Catch Live Music at these Oakland County Venues

Pine Knob
Pine Knob regularly brings in the biggest artists in the world and the venue supports this. I plan to see Ghost, Godsmack, and Disturbed here this summer, but it’s not only modern rock artists at this 15,000+ seat amphitheater, as you’ll find Santana, Elvis Costello, 50 Cent, Pentatonix, and Queen playing here this summer. Tickets range in price, but they start at $25 if you don’t mind the grass. Being up in the pit may cost an order of magnitude more, but if it’s one of your favorite artists, it may be money well spent. Parking is included in the price of the ticket, but budget adequate time (maybe 30 - 45 minutes) to get in and out as traffic may hold you up.

Royal Oak Music Theater
With a capacity of 1,700 the Royal Oak Music Theater feels much smaller, and intimate than you’d expect. The venue is known for its diverse array of music and comedians, but the most exciting shows here are the special acoustic presentations of solo artists. Parking in downtown Royal Oak garages is free for two hours, and $0.75 per hour afterwards, so make use of this and there is no shortage of dining or drink options to stop at either before or after the show.

The Crofoot
With multiple venues for niche to semi-popular artists, the Crofoot hosts some of the most fun and wild shows in the metro area. You won’t see the arena-level names here, but there’s often a well known pop, metal, or rap artist to catch. The stage is small and the venue can be tight, so keep your expectations realistic, but the venue is everything you want for a smaller, more intimate show with artists you and a couple pals really enjoy. All tickets are General Admission, so arrive early. Parking is generally abundant, but don’t be surprised if local lot owners want a $5-10 fee.

Magic Bag
Magic Bag will be smaller shows with mostly standing room only, but there are limited seats along the walls. There are multiple levels at this venue too and if you need a snack or drink you can find small tables on the middle and upper levels; however, don’t be surprised if these are removed for a popular or sold-out show. The middle and upper levels tend to be more relaxed, but you can mosh and have a good time if you’re on the lower floor, right up by the stage.

ELEKTRICITY
ELEKTRICITY is Oakland County’s premier electronic music spot, in an industrial setting and full of neon lights and colors. Shows are General Admission and most are standing room only. No outside food, beverages, or large bags allowed, but the venue has a full bar. Check their website for details on cover charge as this is variable.

Berkley Coffee & Oak Park Dry Bar
Bringing things down to a much more local level, Berkley Coffee hosts live music every weekend. Their artists are typically local, but incredibly talented. You won’t see triple-platinum rockstars here, but in a decade you may see an artist you heard at this venue receiving an award. The venue also has incredible single-origin coffee and mocktails that appeal to the whole family, and if you bring the kids and they get a bit noisy - you can send them into the kid room behind the stage which is stocked with games and toys.

Cabaret 313
Cabaret is a unique live music performance, where the singer tells a story to the audience through song. It is meant to be an intimate experience, evoking emotions from laughter, to sadness, and an overall bond between artist and listener. Cabaret 313 will release its 2023-24 schedule soon. The facility also fosters growth of musical talent through their classes and training program.

Apothecary Espresso and Coffee
Apothecary is a fun, casual alternative to the chain coffee shop in downtown Farmington. While you’re maybe here for the beverages, Apothecary prides itself on being an inclusive location that enhances its community with open-mic nights and provides a venue for local artists to express themselves. Take a look at the calendar, you’ll surely find local music with the only cover charge being a delicious coffee.

Knight Amphitheater
Downtown Auburn Hills’ riverfront amphitheater boasts free live music, every Friday night, all summer long! Local acts take stage to give you a show and entertain as you explore Downtown Auburn Hills or relax along the terraced grass seating.

526 Main Dueling Piano Bar
If you’ve never experienced the fun of dueling pianos, do yourself a favor and check it out this weekend. You can catch this at 526 Main on Friday and Saturday nights. The idea is people make requests, with a tip, and the artist will play the song. If you hate the song, go request a different song, with a better tip. Add friends, food, and drink, and this is a great night of impressive musical talent. Pro tip: Request Tiny Dancer at some point.

The Morrie
With two locations, The Morrie bills itself as Food, Drink, Music. It does not disappoint. Either location will have a weekend lineup of live music, with the Royal Oak location hosting popular Saturday and Sunday brunch shows. Grab a Morrie Mule or some chicken and waffles, and enjoy the music, and company.