this bustling music scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover the best venues and bands in Austin’s vibrant music scene.

1. Rock & Indie Music
2. Local Talent
3. Country Music
4. Live Music Venues
5. Jazz & Blues
6. Folk & Acoustic Music
7. Hip-Hop & Rap Music
8. Latin Music

1. Rock & Indie Music

If you’re looking for the best rock, indie, and alternative music in Austin, look no further. Austin is home to some of the most innovative and creative music scenes in the world, and it’s no surprise that the city is known as the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’.

For the perfect mix of rock, indie, and alternative music, head over to The Mohawk. This venue is one of the most popular spots in town, boasting an open-air patio, a full bar, and a variety of different genres. The Mohawk showcases some of the best local and national acts on a regular basis and also hosts a variety of special events.

If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate, head over to Cheer Up Charlie’s. This venue hosts a variety of local and national acts, from up-and-coming indie acts to well-known rock bands. It’s a great spot for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to discover new music.

For a truly unique experience, check out The White Horse. This venue is located in the heart of East Austin and features a variety of live music, from traditional country to experimental rock and everything in between. The venue also hosts a range of special events, from Latin dance nights to punk rock shows.

No matter where you go in Austin, you’ll find the perfect mix of rock, indie, and alternative music. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere or a wild night out, Austin’s music scene has something for everyone. From intimate house shows to bustling rock clubs, discover the best venues and bands in Austin’s vibrant music scene.

2. Local Talent

• Discover the best up-and-coming acts in the city. Austin is home to a wide variety of talented and creative local musicians, making it an ideal place to explore the local music scene. From the classic country sounds of The Derailers to the jazzy beats of The Greyhounds, Austin is full of amazing up-and-coming acts that are worth discovering. Local venues like The White Horse provide a cozy, homey atmosphere that’s perfect for getting to know the local talent. Fans of hip hop can visit venues like The Scoot Inn for regular performances from some of Austin’s best rappers.
• Explore new bands and venues popping up all the time. Austin’s live music scene is constantly evolving, with new bands and venues popping up all the time. The city is particularly known for its indie rock acts, with The Black Angels, The Octopus Project, and The Gourds all hailing from Austin. The city’s small clubs provide the perfect platform for emerging artists to showcase their creative and unique sound. For a more intimate experience, check out some of the city’s house concerts, which can often feature some of the most exciting up-and-coming acts in the city.
• Experience a diverse range of music festivals and venues. The city’s music scene is also incredibly diverse, with venues offering everything from folk to funk. Visitors and locals alike can take advantage of the city’s wide range of music festivals, which are often free and have a rotating lineup of local artists. The Austin City Limits Music Festival is a great way to experience some of the city’s best and brightest talent in one place. Additionally, venues like The Mohawk and Stubb’s offer regular showcases of some of the city’s most talented and innovative local performers.
• Discover amazing local talent in the city. No matter what kind of music you’re into, Austin’s live music scene has something for everyone. From traditional country to innovative hip hop, the city is filled with amazing local talent just waiting to be discovered. Take advantage of the city’s many festivals, venues, and house concerts to get to know the local performers and find the perfect sound for you.

3. Country Music

• Discover the best in country music in Austin. As the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’, Austin, Texas is the perfect spot to explore the country music scene. Visit the historic Broken Spoke dance hall to experience a true honky-tonk atmosphere, or head to the White Horse for some classic western swing. If you’re looking for something more modern, check out the Continental Club for the best in new country music. For a truly unique experience, catch an outdoor concert at the iconic Austin City Limits venue.
• Experience the best live country acts in Austin. When it comes to the best live country acts in Austin, the options are seemingly endless. From up-and-coming singer-songwriters to veteran acts, there’s something for everyone in the city. Catch a show from local favorites like the Derailers, or try something new like the psychedelic country duo, The Cactus Blossoms. Need a break from the honky-tonk? Head to the historic Saxon Pub for some of the best acoustic country music in the city.
• Experience outdoor country music festivals and concerts. If you’re looking for more unique experiences, check out the city’s many festivals and outdoor concerts. From the iconic Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic to the Austin City Limits Music Festival, there’s something for everyone. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, try the Luckenbach Blues & BBQ Festival or the Hill Country Music Festival. These festivals offer a great opportunity to experience some of the best country music acts in the city.
• Discover the best country music spots in Austin. No matter your taste in music, Austin has something for everyone. From intimate house shows to raucous rock clubs, there’s plenty of ways to experience the city’s vibrant music scene. With this guide, you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot to experience the best country music that Austin has to offer.

4. Live Music Venues

• Classic neon sign, 1950’s decor, and The Resentments. The historic Continental Club is a favorite among Austinites, with its classic neon sign and 1950s decor. This venue has earned its spot in Austin’s musical history, hosting acts like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Lucinda Williams and James McMurtry. The Continental Club also has a cozy lounge with a jukebox, pool table and a daily happy hour. Don’t miss the Wednesday night residency with the Resentments, an all-star band featuring local legends.
• Intimate East Austin honky-tonk with dance lessons. If you’re looking for a more intimate live music experience, the White Horse is your spot. This East Austin honky-tonk features a small stage and a dance floor, perfect for getting your two-step on. The White Horse offers a variety of musical acts, from Texas country to indie rock. Take advantage of their free dance lessons on Monday nights, or join the crowd for the weekly honky-tonk jam session.
• Rockin’ good time with outdoor patio and Free Week. The Mohawk is the place to go for a rockin’ good time. This hip music venue is home to some of the best local and touring bands. There’s also plenty of space to hang out on the outdoor patio. The Mohawk also hosts a variety of events, including movie screenings, comedy shows and art exhibitions. Don’t miss their ‘Free Week’ showcase of local bands each January.
• Moody Theater for ACL Live and Music Festival. For an unforgettable live music experience, check out the Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. This concert hall is the home of the long-running music television program, Austin City Limits. From classic rock to country and blues, ACL Live regularly hosts some of the biggest names in music. Don’t miss the ‘Austin City Limits Music Festival’, a two-weekend event featuring over 140 bands in Zilker Park.
• Unique live music, craft beers and happy hour. The Parish is the place to go for a unique live music experience. This venue hosts a variety of musical acts, from local indie bands to international DJs. The Parish also offers a wide selection of craft beers, gourmet tacos and other delicious fare. Stop by during the week for their happy hour specials and eclectic musical lineups.

5. Jazz & Blues

When it comes to jazz and blues music in Austin, there’s a plethora of venues to explore and bands to discover. From hip lounges to classic dives, the city has a wide selection of spots to enjoy a night out. Take a stroll down 6th Street for a wide variety of venues, including The Mohawk, where you can catch some of the best jazz and blues bands in the city. The Continental Club is another great spot to check out, featuring some of the best blues music Austin has to offer. If you want to experience some of the city’s unique jazz music, head to The Elephant Room, which has been home to some of the most talented jazz musicians in the world.

When it comes to local acts, Austin has some of the best jazz and blues musicians in the country. Notable acts include Jimmie Vaughan, who has been a staple in the city’s music scene since the 70s, and Carolyn Wonderland, who is known for her fiery guitar solos. The city is also home to several jazz and blues festivals, such as the Austin Jazz Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich history of jazz music.

No matter what kind of jazz or blues you’re looking for, Austin is the place to go. With its many venues and talented bands, the city offers something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a great night out on the town, be sure to check out some of the best jazz and blues venues in Austin.

6. Folk & Acoustic Music

Folk and acoustic music has a special place in Austin’s live music scene. From the blues to country and beyond, you’ll find venues and bands throughout the city offering a variety of acoustic music. The White Horse is a popular spot for local country and Americana, while The Saxon Pub specializes in blues, roots rock and folk. The Continental Club is the place to go for classic honky-tonk music and is a favorite of both locals and visitors.

If you’re looking for a more intimate venue, there are plenty of house shows around town as well. Keep an eye out for flyers or check out one of the city’s many music calendars to find out when and where the house shows are happening.

When it comes to acoustic music, Austin has a variety of talented bands to check out. The Sweet Nothings are a folk-rock band with a unique sound, while The Lost Pines bring a soulful blend of folk, blues and rock to the stage. The Wasson Twins offer a mix of country and Americana, while The Gents bring a classic country vibe to their shows.

The best way to get to know the acoustic and folk music scene in Austin is to hit the streets and explore. You’ll find something special in every venue and every band, so don’t be afraid to branch out and explore something new. With a little exploration, you’ll soon be a part of the vibrant acoustic music scene in Austin.

7. Hip-Hop & Rap Music

If you’re looking for the best hip-hop and rap music in Austin, then you’ve come to the right place! Austin is home to a thriving rap and hip-hop scene, with some of the hottest venues and artists from around the world. From the historic Mohawk to the beloved Empire Control Room, there’s something for every fan of hip-hop and rap music.

For those looking for a real taste of Austin’s hip-hop and rap scene, check out the monthly ‘Hot Jamz’ showcase at Empire Control Room. It features some of the city’s best up-and-coming artists, as well as a few established acts. You can find some of the best talent in the city at Hot Jamz, from rap and hip-hop artists to spoken word poets and beatmakers.

The Mohawk is another great venue for hip-hop and rap fans. It has been an Austin staple for many years and hosts a variety of live music events throughout the year. The legendary club has seen some of the biggest names in rap and hip-hop, including the likes of Lil Wayne, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar.

When it comes to local hip-hop and rap artists, there are a few names that you should know. Chairo, a local rapper from Austin, has been making waves in the city with his unique sound and lyrics. His debut album, ‘The Urban Myth’, was released in 2020 and is already gaining attention from fans and critics alike. Austin’s own A-Town Don is another up-and-coming rapper who has been making a name for himself in the city. His latest album, ‘Tales from the Southside’, was released in 2021 and has been praised for its creative production and powerful lyrics.

Whether you’re a seasoned hip-hop and rap fan or just getting started, Austin is the place to be. With some of the best venues and artists in the world, you won’t be disappointed. So come explore the city’s vibrant music scene and find something new and exciting!

8. Latin Music

• Discover Austin’s Latin music scene with the best venues and bands. Austin’s Latin music scene is a vibrant and exciting part of the city’s music culture. From long-standing venues like La Zona Rosa to newer music halls like Empire Control Room & Garage, there’s something for everyone. Some of the best Latin bands in the area are Las Nubes, La Santa Cecilia, and Grupo Fantasma, each with its own unique sound and style. If you’re looking for something different and exciting, Austin’s Latin music scene is the perfect place to start.
• Visit La Zona Rosa for Latin music’s biggest names. If you’re looking to catch an awesome Latin show, one of the best places to start is at La Zona Rosa. With a long history of hosting big names in the Latin music industry and a wide range of genres, La Zona Rosa has something for everyone. Las Nubes, La Santa Cecilia, and Grupo Fantasma are all regulars on the stage, and their shows always offer something special. Make sure to check out the calendar to see who’s playing next!
• Empire Control Room & Garage for a variety of Latin music. Empire Control Room & Garage is another great spot to catch a Latin show. This venue is known for its eclectic mix of music, and some of the best Latin acts in Austin have played here. Whether you’re looking for cumbia, salsa, or merengue, Empire Control Room & Garage is the perfect spot to find it. Las Nubes, La Santa Cecilia, and Grupo Fantasma all make regular appearances, so make sure to check out their sets if you get the chance.
• Experience Latin music up close at Austin’s house shows. If you’re looking for a more intimate Latin music experience, you should check out the house shows in Austin. There are many venues that offer up Latin music on a smaller scale, and the atmosphere is always electric. With smaller crowds and more intimate settings, these shows offer a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the best Latin acts in the city. Las Nubes, La Santa Cecilia, and Grupo Fantasma are all regulars, so keep an eye out for their shows.