Music speaks to our soul and allows us to unwind after a long day of chatter. Salem, MA has a bustling arts community, a part of which comes in the form of performing arts and live music. No matter what your playlist preferences are, you are sure to find the right musical fit for a night out filled with tunes and tasty treats. There truly is something for everyone, whether it’s throwback emo metal jams with Koto Underground Music and Events or soft Acoustic Sundays at Sea Level Oyster Bar. Salem, MA is your next destination for live music and entertainment.
House and Harmonies:
A DJ set with some rhythmic bass is a great way to dance your way through the workweek. If you are looking to hype yourself up to some upbeat house dance music there are a few options to choose from around town. Village Tavern has its weekly DJ sets on Thursdays and Fridays from 9 pm to 10:30 pm. Stop in for some delicious food and great beer on tap while you dance your way into the weekend. DJ sets change every week with new and innovative beats to groove to.
Image by Village Tavern
Looking for a place with welcoming staff, dance music, and Drag Race? Bit Bar is the place to be! Each Friday night at 8 pm watch the premiere of Drag Race with live performances by local Drag Queens. Dance along to the music and enjoy classic game-themed food and beverages. The upbeat tunes are sure to get you on your feet and dancing along with the drag race contestants. Will you be able to hold your own, or will you have to sashay away?
Image by Bit Bar Salem
Sushi and Underground Music is the name of the game at Koto Underground Music and Events. Each Thursday through Sunday live music fills the Koto space with heavy metal, DJ sets, throwback goth nights, or retro-themed karaoke. Enjoy freshly prepared sushi while diving into the many themed musical nights that Koto Underground hosts.
Grass Roots Grooves
If you’re looking to support some grass root grooves by local musicians or show off your musical prowess Gulu Gulu Cafe has its stage set for you! Each Thursday night the bohemian outpost hosts an open mic shindig from 7 pm to 10 pm. Any and every type of genre is welcome. Sing, dance, hum, or just sway along to the upbeat tunes while enjoying the warm and cozy atmosphere. Sign-ups start each Thursday at 6:30 pm for the evening, and whether it’s your first or 500th time on the Gulu Gulu stage the crowd will greet you with open arms.
Image by Gulu Gulu Cafe
Ginger Cajun also hosts live Karaoke each Friday night at their restaurant from 8 pm to 11 pm. This is the perfect way to impress your friends with a rendition Cher’s classic Believe. Treat yourself to a delicious custom-made house cocktails, and enjoy an array of fusion appetizers while singing your heart out to a selection of classic tunes.
Maybe you aren’t looking to be the star of the show, and that’s fine! East Regiment Beer Co. hosts Live Music each Friday night at their taproom where they highlight local bands and artists from around the North Shore. Each Friday from 6 pm to 9 pm the East Regiment taproom transforms into a live music venue where you can enjoy some delicious locally brewed beverages. Kick back and take in the tunes, and who knows maybe you’ll discover your new favorite band!
Image by East Regiment Beer Co.
Every Thursday from 6pm to 9pm the Hawthorne Hotel in their Nathaniel’s space hosts a rotation of live performers. Enjoy a full menu at Nathaniel’s Restaurant and craft made cocktails at their bespoke bar. Listen to a variety of tunes from Spanish guitar, classical piano, and violin just to name few. The cozy restaurant is a great place to spend a chilly spring night while listening to local artists.
Waterfront Wonders
American Flatbread here in Salem, MA is a great place to go if you want to listen to live music with friends and bowl a few rounds. Take in the spectacular rotation of bands that stop by the American Flatbread space on Thursday nights. Enjoy a bit of friendly competition with loved ones while taking in their live musical acts. Fresh clay oven pizza is hand-made by their skillful chefs on a nightly basis. In the warmer season, guests can take a walk by the river walk next to the South River that abuts the American Flatbread space. Have a wonderful night out with music, games, and gorgeous sunsets on the South River.
Image by American Flatbread
If you want to continue the waterfront views and enjoy the sweet sounds of live music, Acoustic Sundays at Sea Level Oyster Bar is a great place to stop into. Enjoy a classic cup of New England clam chowder with sweeping views of the Salem Harbor. Let the soothing sounds sweep you away while you kick back and prepare yourself mentally for the upcoming week. Stop by Sea Level from 1 pm to 4 pm, Sundays, for some sweet brunch treats, craft-made cocktails, and some soothing acoustic toons.
Image by Sea Level Oyster Bar
For more live event here in Salem, MA check out our events CALENDAR
Tags: Acoustic, DJ, Live Music
