LA Isn’t Dead: The Hottest Live Music Spots Right Now
By Arya Desai
Los Angeles Isn’t Dead
Hey! I’m Arya, a native Angeleno who refuses to believe that her City is, as they would say, on the decline since the pink-wall, sepia filter, glory days of 2014. Though infamous traffic divides LA’s Westside and Eastside, and the increased presence of social media influencers has gentrified what seems to be every trendy, Instagrammable corner of the City, I am determined to prove that LA is NOT DEAD by finding the real spots where LA’s culture and community are alive and well.
To start off this series, I’ve scouted out some of my favorite places to hear live music for little to no cost (though I always encourage you to support artists in any way that you can if there is an option at said events or after). Live music is and always will be one of my favorite things to experience, whether it's a cheeky solo date or night out with my girlfriends, where better to seek it out than in Los Angeles—a city known for its rich contributions to the world of music.
So the next time you find yourself free on a weekend evening, take out your headphones and opt for a live show.
Andy’s
One of LA’s hottest going-out spots is, without a doubt, Andy’s WeHo. This unique jazz speakeasy is the recent passion project of Grammy-award-winning artist Anderson Paak.
Inspired by Paak’s signature 70s style, Andy’s feels like a trip to the past. Specifically, a much cooler 70s Los Angeles, complete with patent leather love seats, moody lighting, and of course…many, many disco balls. But the real star of the show is Andy’s constant lineup of impressive bands and performers.
From Wednesday until Sunday, Andy’s is the perfect, low-commitment venue for those on the lookout for a free show. If you’re craving a wilder night, show up with your friends around 10 p.m. when the main band begins their set, and there is a high chance you’ll be on the dance floor for hours.
Personally, I’ve spent many a night at Paak’s speakeasy, and a quick drink can easily turn into hours once the music begins. From a nightcap after a long day to a night out with the girls, Andy’s is the kind of venue you have to peel yourself off of.
The Dresden
This one is an oldie, but a goodie.
Founded in 1954, The Dresden is a Los Angeles staple in terms of live music. Its rich history is reflected in a vintage 50s-inspired design, along with posters from films shot on location. In fact, many film lovers may recognize it from the classics like Swingers.
But long before it served as a hot spot for a young Jon Favreau and Vince Vaughn, The Dresden was a well-known jazz lounge.
Unlike Andy’s, The Dresden usually has a calmer vibe: aka the perfect spot for a date night, intimate dinner, or casual catch-up with friends. On occasional nights, I have even indulged in a solo night to grab a snack, drink, and enjoy the live music. From Wednesday to Sunday, The Dresden features a diverse program of performances, from classic crooners to instrumental quartets.
Slow Jamz
Slow Jamz events may often be ticketed, but their upfront financial cost is well worth the money. The traveling series of live performances can be found across Los Angeles, but usually holds sold-out events in its downtown home: Slow Jamz Gallery.
For those seeking a younger scene, Slow Jamz is one of the best live music series, with fresh and exciting new faces in music often taking the stage.
Inside its warehouse-like satellite location is an immersive experience complete with moody ambient lighting, an intimate stage setup, and collections of vintage records and music regalia adorning the walls.
Part of this venue’s charm is its array of themed music nights. For example, date night can look like a night seeing “Covers for Lovers,” with tributes to Erykah Badu, Cleo Sol, and the like. Emerging artists are introduced at their “Lost & Found” series, and are a great way to find your new favorite artist to add to that playlist.
We Found New Music
If you are in a desperate search to freshen up your music taste, head to one of the weekly “We Found New Music” events held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at West Hollywood’s Hotel Ziggy and Bar Lubitsch. This one is a free RSVP and can be done day-of–perfect for those on the lookout for a last-minute, low-cost show.
This unique series features a diverse set of musicians, designed as a way to connect artists with the community. Friends, loved ones, and alike can be seen cheering on performers from the crowd, and an equal number of those who are popping in to see someone entirely new take the stage.
Genre is a mixed bag due to the distinctive style of each artist and band, keeping the energy fresh at We Found New Music events. Between cocktail sips and social chatter, attendees are encouraged to give full attention to each performer when each new set begins.
LACMA Jazz Nights
Believe it or not, between April and November, it's possible to see your favorite Monet painting and attend a live jazz show within steps of each other.
LACMA jazz nights are some of my favorite, free, live music events in Los Angeles, and feature jazz and instrumental ensembles every Friday evening with decorated, hand-picked musicians (aka, access to world-class musicians without having to empty your pockets).
Grab a seat in front of the stage or find a comfy spot on the Museum’s sprawling front lawns. Food and drink are allowed, so this is a great option for a date night or a social outing with friends and family. From the music to the warm glow of LACMA’s famous urban light exhibit, LACMA jazz nights are a serene way to spend an evening in the warmer months.
The World Stage
I would be remiss to leave out this last venue, which is perhaps one of the most influential to Los Angeles’s live music and arts culture. Nestled in the heart of Leimert Park is “The World Stage,” a famous educational/ performance venue that was founded by jazz drummer, Billy Higgins, and poet, Kamau Daáood in 1989.
With seating for 100, The World Stage has a surprisingly intimate feel. Audiences sit closely to its simple platform stage, illuminated by moody lights.
Each week, there is a diverse program of live music, from West African Congo Rhythms to public rehearsals of the World Stage Big Band. This venue blurs the lines between performance and the act of playing itself: this is an exploration of music, not merely a showcase.
Though tickets are free, a small donation is requested to keep supporting the artists of The World Stage.
