Is there anything better than a night out at a live music gig? Working up a sweat as you sway to the beat of your favourite band with a collective of music-loving people, the bass thrumming in your chest. Yep, it’s a euphoric feeling and one we can’t get enough of.
Fortunately, Singapore is home to a slew of epic spots providing a stage for both international headliners and cool underground acts just waiting to be discovered. From well known musical institutions to hidden gems—there’s a venue to suit everyone’s vibe.
So, round up your mates and dig out your social diaries, these are the best live music venues to check out in Singapore.
The Esplanade
Not sure where to begin the search for a great night of live tunes? Look no further than The Esplanade. Located right by Marina Bay, here you’ll find an incredible lineup of local musicians. But what makes this place even better is that every single evening you can catch a free performance at the Esplanade Concourse. On the weekends, snag a spot on the giant steps, gaze at the sparkling city skyline and marvel at the amazing talent taking the stage at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre.
Timbre
You’d be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t claimed to have had ‘the best night of their life’ at Timbre. The music institution was purpose-built 14 years ago as a hub for fostering new talent. As a result, the venue has become a centre of excellent food and even better music—they’ve even created a music academy. With three venues to choose from, expect everything from dreamy acoustic sets to rock bands—our favourite is Timbre X S.E.A. for the riverfront dining experience.
Le Noir
Sitting pretty at Marina Bay Sands, Le Noir offers a stylish alfresco setting so if you like a laid-back cocktail with stunning views of Singapore’s skyline while blessing your ears with live music, then this place is for you. On any given night you’re guaranteed good vibes and behind the mic, you’ll find musicians serenading the crowds with everything from hand-clapping singalongs to soulful acoustic sets. With happy hour running daily until 7pm, add this epic spot to your hit list.
Level Up
Is there anything better than retro arcade games, beer pong, towering American-style burgers, cocktails and live music? We think not. If you agree, you’ll want to gather your crew for the ultimate night out at Level Up. With graffiti-covered walls, exposed ceilings and neon lights, this cool joint is the perfect backdrop for live music. The jam-packed roster means there’s someone playing every night so grab your friends and head on down.
Kult Yard
When it comes to unique music venues, they don’t get much more quirky than Kult Yard. Located in a former police barracks in the heart of Chinatown, this art cafe is from the same crew behind much loved Kult Kafe. The open-air venue is a kaleidoscope of colours, with locally painted murals adoring everything from the floor to the walls. Enjoy some locally flavoured cocktails as you vibe out to a mix of latin, hip hop, trance and R’n’B beats.
Maduro
If silky smooth jazz is your thing, then saunter your way to Maduro. The Dempsey Hill supper club is where classic and cool collide. With an uber chic, moodily lit interior, slip into a cosy armchair, sip a tipple from the curated cocktail list inspired by music, and bless your ears as jazz bands croon away on stage. The roving music schedule means no matter how often you stop by, chances are you’ll discover a new favourite every time.
Cuba Libre Cafe & Bar
Dial up the heat on your next night out with a visit to Cuba Libre Cafe & Bar. Expect Latin American tunes from house band Adrenalina, who will have your shoulders shimmying and hips swinging with their salsa, bachata and reggaeton beats. Next, resident DJ Boi Kay will take you late into the night spinning beats that will have you burning up the dance floor.
Hero’s
Travel to the wild west at Hero’s, a saloon-style bar dedicated to making sure you have a truly epic night out. The sprawling 2,500 ft venue is adorned with longhorn skulls, saddles, exposed brick walls and beer-tap booths, so you can pour your own beer at your table. Three nights a week, the bar’s resident pop-rock band takes to the stage putting on a performance that will have you boot-scooting in no time.
Offtrack
If you want to score bragging rights from your mates for picking the coolest venue for a night out, then book a table at Offtrack. The eclectic bar and restaurant (think low lighting, a disco ball and blonde timbre furnishings) serves up drool-worthy pan Asian eats, tasty tipples and smooth vinyl beats. It’s good vibes only here.
Stage
Combining epic eats with acoustic live music sets, Stage is where you should be headed on your next night out. Snag a table or slip into a leather chesterfield at this intimate gastro pub and score a front row seat to some of Singapore's best acoustic performances. Like playing DJ? Request for your favourite song while tucking into some crispy pork belly and rib eye steak.
Keen to check out what else goes on in Singapore after dark? From live music venues to vibing rooftop bars, the possibilities here are endless. Head to Singapore Tourism for more info.
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Image Credit: Offtrack Instagram