Here's a guide to navigating Chicago's music scene - whether it be live music, record shopping or guitar browsing. Below are some must go to's for any music appreciator travelling through Chicago.
Chicago has arguably one of the most versatile music scene’s in North America. Credited with “Chicago style” jazz in the early 1920’s, Chicago has plenty of sights for the avid jazz-lover. With so many Blues musicians hailing from Chicago including Muddy Watters, Mavis Staples, Elmore James, Buddy Guy and Little Walter (the “Charlie Parker” of harmonica), it’s no doubt that the Blues is the heart and soul of Chicago. However, in recent years Chicago has produced some of today’s best hip hop artists including Kanye West and Chance the Rapper. Below I've included my top choices of music-related things to do/see in the city.
Buddy Guy’s Legend’s
Some say it’s the “best blues club around”, founded by legendary blues guitarist and vocalist Buddy Guy in 1989, he started the club to “protect the blues” after an ailing Muddy Watters called Guy saying “keep the blues alive.” With high quality live blues performmed nightly and a Southern inspired menue, this venue is a popular favourite of both locals and tourists. When Buddy’s in town he can often be spotted sitting at the bar or making an appearence on stage, and in January he plays almost every night.
Dusty Groove
As implied by the stores name, Dusty Groove carries vinyl specific to grooves from around the world. Within the thoughtfully currated bins exist afrobeat, reggae, troppicanna, vintage soul, blues, jazz and some standard finds. If indie is more your thing, check out Laurie’s Planet of Sound, or Reckless Records if you’re looking for a more versatile selection.
Gramaphone Records
If you dig rap and hip hop, hit up Gramaphone Records. Openening in 1969, Gramaphone records started off selling jazz and blues but in the 80’s began to sell underground house and rap, focusing on vinyl for DJ’s. Making it the first of its kind in Chicago, Gramaphone Records continues to be a destination for both DJ’s and the average rap enthusiast alike. Stocking a wicked selection of underground and local hip hop, be sure to check out this shop to take home some sounds of the city on vinyl.
The Chicago Music Exchange
The Chicago Music Exchange (CME) is a music equipment retailer, founded in 1990. In the mid to late 2000’s they played an active role in the vintage guitar boom, resulting in their outstanding collection of vintage guitars and basses. Having noteably one of the most premier selections of basses and guitars, CME is know for its museum-like showroom. They have hosted many noteable customers over the years including Tom Petty, Cage the Elephant, Carlos Santana, Joe Bonamassa, Sting, Adele, Temple Impala, and the list goes on. Any guitar or bass fanatic will be in heaven at this stop (take note of the recently added drum shop).
Riviera Theatre
Since “The Riv’s” opening in 1918, it's served Chicago as a noteable live music venue, hosting both local and global acts. The theatre is an example of French Renaissance Revival architecture, making the venue a cool photo opportunity. Acts including the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Migos, the Ramones, the Cranberries and AC/DC have performed at the venue, proving it to have some versatile history. Tame Impala recorded their Live Versions live album in 2013, and the Smashing Pumpkins played a release party for their 1995 album Melon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. Since 2006 the theatre has been owned by Jam Productions, which claims to be the “largest independant producer of live entertainment in the United States”. For anyone wishing to experience a venue that’s seen a lot over the years, The Riv is an experience that will do no justice. Another historic venue to check out is the Aragon ballroom, located only 0.2 miles from The Riv.
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