Concerts & Live Music
Finding live music in Madison is never difficult. From classical music to karaoke, jazz clubs to fresh-air venues, festivals to symphonies. You won’t want to miss the musical aspect of the arts & culture scene in Madison. See a calendar of this week's shows ›
MADISON'S MUSIC TIES
Madison’s music scene has made its mark on the world. Drummer Butch Vig of Garbage got his start in Madison — as did the careers of bands that recorded at Vig’s Smart Studios: Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Everclear and Fall Out Boy, to name a few.
Unfortunately, one musician’s end was made famous in Madison: Soul legend Otis Redding died when his plane crashed into Lake Monona in 1967, just three days after recording his best-known hit “(Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay.”
To this day, many notable musicians have made their homes in Madison, including James Brown’s former drummer Clyde Stubblefield. Acclaimed jazz bassist Richard Davis, who has a long list of performance and recording credits with stellar artists including Sarah Vaughan, Eric Dolphy, Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, John Lennon and Miles Davis, was a professor at UW-Madison for more than 40 years.
VARIETY OF VENUES
If your formula for finding great music is finding the spots where locals go to listen to a live show, you won’t want to miss the variety of venues that make up Madison’s mix. You’ll find music events happening every week.
Madison's oldest theatre, Majestic Theatre, opened in 1906 and is a beloved venue located just off the Capitol Square. From admired performers, to themed dance parties, a fun time and a great view is guaranteed at this intimate theatre.
The Orpheum Theater is a live performance and music theater centrally located on State Street making it a centerpiece of downtown Madison. This large yet intimate theatre style-venue has hosted an abundance of nationally renowned musicians.
Located in the heart of Willy Street is Cafe Coda, Madison's premier jazz space. This beloved jazz club owned by jazz legend Hanah Jon Taylor offers and up close and personal live music experience with it's bar and food options and cozy seating.
The Sylvee is Madison's newest music venues where up-and comers and beloved favorites put on shows you won't forget. Whether you like to enjoy live music in the general admission standing room, seated in the balcony or from a cozy VIP suite, every concert go-er can be satisfied.
Celebrating it's 20 year anniversary this year, High Noon Saloon is a music venue that hosts up-and-coming local and touring acts as well as larger beloved bands. Along with their indoor venue space, their rooftop patio offers free live music during the summer.
North Street Cabaret is a music venue on the North side of Madison dedicated to the presentation of roots music. The space offers a variety of music genres including jazz, blues, bluegrass, gospel, traditional country, folk, Tejano and so much more.
Along with being the home field for the Madison Forward FC soccer team, Breese Stevens Field has played as host to many well known artists. This outdoor venue offers the best spot for a concert on a summer night.
Liquid Madison is a busy and successful college-town indie music venue. Located on University Avenue, Liquid is nationally recognized for their quality electronic music. Regularly hosting DJs and EDM artists, this 18+ club with get you out and moving.
