Birmingham has a rich musical history, from the birth of heavy metal with Black Sabbath and Judas Priest to the pioneering sounds of reggae and ska with UB40 and The Beat. Today, the city continues to thrive with a vibrant music scene, attracting talent from across the globe. Whether you’re a fan of indie rock, electronic music, hip-hop or anything in between, the has something for every music lover. Here are our Top 5 insider picks:
- The Diskery – Record Store
The Diskery is an iconic record store in Birmingham, renowned for its vast collection of vinyl records and its historical significance. Founded in 1952, it’s one of the oldest record shops in the UK and has become a pilgrimage site for music lovers from all over the world. The store has an extensive collection of rare and hard-to-find records, including blues, jazz, rock, soul, and reggae. It’s a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts alike, with knowledgeable staff who are always happy to offer recommendations and advice.
But The Diskery isn’t just a store – it’s a piece of history. The shop has seen many famous faces over the years, from Ozzy Osbourne and Robert Plant to members of The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. It’s also been a hub for Birmingham’s music scene, with local musicians and bands gathering there to buy records and share their love of music. The store has survived the rise of digital music and the decline of physical media, thanks to its loyal customer base and the enduring appeal of vinyl. Visiting The Diskery is a must for any music lover in Birmingham.
- Pirate Studios
Pirate Studios is a game-changer for musicians in Birmingham. It’s a state-of-the-art rehearsal and recording facility that’s available 24/7, 365 days a year. The studios are equipped with the latest equipment and technology, including drum kits, amps, microphones, and mixing desks, and they can accommodate bands of all sizes. The facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and inspiring environment for musicians to practice, record, and collaborate.
But Pirate Studios isn’t just a rehearsal space – it’s a community. The studio hosts events, workshops, and networking opportunities for musicians, helping to connect them with other like-minded creatives and industry professionals. It’s a hub for Birmingham’s music scene, with a diverse range of artists and genres represented. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, Pirate Studios is a must visit for anyone looking to take their music to the next level.
- The Custard Factory
With its bold and contemporary design, the Custard Factory is an excellent destination for music lovers who are looking to immerse themselves in a creative and alternative scene. The location hosts a range of art galleries, vintage shops, independent cafes, and music venues, making it a great place to explore for those with a curious and open mind.
The Factory’s Digbeth Dining Club is one of Birmingham’s premier street food events, which brings together some of the best independent food traders in the area. It is an excellent place to grab a quick bite to eat before attending a gig, and with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, there is something for everyone.
In terms of music venues, The Custard Factory has several great spots, including The Rainbow Venues, a large and spacious venue that hosts some of the biggest names in the music industry. The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a truly immersive audio and visual experience. Additionally, the venue has several bars that serve a range of drinks, including craft beers, cocktails, and wines.
- The Music Mile
The Music Mile is a stretch of road that runs through the heart of Birmingham’s city centre and is home to a range of music venues, bars, and clubs. The road stretches from Broad Street to Digbeth, and visitors can expect to find a wide variety of music genres, including jazz, rock, pop, and electronic music.
One of the standout venues on The Music Mile is The Jam House, a live music venue that has been in operation for over 20 years. The venue is renowned for its impressive selection of live jazz, blues, and soul performances, which take place on its large stage. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food and drinks while enjoying the music, making it a great place to spend an evening.
Another popular venue on The Music Mile is The O2 Academy, a large and modern venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Arctic Monkeys, Mumford & Sons, and Foo Fighters. The venue has a capacity of over 3,000 people, making it the perfect spot for those looking to attend a large-scale concert.
- Going to a gig
Last but not least, attending a live gig is a must-do for any music lover visiting Birmingham. The city has a thriving music scene, and there are plenty of venues and events to choose from, ranging from intimate gigs to large-scale concerts.
Some of the best venues to check out include the Hare & Hounds, a small and intimate venue that has hosted some of the most exciting up-and-coming acts in the UK music scene, and The Sunflower Lounge, a venue that has become known for its unique atmosphere and diverse range of music genres.
Birmingham is also home to a range of music festivals, including the Moseley Folk Festival and the Mostly Jazz, Funk and Soul Festival, which take place in the city’s parks and open spaces during the summer months.
In conclusion, Birmingham is a fantastic destination for music lovers, with a range of venues, festivals, and events to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of rock, jazz, or electronic music, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse city. So, pack your bags, grab your earplugs, and get ready to explore everything that Birmingham’s music scene has to offer.
