Birmingham has always been a legendary musical city, and is an essential stop for any artist heading out on a major tour. As well as large venues with huge acts, there is an exciting network of smaller, underground venues that offer music and events to cater to every musical taste. Get ready to find your next favourite artist or club night in one of these awesome venues!
XOYO Birmingham
29 Lower Trinity Street, B9 4AG
Formerly known as The Mill and recently rebranded to XOYO, this smart venue has been on the receiving end of some extensive investment and offers a range of events, from House and R&B club nights to live bands.
The large main space attracts established acts such as the Zutons and cult favourites like The Lovely Eggs, as well as top DJs such as Craig Charles and Gok Wan. The tranquil roof garden is the perfect place to chill out, with stunning views of the city, especially at sunset.
The venue also plays host to ACC Birmingham’s end of year celebration and a festival in July, with live bands, DJs and MCs appearing alongside beautiful artwork and film – watch this space for a date to be announced soon!
The Rainbow
160 High Street, Deritend, B12 0LD
The Rainbow has always been an important part of the Birmingham music scene, with acts such as UB40 and La Roux gracing the stage on their way to fame and success. Sadly, the venue closed for four years after falling into disrepair, but it has now been lovingly restored and has re-established itself as one of the most exciting venues in the city.
The gig offering is extensive, taking in Rock, Metal and Indie, as well as legendary club nights with R&B, Garage and House DJs playing to big crowds most weekends. Best of all, the Rainbow frequently features ACC Birmingham performers, and is a particular favourite of students on our Artist Development course.
Devil’s Dog
148 Adderley Street, B9 4ED
Birmingham is famed as the birthplace of Heavy Metal, with Black Sabbath breaking out onto the world stage in the 1970s and blazing a trail for dozens of other metal bands from the city. Devil’s Dog carries on this fine tradition, with the best up-and-coming Rock and Metal acts from all over the world alongside established bands, club nights and tribute nights which are loads of fun!
What’s more, the owner Asad is a big supporter of unsigned acts and is always on the lookout for emerging talent. Billed as ‘Birmingham’s most brutal venue’, it’s not for the faint hearted, but if Rock and Metal is your bag then Devil’s Dog is a must-visit.
O2 Institute Birmingham
78 Digbeth, B5 6DY
The O2 Institute building is a former church, and has been hosting live music since the early 1900s when it was known as the Digbeth Institute. After various name changes and rebrands through the 90s and 00s, the venue is now owned by international entertainment giant Live Nation, and is one of many venues nationwide that share the O2 Academy name. The result is a beautiful venue that is steeped in history, but with serious pulling power for established international acts.
Alongside an excellent selection of Rock and Indie, the venue also hosts upcoming R&B and Hip-Hop acts such as Mariah the Scientist and Yung Gravy. There’s something going on most nights of the week, so it’s definitely worth checking the listings if you’re planning a night out.
The Night Owl
17-18 Lower Trinity Street, B9 4AG
Another favourite of students here at ACC, The Night Owl is the place to find an eclectic range of live bands and DJs, and has played host to some of ACC Birmingham’s most explosive gigs.
This great bar can boast top quality musicians playing a range of different styles, but the hidden gem on the calendar is the famous monthly ‘Neighbourhd’ jam night. Local instrumentalists take to the stage with rappers and vocalists for scintillating jam sessions, with audience participation wholeheartedly encouraged. It’s an exciting watch, but even more thrilling to take part!
Interested in studying music in Birmingham?
If you’re passionate about music and ready to build a career in the incredible creative hub that is Birmingham, find out what Access Creative College has to offer. Book your place on an upcoming open day or taster event.
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