Concerts and live music are staple events in most University students’ lives. While The Varsity Theatre at the North Gates of campus and The Spanish Moon on Highland Road are both well-established venues, there are many hidden gems tucked around the Capital City that remain relatively under the radar. The following spots all support local artists and offer nice venues to catch a live show locally.
Atomic Pop Shop
Walking into the bright blue Atomic Pop Shop on Government Street, the smell of old records and the sight of owner Kerry Beary’s bright pops of art greets customers at the door.
The shop is already a Baton Rouge hotspot with its eccentric interior and stacks of reasonably-priced vinyl, but many may not know that the shop houses a backroom perfect for catching a local band.
As long as the shop has been open, shows have been played in the store, but it was not until June 2015 that the full transition into a nighttime live music venue took place.
“We book anybody looking to play, but we also put an emphasis on promoting new and younger artists, like high school age bands, that don’t always have access to play other local venues,” booking agent Matthew Polito said. “By being an all-ages venue, we like to give local artists support and young talent a place to play.”
The back of the store feels like a friend’s welcoming house party, with colorful string lights and a makeshift stage. The space has hosted a variety of acts, from listening parties to local bands like Wumbo, Nice Dog, Ship of Fools and Quarx. The Pop Shop’s venue is great for supporting local acts in an intimate setting.
On Sept. 22, JC Cornelius will present Purple Lotus, which features nine different artists in a local hip hop showcase. All future shows are posted regularly to The Atomic Pop Shop’s Facebook page.
Mid City Ballroom
One of the newest additions to the heart of Baton Rouge is the Mid City Ballroom. Founded by James Fogle and Steve Levine, the duo converted an old church and social hall into a live music venue and store, respectively. Their goal is to bring together elements of music, art and culture under one roof.
“[The Mid City Ballroom] is a nice space and size, and everything is state-of-the-art,” Fogle said. “We host all kinds of music events, everything from rock to mellow jazz.”
As well as being a live music venue, the space also doubles as a party venue, and in the back is the Baton Rouge Music Exchange, which offers a wide variety of music items as well as lessons. All future events can be viewed on The Ballroom’s website.
The Ballroom’s first show was only a few weeks ago, but it already has a promising string of events lined up. On Sept. 15, The Gentlemen Commoners will be performing the music of the legendary band The Smiths, followed by Darcy Malone and The Tangle the following night.
Tin Roof Brewing Company
Tin Roof Brewing Company is already popular for its locally handcrafted beers, trivia night and weekly Yoga on Tap event, but unknown to many, the space also hosts a live Juke Joint night every Sunday.
About a half mile from the University on Wyoming Street, finish off the week in the tap room with a hearty dose of live music starting at 5 p.m.
On Nov. 10, Amoramora, a self-described progressive funk and multipurpose rock band from Colorado will bring its sound to Tin Roof.
The Parlor
A few blocks off Government Street sits an unassuming brick building known as The Parlor. Inside, the minimalistic and sleek open floor plan serves as a creative workspace, studio and event venue. The Parlor exists to empower Baton Rouge’s creative community, according to its Facebook page.
Besides hosting various private parties, art galleries and work gatherings, The Parlor has had over 50 live music shows within its walls since its inception in early 2016. Local groups Alabaster Stag, Particle Devotion, Hydra Plane and Loudness War have all graced The Parlor floor.
“[A lot of our] shows are hip hop or spoken word performances,” spokesperson Jody Johnston said. “There’s also hardcore and singer-songwriter acts. Bands can book The Parlor and walk away with all the earnings made from the cover at the door.”
The Parlor’s next event is Sept. 28, and serves as fundraiser for those affected by Hurricane Harvey.
Honorable Mentions:
Culture Reggae Club- The Culture Reggae Club is the spot to catch authentic reggae and rap shows in the Red Stick.
Barcadia- Everyone knows Barcadia as the arcade bar right off campus, but there is a new and improved outdoor concert space, complete with a beer garden, where local musicians can play.
Mid City Ballroom sits on 136 South Acadian Thruway in Baton Rouge on Sept. 11, 2017.
