8 Cities with Underrated Music Scenes
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
Some cities carry nicknames that nod to their impressive musical roots, like Nashville’s Music City or New York City’s the Big Apple (a nod to jazz musicians). But, famed musicians can hail from all around the country, and many smaller towns have massively impressive roots in music that may not be widely known.
From iconic recording studios to birth and resting places for musical innovators, check out these eight eight cities with underrated music scenes.
Muscle Shoals, Alabama
This north Alabama city may be home to less than 20,000 residents, but world-renowned artists flock to its iconic trio of recording studios–FAME, Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, and Cypress Moon Studios. The studios have welcomed some of history’s most beloved artists like Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Paul Simon.
Memphis, Tennessee
The “Home of the Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll” surely deserves a spot on the list. Memphis’ iconic Beale Street welcomed artists like Louis Armstrong, Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and more in the early-to-mid-1900s. Memphis is also home to Elvis Presley’s nearly 14-acre estate, Graceland.
Bristol, Virginia/Tennessee
This Virginia-meets-Tennessee city is the “Birthplace of Country Music,” because the genre boomed after the Carter Family and Jimmy Rodgers first recorded music there in 1927. Today, visitors can explore country music’s history in its entirety at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and during the three-day Bristol Rhythm & Roots Festival each September.
Tupelo, Mississippi
Before Elvis Presley made his way to Memphis, he called Tupelo, Mississippi, home. The King himself was born in a two bedroom house that’s now a museum, and received his first guitar from local retailer—Tupelo Hardware Company. The rest is history.
Honolulu, Hawai'i
Many flock to Hawai'i for the stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes, but the city of Honolulu is also known for producing some of music's biggest legends: Bruno Mars, Bette Midler, Yvonne Elliman, and Jack Johnson to name a few. The ukulele often comprises the soundtrack for a visit to the Aloha State.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is a rock ‘n roll town with plenty of venues to keep music lovers entertained, from indie clubs like the Beachland Ballroom to large venues like the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. Before the show, make a stop at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to see exhibits featuring artists like Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, and Taylor Swift.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans has many claims to fame, from its incredible Creole cuisine to its stunning architecture and promises of a nonstop good time. But, jazz is the true heartbeat of the city that comes alive daily (and nightly) all across the city, both on its streets and in its iconic venues, many of which are on the famous Frenchman Street. Make plans to visit in February during Mardi Gras or in April during Jazz Fest for an extra soulful experience.
Omaha, Nebraska
When it’s not hosting the College World Series each summer, Omaha embraces its indie music scene. Catch a show at any of the city’s iconic venues, from the Sokol Auditorium and Underground to a collection of quirky venues in the Benson neighborhood.
You Might Also Like
