From hazy stages tucked behind boozy bars to rooftops that hum with electric energy, live music is alive and thriving in every corner of the country. The 2024 Best Live Music Venue finalists, know what it means to blend atmosphere with acoustics, and individuality. These aren’t just places to grab a drink – they’re where memories are made, and where every night feels like a front-row experience. Meet the venues setting the tempo for Australia’s live music culture, as we approach our 2025 Bar Awards this September.
Memphis Slims House of Blues, Adelaide SA
Memphis Slims House of Blues was awarded last years Best Live Music Venue, and for a reason. This dimly lit den channels the deep south with its bluesy lineup and old-school cocktail curation. The music is smooth, the mood is ambient, and the atmosphere is all round cool.
Beneath Driver Lane, Melbourne VIC
Tucked under a laneway in the CBD, this moody basement bar is all about blues, whisky, and a good time. Expect live music here that feels raw and intimate.
Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane QLD
A Fortitude Valley favourite with vintage charm and a quality sound setup. Whether it’s local indie or something heavier, Black Bear keeps the atmosphere light and the tunes loud.
Pleasure Club, Sydney NSW
One of Sydney’s most loved Newtown venue’s, equal parts live music venue and immersive fever dream. Expect boundary-pushing music, in a room built for a spectacle, with creative cocktails to match.
Charlie’s of Darwin, Darwin NT
A warm, rustic bar, which brings live music to the top end with serious style. Think local bands and a crowd that’s always up for one more round.
Brooklyn Standard, Brisbane QLD
No matter the day, you will find live music every night of the week here, from funk to soul to full-blown rock ’n’ roll. It’s energetic, and always packed out for a reason.
Cherry Bar, Melbourne VIC
One of Melbourne’s most famous rock dives. Gritty, loud, and full of history. The venue soaked in neon lighting, and good times if those walls could talk, they would be yelling.
Ramblin’ Rascal Tavern, Sydney NSW
With its basement grit, extensive booze selection and loud live sets, Rascal’s earned its stripes as a Sydney staple for a reason, it’s unpretentious and full of life.
Shady Pines Saloon, Sydney NSW
A country dive with heart, Shady’s does live music the old-fashioned way, cold beer, foot-tapping tunes, and a room full of regulars who come to listen every week.
The Trocadero Room, Sydney NSW
An underground gem that’s quickly built a reputation for live acts with style and edge, featuring velvet booths, dim low lighting, and a dancefloor that never stops.