We’re huge music fans here at the Morningsider and can’t get enough live music. As an important part of Harlem’s culture, there are a multitude of local music venues where fans of all different genres can enjoy performances from both local and national musicians.
Here are a few of our favorite Harlem music staples…. where do you like to listen to your favorite artists?
A very special venue, Shrine features a lively combination of jazz, pop and world music. Shrine is open to all ages, with live sets changing every couple of hours and no cover to get in. In addition to the terrific music scene, you can also enjoy things like film screenings, art exhibits and major sporting events. Upcoming performances include: Circular Time on June 1 from 8:00 – 10:00pm and Earth Minor on June 2 from 9:00 – 10:00pm. For more information on Shrine World Music Venue and a full calendar of upcoming events, please visit their website at: www.shrinenyc.com.
Another celebrated Harlem staple is the Apollo Theater. Both a city and state landmark, the Apollo has been creating history since 1934 with its variety of shows and programs, such as the famous Amateur Night at the Apollo, which started the careers of stars like Ella Fitzgerald. Upcoming performances include: Pino Danielle on June 7 at 8:00pm and Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) on June 14 at 9:00pm. For more information on the Apollo Theater and a full calendar of upcoming events, please visit their website at: www.apollotheater.org.
This new hot-spot is can be found tucked away in the basement of Red Rooster, the acclaimed Marcus Samuellson restaurant which opened to much fan-fair in 2010. Ginny’s is designed in swanky modern fashion and live music sets range from jazz to Latin to soul and much more. The legendary JIMMY SCOTT will descend upon Ginny’s for a special three-night engagement on June 6th, 8th, and 9th. Performing two sets each night (8pm and 10:30pm; $20 each for standing room only), Scott will perform hits from his 70-year career as a prominent player in music history. The drink menu is diverse and creative, including a Good Times (gin, thyme, lemon, and colonial bitters) or the Rooster Colada (coconut rum, strawberries, pineapple, and cream). For more information, please visit: http://www ginnyssupperclub.com.
Named for a 1961 Paul Newman-Sidney Poitier movie, this dive bar has been a destination for Harlem residents for over 42 years. The live music starts at 8pm most nights – insiders say go early to grab one of the very few seats and enjoy free munchies while listening to the music. The Goddess Lakshmi plays folk-rock, pop and blues on Sundays nights at 7:30pm through July 15. Paris Blues Bar is located at 2021 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd at 121st St.



