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Southamptons Alive With Music

Crowd gathered in front of stage for music gig at The 1865

Groove to the Rhythm: Southampton's vibrant music scene awaits

Post date: 12th June 2023
Written by: The Visit Southampton Team

Southampton has always been home to a bustling and eclectic music scene. From the world’s biggest acts gracing St. Mary’s Stadium and Utilita Bowl to the thriving independent scene filled with local bands plying their trades at our local music venues. Here are a handful of venues you should check out around the city:

The Joiners

As one of Southampton’s oldest and best loved music venues, The Joiners has played host to some of the world’s now most famous bands. Artists from the likes of Oasis, Ed Sheeran, Green Day and Arctic Monkeys have all graced the stage of the intimate 200 capacity venue early on in their careers. Once being voted NME’s best small music venue in the UK, The Joiners is still a jewel in the crown of the South’s music scene and hosts great artists every week.

Photo by The Joiners.

The 1865

One of the city’s newer music venues, The 1865 has quickly become a firm favourite hosting a great range of up and coming artists, the world’s best tribute acts, variety shows, wrestling events and much more. With a standing capacity of over 750, the independently run venue works closely with the wider community and has seen exciting acts like Fontaines DC, Yungblud and even local superstar Craig David perform.

Whiskey Blue

Whiskey Blue on London Road is a lively cocktail bar and live music venue. Throughout the week, they're serving up jazz jams, soul and Motown vibes, 90's and 00's DJ nights, and even open mic sessions. To see what's on, visit their Facebook page here.

Photo by Whiskey Blue.

The Brook

The Brook is one of the South’s most beloved music venues. Operating since the early 90s, the 600-capacity venue in Portswood is still housed in a charming large Victorian building with its famous wrap around balcony for great views of the intimate stage. The venue is well known for hosting the best tribute acts in the world, comedy and great music from a wide range of styles. Huge acts such as the late great Taylor Hawkins of Foo Fighters fame, Bastille and Frank Turner have all done the rounds here at one time or another.

The Loft

Situated in the heart of the city centre, the 300-capacity venue is one of the city’s newer music venues, playing host to a great range of musical talent, local and international.
You won’t be hard pressed to see some of the country’s best young rock talent performing at this fantastic and intimate venue.

Engine Rooms

This multi-functioning entertainment space is Southampton’s largest independent music venue. Nestled down by the docks this huge 800-capacity venue plays hosts to weekly events from some of the best touring artists around and is famous for putting on amazing shows with the world’s biggest DJs. Festival headlining worthy electronic artists such as Shy FX and Andy C have all got the city partying at this great city gem.

Heartbreakers

Heartbreakers is one of the South’s fastest growing and most beloved intimate music venues, right in the middle of Southampton city centre. Shortlisted on the Live Music Business Awards, this venue plays host to a wide range of fantastic international touring acts whilst still maintaining a fierce support for the local Hampshire music scene.

For all the latest event listings check out our What's On page here.