Like Live Music? We Have That

Whatever your groove, you can get it on. Live and in person. What else would expect from the place that gave you DEVO, Chrissie Hynde, the O’Jays and The Black Keys? In summer, head to the outdoor Blossom Music Center to see major tours such as Jason Aldean and Ne-Yo.

Looking for a smaller venue?

Visit the Akron Civic Theatre, the jewel on Main Street that draws groups like Straight No Chaser and Brian Culbertson. Next to the Civic in the historic Whitelaw Building, you’ll find The Knight Stage that seats 200, a perfect setting for an intimate show. E.J. Thomas Hall on The University of Akron Campus features international artists such as The King Singers.

The Goodyear Theater, once part of the famous tire company, seats 1,500. You just may find the likes of Nelson and Grand Funk Railroad playing there.

Each Friday and Saturday night all year, the Canton Music Block in downtown Canton reverberates with live music of all types. Buzzbin Art and Music Shop and George’s Lounge are definitely worth a stop. The Canton Arts District also has five live music venues among its many galleries and studios.

Rock the lock with your favorite tribute bands all summer at Lock 3 Park, the enormously popular amphitheater in downtown Akron.

At Jilly’s Music Room in Akron’s Northside and Musica (under the Dance sign on Maiden Lane) downtown, you can hear the very best local and regional bands while sipping your favorite drink.

If you’re a jazz fan, head to BLU Jazz or the Lock Bottom Blues & Jazz Club in downtown Akron or the Old 97 Caf. in the Kenmore neighborhood of Akron. Kenmore is also home to the Rialto Theatre and the Akron Recording Company, which are run by musicians for musicians.

The annual Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival keeps the hep cats happy. Falls Downtown Fridays and Kenmore First Fridays help hard workers slide into the weekend with some of the area’s best bands.

And if you need the best homegrown music 24/7, stream it at the330.net, sponsored by 91.3 FM The Summit, which is operated by the Akron Public Schools. You’ll hear The Black Keys and DEVO, of course. But you’ll also discover new area artists you’re bound to love. The McKinley Museum