Music infiltrates all of our lives differently. It moves and inspires us in unexpected ways. Makers and consumers of music both appreciate the powerful effect it can have, and it drives them to seek it out in whatever new shape it takes. Manchester hosts a colorful array of venues, shops, and studios that feed the soul of any music lover.
Dance your heart out or take in the talents of Richmond’s own musicians, drag performers, poets, and more. There is a wonderful world of art in Manchester, so whether you’re looking for your next gig or you just want a taste of the scene, let this be your guide.
Nickelus F.
Inspiration is Never Far
This month is all about music in Manchester, and it just so happens that Nickelus F, a professional copywriter and rapper with decades of experience in the music industry, is a lifelong Richmonder and Manchester resident. We sat down with him to discuss the state of the music scene in Richmond and find out how the city affects his relationship with his craft.
“In terms of being an artist in Manchester, I find the area inspiring, like being down by the river. I have a really good view from my sixth-floor apartment of the water, the train coming in, you know, the bridges, the buildings, and so just the view is inspiring.”
But Nickelus is inspired by more than the local landscape. He loves the music scene itself.
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But Nickelus is inspired by more than the local landscape. He loves the music scene itself.
“We don’t have a lot of big infrastructure, like we don’t have any big sports teams or the big influences that create built-in opportunity, like a bigger city, like New York or Atlanta or LA, or something like that. So everybody here has this DIY mindset, like we’re going to get it how we get it, you know, and present something unique to the world. So I think it’s soulful, and it’s organic.”
Artists have a way of making space wherever they find themselves. It’s their will to create something that motivates them to start from scratch and see where it leads. And as someone who’s been in the Richmond scene for 25 years, Nickelus F is no stranger to forging his own path.
“I look at the scope of what everybody’s doing, and then I just try to come up with a way to make something that’s completely me.”
Nickelus F.
He is someone who truly loves music and is always trying to push himself and his audience to challenge their expectations of what the next project can sound like.
“I think right now, it’s just about creating a certain feeling and being descriptive, and just thinking outside of the box when it comes to the writing.”
The most powerful move an artist can make is returning to their creative roots with the wisdom they’ve cultivated after years of experience, and exploring a blank canvas.
“I’ve been reverting back to my earlier tactics of when I first started creating music, you know, like going back and getting old pieces of equipment, moving away from an overly digital and processed sound, and more of just an organic, in-the-moment, sort of approach to production and recording. Not overthinking it, not overproducing it, not overmixing it, to keep it raw and put it out.”
Nickelus is constantly trying to push the envelope forward for the sake of the art and inspire a new generation of musicians.
“We’re coming into an age where there are AI artists and stuff like that. And I’m not going to try and shut it down, but I would hope that people will understand that music coming from human beings who have different lived experiences in life, creating music from, you know, a first-person standpoint, that’s special.”
Talking with him instills hope for the future of the industry and the Richmond music scene. As long as there are musicians with a story to tell, they will fight tooth and nail to tell it on their terms.
“Music is a gift, and we should appreciate it, especially coming from real artists.”
Speaking of real artists, Manchester venues host all kinds of amazing shows with spectacular local talent.
Basic City Beer Co. Events
In the past we’ve detailed Basic City Beer Co.’s delicious ales and their monthly partnership with the Richmond Makers Market, but there is more than meets the eye to this local brewery. The event room down the hall from the main bar is home to local music acts, drag shows, and even games of burlesque bingo.
Curtis Lee started as a bartender at Basic City Beer Co.’s Richmond branch until he and his wife purchased the location in February of 2024, marking a new era for the Manchester brewery.
“It’s so much more than beer. It’s like when Domino’s dropped the ‘pizza.’ It’s Basic City everything. [We’re] family-friendly, dog-friendly, people-friendly, so I think we’re kind of a hidden gem.”
With a consistent variety of happenings on their calendar, you might stop by for a cold one and find yourself in the middle of Rock Band karaoke night. Expect the unexpected when you come to Basic City. They even had The Rainbow Sound Collective, an improvisational comedy band, perform in July.
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“Last time, they did a song about Francine the cat from Lowe’s, and it got a bunch of views and upvotes on Reddit.”
Not only popular with local residents, but it seems performers from all over Richmond are clamoring for stage time at Basic City.
“Rap shows, bands, everything. People email us pretty much every day asking to use the space because we’ve got so much room.”
Perfect for entertainers and audience members alike; come, support talented artists and enjoy a great night out in this intimate and eclectic space. Feel the energy in the room as the lights go out and the performers take the stage. You’ll be gripped with excitement every minute, and leave feeling invigorated by this unique exhibition of Richmond’s rising stars. And, hey, maybe you’ll win bingo.
Shows at Gold Lion Community Cafe
Gold Lion is more than just a delicious vegan Indian cafe. They put on some spectacular drag shows that will leave you speechless. Sip a mango margarita in the morning as you sit with your pals at a showstopping drag brunch, waving your one-dollar bills like they’re on fire. Or catch one of their Drag Story Hours for a little family-friendly fun. You might expect to see lots of drag queens in their showroom, but the Gold Lion Community Cafe also puts on drag king shows full of celebrity male impersonations. And who wouldn’t want to see Elvis back on stage? Visit Gold Lion’s website to see their schedule, and remember to bring cash for the performers. These all-stars put hours of hard work into their routines, and their dedication deserves recognition.
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Benchtop Brewing Events
If you’re a poet
Looking for an audience
We’ve got one for you!
Is it too cliché to say we all have poetry inside of us? Well, it doesn’t make it any less true. We’ve all crammed our Notes App full of pretty phrases or passing poetic thoughts we might return to at some point. If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, then share your scribbled beauty with the beholders at Benchtop Brewing’s Poetry Open Mic. No worries if you don’t want all eyes on you; just grab a drink and appreciate a night of one-of-a-kind storytelling. And if you’re more into the music scene, Benchtop often hosts shows featuring local and touring singer-songwriters. Clapping or snapping, you’ll be glued to your seat.
Hosted by River City Poets, the poetry open mic gives you the opportunity to express yourself through the performance of your own spoken word. Benchtop Brewing and River City Poets serve to provide a safe space for poets to speak their minds and strengthen their voices. This supportive environment is perfect for anyone looking to receive feedback from other artists or those simply looking for a “spotlight to shine in.” Follow Benchtop Brewing on Instagram for updates on upcoming open mics!
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Allianz Amphitheater
Richmond’s new riverfront amphitheater kicked off its very first season this June and is already drawing huge crowds. Allianz Ampitheater knows you’re hungry for more than quality entertainment, so the venue has partnered with local food and drink vendors to provide showgoers with delicious concession options. knows you’re hungry for more than quality entertainment, so the venue has partnered with local food and drink vendors to provide showgoers with delicious concession options. Located across the canal from Brown’s Island at Tredegar, your breathtaking view of the James River will only be upstaged by the Allianz’s incredible acts. So, come to Ironclad Sports Bar and Grill, or any one of the great restaurants in Manchester for a pre-show party before walking over the T. Tyler Potterfield Bridge to get to the amphitheater. This past spring, Belle Isle Moonshine hosted pre-game parking lot parties before the amphitheater shows too! Check out the Allianz’s website for upcoming shows and frequently asked questions. Rock on, Richmond!
Don of Pop Studios
Picture this: your band has been on the scene for several years, booking bigger venues and growing your audience. A few name changes and a couple drummers later, the hard work is finally paying off. Chester Man & Fan Boy are finally ready to record that star-making debut single and spread your sound to the furthest corners of the internet. But what do you do?
Music production has never been more accessible than in the 21st century, but the barrier to entry for learning how to produce truly quality songs is still fairly high. That’s where Don of Pop Recording Studio comes in.
Comprised of the music-loving couple, Lawrence and Emily, Don of Pop is a recording studio that professionally mixes and masters tracks for any project you might be working on. Lawrence got his start in Denver, Colorado, before moving to LA to continue honing his abilities to write, record, produce, and perform music.
With a range of services and pricing options, you can easily find a package that fits your needs, whether you want studio time or you need help mixing a track. Lawrence will even write with you. He and Emily just want to do everything possible to aid your creative process and see your vision come to life.
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If you love Manchester or music, or both, there’s no doubt something here piqued your interest. This neighborhood is full of people who express themselves in amazingly unique ways. The best part is, there are infinite chances to try your hand at getting in front of a crowd, and even more chances to watch. Whatever your prerogative, let the rhythm lead you to Manchester.
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*Photos by Dave Parrish