(Image via https://twitter.com/georgieeel)
For the average senior Londoner, the capital’s party scene isn’t what it used to be. Many esteemed clubs have vanished, and some of the biggest DJs around are no longer venturing into this part of the world. Thankfully, though, while some club doors are closing, London’s live music venues are still managing to form a key part of London’s nightlife culture.
In fact, London is home to some of the biggest and best music venues in the world. On the whole, London’s massive population is certainly spoiled here, despite some music venues also being closed down in more recent times. For gig-goers, though, there are some up-and-coming venues, coupled with familiar options that are steeped in history and have hosted some of the most talented musicians around.
For Londoners, there is an evident appetite for seeing live music. The same people who watch endless amounts of music-related content on YouTube, purchase the merchandise of their favorite artists, and even dabble in music-themed games with a retro feel, such as the Disco Beats game, are also helping to shine a light on the capital’s vibrant music scene that is still going strong despite the aforementioned closure of so many popular night spots.
These stunning venues will hopefully be around for a while longer yet, particularly as breakthrough bands and emerging artists flock to the capital in the hope of showcasing their compositions to London’s strong population of music lovers.
So, with some music venues standing out in more recent times after fans witnessed a selection of truly magical gigs, let’s salute some of the very best venues below. After all, without them, London’s nightlife would suffer yet another setback.
The Royal Albert Hall
Kicking things off with one of the city’s most treasured entertainment venues, The Royal Albert Hall’s 5,544 capacity makes it one of the smaller major venues on the list, but it’s impossible to deny its undoubted versatility. From jazz and funk gigs to techno nights, the Grade I-listed building is a true delight that brings together a unique selection of people for a comprehensive range of unmissable shows.
Alexandra Palace
A venue that so many of the city’s music-loving population have experienced, Alexandra Palace’s strong selection of acts means that it’s a location that is always pulling people in. A Grade II-listed palace that oozes history and has featured memorable performances from the likes of Jamie T and Carly Rae Jepsen in more recent times, but has also seen iconic bands like Black Sabbath and The Who play there, the ‘Ally Pally’ is a truly unique venue that many people regard as the home of London’s music scene.
The O2
(Image via https://twitter.com/TheO2)
If you’re someone who prefers to see live music in smaller venues with a more intimate feel, then The O2 probably isn’t for you. A venue that hosts some of the biggest and most diverse range of artists around, it’s still a favored choice for many music connoisseurs. From the Chemical Brothers and Nicki Minaj to Ariana Granda and Lana Del Ray, this glorious venue is a place some of the world’s biggest artists rely on to showcase their tunes in the best way possible.
Roundhouse
One of the city’s more charming venues, Camden’s Roundhouse is a former railway engine repair shed that has been successfully converted into one of London’s top music destinations. The venue’s architecture and history is fascinating, while the modern-day offerings it serves up are a real treat.
Special mention must also go to O2 Forum Kentish Town, Shepherd’s Bush Empire, Electric Ballroom, KOKO, EartH, Scala, Union Chapel, The Garage, and The Underworld.
