In this series of op-eds, I will share my experience with different aspects of the local music scene, ranging from venues to artists to music stores. Use these as a guide to getting more involved with intimate shows and supporting local ATL artists and businesses.
Atlanta is home to many huge arenas and stadiums that host some of the biggest names in the music industry. These major artists take over the city for a day with a craze of fans waiting to witness them on the stage (or big screen). While these major shows are thrilling, they can be pricey, and sometimes, the large crowd can be overwhelming. If you are ever looking for a more laid-back experience, the local scene is where it’s at. Smaller venues and more intimate shows can be cheaper and sometimes more fun than a huge event like one at State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The first concert I ever attended when I was younger was at Infinite Energy Arena in Duluth in 2016. Of course, when I was nine, the big stage amazed me, but as I’ve gotten older, I have more appreciation for small shows. Don’t get me wrong, I still have fun attending bigger shows because some of my favorite artists are too popular for a small venue. One thing that keeps people away from small venues is the artists that play there, but you would be surprised how many big names appear on small stages. Some recognizable artists I have seen in small places are Beabadoobee, Suki Waterhouse, Laufey, Cigarettes After Sex, Faye Webster, and many more. These artists have millions of listeners yet can still be heard in intimate spaces.
A year or two ago, I started to go to shows at local venues, and I began to grow a deep appreciation for the vibe. If you are anything like me and love to be front and center at a show, many Atlanta venues can offer that, no matter where you stand. One of my favorite venues for this type of experience is Terminal West.
Getting into local venues is not as difficult as it may seem. Nowadays, almost every venue has its own website where you can find upcoming events. Finding shows at bars or clubs might be more difficult, but if you can find the right connections, it becomes a piece of cake. Additionally, any ticket provider will display upcoming shows at various connected venues all in one place.
For those younger (below 18), many venues are open to all ages, such as The Masquerade, Variety Playhouse, the Eastern, Aisle 5, The Loft, etc. That being said, it all depends on the show. 529 is one of the few venues, almost strictly 18 or 21+, because it is technically a bar.
While all of these venues are incredible spaces that offer positive vibes and fun times, my favorites are the holes in the wall. One is The Innerspace. Located almost across the street from its bigger counterpart for alternative and punk music, the Masquerade, Innerspace is a small gallery in Underground Atlanta that hosts many local Atlanta musicians. The venue is a frequent home for punk and alternative music but has featured some hip-hop and indie music. I have discovered many artists going to spontaneous shows here and have always ended up having fun. Innerspace is always good for a spontaneous concert because entry is $20 or below.
All in all, finding local venues is an easy task, and it is one step toward getting involved with local music. Small venues offer chill vibes and fun, intimate experiences for all ages at typically cheap prices. While a good first experience at an unfamiliar venue would be with an artist you enjoy, don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and discover some new music.
To learn more about some of my favorite local venues, go read my other op-ed!
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