Live Music

In 2007, Brisbane has been named among the world's music hotspots by Billboard music magazine, a leading US magazine. However, if you ask the locals, they will tell you they’ve always known Brisbane was producing some of the greatest artists. You just need to stroll along the streets of the Valley, New Farm, Riverside or Milton to realise that Brisbane has a passion for music.

The city has a long legacy of successful international acts, from the legendary Bee Gees in the 60’s to Savage Garden in the 90’s, and more recently, successful acts such as Powderfinger, the Veronicas and solo singing sensation, Pete Murray. Brisbane’s music has a great past, great present, and a great future expected with up-and-coming talent from Andrew Morris, Kate Miller-Heidke, Kate Bradley, the Butterfly Effect and Butterfingers.

Here you have plenty to enjoy. Grab a copy of the City News, and find out what's on around town in the Gig Guide. You can find heaps of pubs, bars and clubs featuring live music anywhere, but the following places are dedicated live music venues and are real little beauties:

The Troubadour is a music venue situated in the heart of Brisbane's creative hub. With a capacity of 200, it offers a comfortable relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a vast array of quality sonic pleasures for musicians and music lovers alike. The Troubadour also plays host to a wide range of art and multimedia productions as well as screening film and visual presentations.

The Arena is the premier venue for high-profile Australian and International acts to play in Fortitude Valley. The list of amazing bands to grace The Arena’s stage is endless. With a balcony overlooking the main floor and capable of handling massive crowds, The Arena is the place to see the hottest talent from all around the world in all fields of musical endeavour.

The Zoo is a live music venue/nightclub that hosts a wide spectrum of styles. In any week you could see anything from beats, hip hop, jazz, rock, and pop to acoustic, folk, dub and reggae.

Built in 1917 and restored in Art Deco style, this elegant, fully licensed theatre has state-of-the-art technical features and top-of-the-range facilities. The Tivoli hosts the hottest local and touring acts.

For Jazz purists, Brisbane Jazz Club is a must. Featuring all styles of live jazz ranging from '60s inspired quintets, traditional jazz outfits, and 20-piece big bands, the club welcome young and old, families and singles, those new to jazz and those who have loved jazz for a lifetime. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of Brisbane's 'best kept secrets’ with a million-dollar view overlooking the Brisbane River.