Where Are the Best Live Music Locations in Charleston, South Carolina?

Live music in Charleston, South Carolina, is easy to find because so many venues prioritize bringing in musicians from around the world. However, choosing just the right spot for a wonderful night out is the hard part. To locate all of Charleston’s best live music venues, use this guide to explore the amazing options available.

The Commodore

Address: The Commodore, 504 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29403

At The Commodore, everyone is treated to soothing jazz tunes in a vintage setting. Since the 1980s, the Commodore has served as a key player in the Charleston live music scene. Jazz and funk musicians grace their stage up to five nights a week, giving guests an amazing show while they sip their drinks.

On their drink menu, the Commodore expert bartenders pour craft brews and create cocktails classic and inventive. Additionally, they have red and white wine along with several types of champagne. Even without ordering any drinks, the Commodore’s chill atmosphere provides an excellent place to relax and unwind any day of the week. It earned accolades in 2021 as Charleston’s best dance bar and jazz club.

Music Farm

Address: Music Farm, 32 Ann Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29403

At Music Farm, event organizers host many live music artists across many genres. Everyone from Third Eye Blind to Snoop Dogg has performed here, treating guests to the time of their lives in its initimate setting. Music Farm’s multipurpose venue accommodates up to 1,000 people at any given time, though much of the space is standing room only. Everyone can buy t-shirts, buttons, and other fun merchandise during the show to commemorate their time there. Besides music acts, it hosts theater, comedy, and private event functions. It’s operated by the same company as Music Hall.

Charleston Music Hall

Address: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29403

Globally renowned acts and local musicians alike play on stage at the historic Charleston Music Hall. The theater is a low-key venue with big character, as its original architecture harkens back over a century. Today it has ample seating for guests amazed by the space’s acoustics. Musicians often use fun lighting to elevate their acts, giving patrons quite a show.

Purchase drinks and snacks from the concession stand before enjoying the performance. The Charleston Music Hall’s drink menu includes soda, water, iced coffee, and energy drinks, plus alcoholic beverages. Their most popular offering is the Cannonborough Ginger Beer. Hand pies are served on the second floor when the venue is open.

Forte Jazz Lounge

Address: Forte Jazz Lounge, 477 King Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29403

Each week, the New York-inspired Forte Jazz Lounge welcomes musicians to play live and wow the crowds, as local and global sensations are on the stage every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The acts are split between two shows; the first starts at 7 pm, with the doors opening at 6 pm, and the second starts at 9:30 pm sharp, with entry beginning at 9 pm. The family-friendly venue is open to patrons of all ages.

Guests can choose between general, premium, and VIP seating to match their comfort expectations. No matter where they sit, all guests enjoy the same quality of music, as Forte Jazz Lounge has a high-quality sound system amplifying the show. Order from the drink menu during the show, including craft beer and wine selections.

Each Charleston live music venue delights guests with a different atmosphere and experience. Everyone can enjoy the best of South Carolina and have a great time by visiting each and deciding on their favorite.

Updated January 2024