11 Top Live Music Venues in Johannesburg

Bassline first opened in 1994 in Melville and quickly became known as the best spot to see live jazz and Afro-beat music. It was also frequented by many well-known names in the local music industry, including Vusi Mahlasela, Paul Hanmer, and Tumi & The Volume. Bassline moved to a larger venue in Newtown in 2004 and is to this day one of the top live music spots in the city.

Location:

10 Henry Nxumalo Street, Newtown

Carfax, established in 1995, initially opened to give smaller bands and performers much-needed exposure. The underground club quickly grew into one of the most popular music clubs in the inner city and stands proud as the host of many music festivals and cultural events. Visit Carfax for the best of alternative and electronic music and don’t forget to check out their popular club nights.

Location:

Gwigwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown

A good night out is guaranteed |Courtesy of Carfax

Katzy’s is the place to go if you’d like a dose of local jazz. Bands perform five nights a week and the venue neighbors, The Grillhouse, is one of the best steakhouses in town. Katzy’s also boasts extensive wine, whiskey, and cigar menus to complete the evening.

Location:

The Firs Shopping Centre, Bierman Avenue, Rosebank

The Orbit is a swanky jazz club in Braamfontein which was born out of a passion for live music. Food and drinks are served as well so patrons can really kick back and soak it all in. From open mic evenings to contemporary jazz performances, The Orbit is a must-visit when in the area.

Location:

81 de Korte Street, Braamfontein

The stage is the main focus of the jazz bar |Courtesy of The Orbit / Yiannis Hadjiaslanis

Some of the biggest names in South African music have performed at Rumours Lounge, so there’s no doubt why it’s considered a premier live music venue. If you’re in the mood for rock ‘n roll, blues, or even metal, you’ve come to the right place.

The Radium Beer Hall has a rich history and is one of the oldest establishments in Johannesburg. Local mementos form part of the interior and live music is enjoyed four nights a week. Take a seat at the bar and enjoy a cold beer while getting to know the locals who frequent Radium Beer Hall.

Location:

282 Louis Botha Ave, Orange Grove

Radium Beer Hall has stood the test of time and is the city’s live music gem |Courtesy of Radium Beer Hall

The Good Luck Bar is housed in one of the oldest warehouses in the city and attracts a large crowd on most nights. It’s a popular gathering spot for music lovers and one of the hippest bars in Johannesburg where pretty much every music genre can be heard.

Location:

c/o Main Street & Alexander Street, Ferreirasdorp

Kitchener’s Carvery Bar in Braamfontein opened in 1906 and transforms from a casual day-time bar to a bustling music venue in the evenings. The dance floor is filled with fans moving and grooving to the live music, performed by local and international DJs, over an impressive Martin Audio sound system.

In downtown Johannesburg, you’ll find an edgy development filled with quirky stores, restaurants, and bars. Stanley Beer Yard is the end destination where a lively atmosphere is fuelled by live jazz and vinyl evenings. This is the ideal spot to end a weekend while sipping on locally brewed craft beers and soaking up the sunshine.

Chicago’s Piano Bar is the first of its kind in Johannesburg and radiates a typical 1920s glam. Live entertainment is on from Tuesday to Sunday and includes musicians and DJs as well as themed evenings. The underground piano bar is ideal for private parties while the balcony is great for enjoying sundowners.

Location:

3645 Bosbok Road, Randpark Ridge, Randburg

The bar offers some of the best drink specials in town |Courtesy of Chicago’s Piano Bar

We’ve covered a lot of casual live music venues, but The Lyric Theatre deserves a mention as one of the biggest entertainment venues in Johannesburg. With over 1,000 seats and six royal boxes, The Lyric resembles a world-class opera house and has hosted everything from local and international music performances to ballet.