A Complete Guide to Detroit's Music Scene

Motown, of course, comes from Detroit's nickname: Motor City. The music of Motown is a toe-tapping blend of soul and pop music. What's now known as a genre or category of music stemmed from a music label that was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. back in 1959. Motown Record Corporation quickly became one of the most successful Black-owned companies, influencing other labels and changing the music landscape throughout American history. It was Berry Gordy Jr.'s wildly successful company that created and gave its name to the ever-so-popular style of soul music that we still enjoy today.

Motown carefully created the pop and soul classics that shaped America. By the 1960s, the Motown Record Corporation was pumping out chart-topping musicians, groups, and artists who embodied its unique sound: The Temptations, Martha and the Vandellas, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and more. These renowned artists defined the Motown sound. Speaking of sound... Motown encompassed hand-clapping, plenty of tambourines, catchy melodies, loud horns, memorable bass lines, and drum parts, and a lead singer supported by backup vocalists.

You won't find a better spot to learn all about Motown history than the Motown Museum. This museum is located in a house that was purchased by Berry Gordy Jr. in 1959. The house became Motown's first recording studio and headquarters and was also called "Hitsville U.S.A." Visitors can find the Motown Museum at 2648 West Boulevard, which is close to the New Center area of Detroit. It takes approximately one hour to venture through the entire museum, and admission is free for kids under the age of four. Previous visitors recommend purchasing your tickets online beforehand, and there are also guided tours for those keen on soaking up all the music knowledge possible.

There's a lot to learn here, so you'll want to give yourself ample time to explore all of the unique exhibitions that showcase Detroit's history. In addition to its permanent exhibitions like America's Motor City and Detroit: The "Arsenal of Democracy," it has changing exhibitions that spotlight famous musicians from the area. Currently, the Motor City Music exhibition has a feature on Mary Wilson, the founding member of the Motown group The Supremes. The Detroit Historical Museum is located in Midtown Detroit's Cultural Center Historic District (5401 Woodward Avenue).

You won't be seeing Taylor Swift grace the stage of the Fox Theatre, though she may have when she was just starting out! The Fox Theatre, located at 2211 Woodward Avenue, is an iconic live music venue in Detroit, hosting artists that span across all genres. It's considered the city's crown jewel, and it always features a collection of must-see award-winning Broadway musicals, holiday favorites, and interactive stage shows.

If you're flexible with your travel dates, timing your trip with the Detroit Jazz Festival is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's music scene. Attendees can listen to the smooth sounds of dozens of artists who will take over the stages at Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park in Detroit.

The Marble Bar is a popular gathering place for EDM junkies as the industrial-hip venue has indoor and outdoor spaces where DJs come to play. Folks looking to dance the night away to entrancing beats that will vibrate through their entire body should plan a stop at this live music joint. Upcoming events can be found on the bar's website, and tickets are required for entry to the shows.

Yes, you read that correctly -- Detroit's Masonic Temple is now a music venue, thanks to Jack White of the White Stripes. The world's largest masonic temple was supposed to be demolished, but Jack White saw its potential, so it continues to serve several masonic organizations, along with hosting shows.

This waterfront amphitheater is the best place to soak up some live hip-hop, jazz, or pop music during the warmer months. The outdoor spot boasts 5,000 seats that face the Detroit River. Tickets to all of the shows can be pre-purchased online on the outdoor venue's website. If you're thinking of attending a concert last minute, there is a box office onsite that is open before the show begins.

Detroit's underground music scene is unlike any other -- the musical city is much more than its Motown! The TV Lounge is a staple for those who enjoy the Detroit techno scene, as it brings in both local superstars and international artists. The venue is large and has three main stages, one inside and two outside. The genres played at The TV Lounge are as diverse as the people in the crowd, ranging in style and age. In addition to electronic dance music, R&B and hip-hop artists are also known to grace the stage at this late-night hot spot. Cover or admission depends on the event, and it's located at 2548 Grand River Avenue.

If you're looking for an interesting daytime activity that doesn't require any dancing or singing along, the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum is a great option. On Friday evenings, the museum stays open for live music, tours, and even the occasional art-making workshop. The Detroit Institute of Arts Museum is located at 5200 Woodward Avenue and is known to have one of the largest art collections in the United States.

You'll get much more than live music when you visit this lively, upscale lounge. Here, you will find jazz performances from local artists, cabaret and burlesque shows, comedy nights, and a selection of cocktails that can be enjoyed while you socialize. There is also a DJ playing until 2 a.m. if you want to make the very most of your time in Detroit. Willis Show Bar accepts reservations with a credit card, and tickets are required for the evenings of scheduled events.

While the domed indoor stadium is mostly used for American football (go, Lions, go!), it's also known to host a mean music concert. The massive stadium seats 65,000, so if you want a more intimate music experience, Marble Bar, the Sanctuary, or Willis Show Bar might be a better choice. Ford Field can be found at 2000 Brush Street. A full list of events and tickets can be found on the stadium's website.

This hip joint is considered one of Metro Detroit's most beloved concert and show venues. It has been hosting memorable local and national acts since 2014, spanning across genres like EDM, rap, hardcore punk, and jazz. The beautiful venue can be found in the growing historic city of Hamtramck, and when the performance is over, guests can use its pool tables and arcade machines. The Sanctuary Detroit boasts a full bar with prices that aren't terrifying, as well as state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems that elevate every live performance. Tickets are required for each event, which happens around five times per week.

Previous guests claim that Aretha's Jazz Cafe is truly a hidden gem for music lovers, especially those who love jazz and blues. The quaint, laidback club hosts live music and poetry performances. It offers an incredibly intimate experience that some of the larger spots can't provide when superstar acts visit the city. Aretha's Jazz Cafe serves up a selection of creative and traditional cocktails, along with deli sandwiches for those who dance up an appetite. This hidden gem jazz club can be found in the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts at 350 Madison Street. Tickets are required.

Cliff Bell's claim to fame is that the New York Times once called the venue "the place to be in Detroit!" It's a must-visit venue for travelers who prefer music that's considered off-the-beaten-path -- the opposite of mainstream. The swanky spot features Art Deco decor, providing a unique backdrop for the live cabaret and jazz performances. What's even more impressive than the atmosphere is that Cliff Bell's has been operating since 1935. It was named after a gangster from the Prohibition era who encouraged drinking among Detroit locals when it was frowned upon. You can catch a show at Cliff Bell's almost every night of the week, and tickets are required for admission.

Here's another superb, smaller venue for those wanting to groove to smooth jazz tunes in a more intimate setting. Baker's Keyboard Lounge is filled with a mere 99 seats and Art Deco decor. The swanky jazz club is the longest continuously running venue of its kind in Detroit, as it's been hosting performances since 1933. On the menu, you'll find a selection of cocktails and soul food like fried pork chop, fried chicken, meatloaf, and catfish. No visit to Baker's Keyboard Lounge is complete without a big slice of cheesecake or peach cobbler for dessert. It's located at 20510 Livernois Avenue, and tickets aren't required to listen to the jazz performers -- you'll just have to stay a while and eat!

This 550-capacity venue has been around for more than three decades and can be found in Detroit's Majestic Theater. The bowling alley turned live music joint is located on the top floor of the theater and has a dance floor and pool tables for guests to enjoy. In terms of music, Magic Stick usually hosts alternative rock and garage bands. In the summer, you can sip on an ice-cold beverage on the rooftop patio. Tickets are required for the shows at this venue.

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