The life of a professional musician can be quite rewarding, but it isn’t an easy thing to do, especially at the beginning. Sure, the real talent is supposed to make a difference in the end, but the truth is not everybody can make it in this business. Regardless, people will always have dreams and aspire for greatness, hoping that someday they will be able to sell out tickets to their show at some of the most prestigious and massive concert venues in the U.S.
On the Road Again
Depending on the music genre, the road will inevitably take the artists to specific parts of the country. The best jazzmen would try the most prestigious clubs in New Orleans while bluesmen might wander around Memphis in search of their inspiration. But no matter where people enjoy listening to some good music, there will always be performers trying to deliver.
In the spirit of having fun and seeking out good music, some local establishments are indeed better than others. It seems like the city of Las Vegas, for example, was made for the occasion. Naturally, the famous destination is commonly known as an international home to all sorts of casino entertainment, including the most popular poker variants and other card games as well as real money wagering propositions. However, the numerous charming spots with live music scattered around the town reflect the importance of suchlike entertainment. Places like House of Blues, T-Mobile Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, and The Colosseum at Caesars Palace are where the magic happens. Booking a show there means you’re doing something right, perhaps even following in the footsteps of big stars like Sammy Davis, Jr., Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Celine Dion, and Mariah Carey. Alternatively, the beginners or musicians outside the mainstream can find themselves attractive clubs with niche or indie live music where they can get gigs.
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Go Big or Go Home
Every youngster with a guitar and the ambitions of rocking hard must admit the whole point of a career in this field is to record albums and perform in front of live audiences. Going on tour is not only a cool way to make a living but also, an excellent opportunity to explore the country and visit new places. Those also include various charming spots where people can hear you play. However, depending on the capacity, outdoor settings are probably the best for bigger crowds as performing in such circumstances makes it extra thrilling. And besides, more people attending your gig means more money in the pocket.
Apart from stadiums like the Ohio Stadium in Columbus, with a seating capacity of almost 105 thousand, and similar facilities that often host concerts and other big events, there are still plenty of noteworthy venues across the United States worthy of talent, including the following:
• Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, California (17,500 seats)
• Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York (15,000 seats)
• Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland (19,319 seats)
• Greek Theatre at Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California (5,800 seats)
• Gorge Amphitheatre in George, Washington (27,500 seats)
For obvious reasons, indoor locations have limited space and are set for more intimate acts. Undoubtedly, most musicians would love to play at Microsoft Theater or Staples Center in Los Angeles, or the 21,000-seat LDS Conference Centre in Salt Lake City, as well as at some historic places such as The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, The Continental Club in Austin, or Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall in New York.
Perhaps you have your own idea of a perfect spot to share your talent with people. In your music career, it’s good to have dreams and you just might be able to achieve them. Don’t worry if it doesn’t happen overnight. Remember that you have to start somewhere, but keep aiming for the stars!
Talk about some of the top venues you’ve performed at – or the one(s) at the top of your target list – in our Facebook group.