Known for generating some top-tier smash hits in the industry, Birmingham is a mecca for music enthusiasts. No matter what genre you bop along to, some of these Brum bars, pubs and clubs offer epic tunes nearly every weekend.
Whether you're head banging along in the birthplace of rock or simmering down to a glass of champagne alongside a piano accompaniment, there's something for everyone. Check out our recommendations for the best live music in Birmingham.
The Jam House Live Sessions is a curated series of music nights and daytime parties. Bringing together feel‑good anthems, soul classics, Latin rhythms and unforgettable party energy, there's an event here to suit every kind of taste.
We talking dance nights, swing, rock, big band, tribute acts and up-and-comers. Whatever takes your fancy, tickets start from just £5.50.
O'Neill's may be best known as a pub for sports lovers, but they also host some fantastic performances every weekend. Fridays see Resident DJ Chris Tuffin filling the dancefloor as he plays the best of dance, RnB, hip hop and chart toppers.
As for Saturdays, you can expect a different live band each week. Enjoy refreshing drinks in their cosy space while you enjoy the performance, with a variety of local and touring artists from a variety of genres. And the best part? Entry to both events is free.
Every Friday and Saturday night, you'll find a range of talented live musicians playing at The Botanist. This city centre venue is full of rustic charm, boasting cool vintage decor and lots of pretty greenery.
Sip creative cocktails like the Strawberry Shrub Spritz, while enjoying the entertainment. Hungry? These guys are cooking up everything from pan-fried sea bass to portobello mushroom burgers and sirloin steaks.
One of the best places for live music events in Birmingham, Luna Springs is the open-air arena playing host to a whole range of talent. From mass karaoke sessions and incredible DJs to rising stars on the city's indie scene and even a few international names, this Digbeth bar is the place for new tunes.
You can tuck into a whole lot of delicious street food while you're here too, from vendors like Slice Up My Life and Happy Patty. Pair this with one of their refreshing cocktails or beers, while singing along to brilliant performances or karaoke sessions.
What with the master of music behind this Jewellery Quarter venture, it's no surprise that nearly every night is host to some of the best musicians in the country. Jools Holland is the founder of The Jam House, in collaboration with designer Neil Tibbatt, and it's clear to see how his influence reigns over its enthusiasm for great shows and even greater music.
There's an impressive 600-person capacity here but spots still sell out quickly, so don't miss out on all the jazz nights and other cracking performances on offer. And if it's your birthday, they even offer a bespoke cake service to make things feel extra special.
A traditional Irish boozer in Hall Green, D.J. Quinn's has got a packed out gig calendar. With the feel of a traditional public house, it's perfect for live music, whatever you're into.
Touring pros and local legends take to the stage here to bang out everything from traditional tunes to classic covers and songs that are soon to be your new favourites.
Sometimes, it's all about the independents, and The Hare and Hounds are no exception. Hosts to UB40's first ever gig, this pub in Kings Heath has been making strides ever since, promising Birmingham's music-loving punters a grand selection of local treats, festival after-parties and jaw-dropping live shows.
You can always count on them for live music in Birmingham on a Friday night, with a number of mid-week events on the cards too. And if you're feeling peckish, tuck into everything from juicy burgers to cheesy toasties and chicken wings.
O2 is a name you know all too well for their affiliation with music. Another of Birmingham's great venues, the O2 Academy in the city centre has a great roster of live bands big and small, along with comedy and club nights.
They've seen names like The Libertines, Sea Girls, Lana Del Rey and more here over the years, as well as plenty of smaller local acts too. There's room for up to 3,000 people at a time, so it's bound to be a wild party.
One of the best places for live music in Birmingham on Saturdays and beyond, Mama Roux's is an excellent choice. Featuring percussion, violinists, saxophonists, and performers, the venue is fab whether you're stopping by for a disco-inspired roast or an epic night out with friends.
Many of their events are free to enter, and you'll always find a strong lineup of gigs in the coming weeks. They've had some amazing artists and world-class DJs here in the past, so you're in for a treat.
If you're looking for some of the biggest names in the music business at one of the largest venues in Birmingham, then The Institute has it all. Having been around since 1955, this venue has seen everyone from Foals to Rita Ora taking to the stage.
Catering to over 1500 music lovers, this super venue in Birmingham's quirky Digbeth has seen them all. Will they be seeing you too?
Take a music-mad teleport mission back to the boogie-busting bygone decades of the 60s, 70s and 80s, as uplifting music lair The Night Owl screams retro in Digbeth. With funky interiors to match and a top-notch lineup, it's one of the best places for a boogie to live music.
There's also a huge beer garden for daytime goings-on, including DJ sets, street food vendors and bottomless brunches. Expect everything from soul and Motown to disco and funk, with the occasional 90s twist from Britpop and indie too.
Looking for pubs with live music in Birmingham From reggae sessions to open mic Wednesdays and DJs every weekend, this Moseley pub and kitchen has got the music scene covered, alongside some delicious barbecue eats and a slap-up craft beer selection.
They host something different almost every single evening, whether that's a tribute band, acoustic set or something else entirely. Many of their events are free too, so you won't need to break the bank.
