A Guide to Baltimore’s Music Scene

Baltimore has a rich and diverse music scene, with something to offer everyone. From nationally known acts to local up-and-comers, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Venues

Baltimore has various music venues, from large concert halls to intimate clubs. Some of the most popular venues include:

• The Anthem: The Anthem is a large concert hall that hosts a variety of national and international touring acts.
• Rams Head Live!: Rams Head Live! is another large concert hall that hosts a variety of touring acts, as well as local and regional bands.
• Soundstage: Soundstage is a smaller concert venue that hosts a variety of touring and local acts, as well as comedy shows and other events.
• The Ottobar: The Ottobar is a famous club that hosts a variety of local and regional bands, DJs, and electronic music artists.
• Metro Gallery: Metro Gallery is a small club that hosts a variety of local and regional bands and experimental and avant-garde music artists.

Genres

Baltimore’s music scene is diverse, with bands playing everything from rock and pop to jazz and hip-hop. Some of the most popular genres in Baltimore include:

• Rock: Baltimore has a long and storied history of rock music, dating back to the early days of punk rock. Some of the most notable Baltimore rock bands include The Cramps, Bad Brains, and Mind Funk. The Baltimore rock scene is thriving today, with bands like Turnstile, Portrayal of Guilt, and Wye Oak making waves nationwide.
• Pop: Baltimore has also produced some of the biggest names in pop music, including Billie Holiday, Frank Zappa, and John Waters. Today, the Baltimore pop scene is home to talented artists, including Beach House, Future Islands, and Dan Deacon.
• Jazz: Baltimore has a rich jazz history and is still home to a vibrant jazz scene today. Some of the most notable Baltimore jazz musicians include Eubie Blake, Cab Calloway, and Billie Holiday. Today, the Baltimore jazz scene is home to talented musicians, including Todd Marcus, Tim Green, and Peter Martin.
• Hip-hop: Baltimore’s hip-hop scene is one of the most vibrant in the country. Some of the most notable Baltimore hip-hop artists include Cordae, IDK, and JPEGMAFIA. Today, the Baltimore hip-hop scene is home to talented artists, including Baby Tate, Dreezy, and TT The Artist.

Festivals

Baltimore also hosts several music festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals include:

• Moonrise Festival: Moonrise Festival is a two-day electronic music festival every August. The festival features a variety of nationally known and international DJs and producers.
• Baltimore Psych Fest: Baltimore Psych Fest is a three-day psychedelic rock festival every September. The festival features a variety of psychedelic rock bands from all over the world.
• Mobtown Beatdown: Mobtown Beatdown is a one-day punk rock and metal festival every October. The festival features a variety of punk rock and metal bands from all over the United States.

Tips for Attending Music Shows in Baltimore

Here are a few tips for attending music shows in Baltimore:

• Purchase your tickets in advance: This is especially important for popular shows and festivals.
• Dress comfortably: You don’t need to dress up for a music show, but you should dress comfortably.
• Arrive early: This will give you time to find your spot and settle before the show starts.
• Be respectful of the performers and other audience members: Avoid talking or making noise during the show.

Conclusion

Baltimore has a vibrant and diverse music scene with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a rock, pop, jazz, hip-hop, or electronic music fan, you’re sure to find something you like in Baltimore.