Underground Sounds: Where Memphis Music Is Happening Now
These venues don’t just host shows, they nurture Memphis’s music scene night after night.
These venues don’t just host shows, they nurture Memphis’s music scene night after night.
I saw a reel the other day that inspired this post and reminded me just how real and raw Memphis’s local music scene is. We’ve got underground gems and more established spots that continue to uplift the city’s next big stars.
What does it mean to be on this list? These venues are consistently booking original local talent, sometimes nightly, and helping keep Memphis music alive and well.
Lamplighter Lounge
One of my favorite bars in the city, Lamplighter is where truly everyone is welcome and celebrated. You can hang out in the gritty, cozy bar side filled with endless knickknacks or pop into the back venue space for a show. The music sometimes leans punk and rock, but all genres are welcome here. It's more than just a music venue. It’s a creative hub. Think open mics, writer’s nights, drag brunches, and even burlesque karaoke (which we randomly stumbled into once and still talk about).
Follow Lamplighter's Instagram for new show updates.
Memphis Flyer recently wrote a great write up recently about them that's worth a read.
Address: 1702 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Havenhaus
In true underground spirit, Havenhaus got its start in an actual house. Since then, it’s grown into a legit DIY venue in the old The 5 Spot location on South Main, right next to Earnestine & Hazel’s. Yes, that means you can grab a soul burger post-show. Expect punk shows, but also a wide range of genres like hip-hop, electronic, folk, country, and beyond. They've even hosted a wrestling match. If you went in the early days, you’ll be glad to know they now have air conditioning.
Follow Havenhaus' Instagram for upcoming shows.
Action News 5 did a feature on Havenhaus and you should watch to learn more.
Address: 84 GE Patterson Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
B-SIDE Memphis
Tucked inside the same building as Minglewood Hall, B-SIDE is all about supporting local talent. Their calendar is packed with shows, and bands like Devil Train pop up regularly. It’s not strictly local but the vibe is always intimate and energetic. Plus, that iconic blue curtain and glowing neon sign? Pure Memphis.
Check out their website for the monthly lineup of shows.
Address: 1553 Madison Ave Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38104
Hi Tone Café
This long-running venue is jam-packed with shows nearly every night of the week. With two performance spaces, 21+ downstairs and an all-ages room upstairs, there’s something happening constantly. Hi Tone books everything from rock to rap, DJs to jazz, plus markets, comedy nights, and more. With a big mix of local talent and touring acts, it’s a staple for a reason.
Check out their stacked calendar.
Address: 282-284 N Cleveland St, Memphis, TN 38104
Bar DKDC
Tucked into the heart of Cooper Young, Bar DKDC has one of the coolest, most intimate vibes in town. Whether you're going for a cocktail or a late-night set, you'll catch DJs and live musicians on a regular basis. Their monthly music calendars are stacked with local talent, and the space always brings the energy.
Here's their calendar of events for the month.
Address: 964 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104
Growlers
While Growlers is currently in a bit of a transition phase, it has long been a reliable spot for catching local artists alongside national touring acts. The calendar may be a little light right now, but don’t count them out. This Midtown venue has the bones and the sound to stay in the mix.
Address: 1911 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
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