If you're idea of the perfect evening involves a soundtrack of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, The Temptations and Stevie Wonder, we've got just the guide for you.
From buzzing brunch havens to cool live music venues and quirky restaurants with entertainment, here are the best soul and Motown nights in London.
Discover more live music nights in the capital here.
All Star Lanes Holborn is an American-style joint with pink leather couches, disco balls, a diner and bowling. If you're on the hunt for a Motown music night in London, their dedicated club events will have you grooving to tunes from the 50s, 60s and beyond. There are even locations in Stratford, White City and Brick Lane too.
The Phoenix is found in Cavendish Square, hosting its Great Big Kiss Motown nights every single month. Expect to hear artists like Sugar Pie DeSanto, The Shangri-Las, Jackie Wilson, Dusty Springfield and more in this cool basement venue, all for just £6 per person.
Boisdale Of Canary Wharf is home to some legendary Motown nights, funk and soul experiences and live music events. With Jools Holland as its patron, this place promises many groove-along with delicious bites to eat and refreshing drinks to keep you going 'til late.
Yes — several of the best Motown experiences in London combine live music with food, making them ideal for a full evening out.
The two scenes overlap but have distinct identities. Motown refers specifically to the sound of Detroit's Motown Records label — think Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and The Supremes. It's polished, melodic and instantly recognisable. Northern Soul is a broader movement rooted in rare, up-tempo American soul singles from the 1960s and 70s, historically danced to at all-nighters in the North of England.
Absolutely. Motown nights are one of the best group night-out formats in London, because the music is universally loved and the atmosphere is always high. All Star Lanes is a natural group pick: its American-style venues across Holborn, Stratford, White City and Brick Lane combine Motown club nights with bowling, pink leather booths and a diner menu — easy to book for a crowd.
