Watch or perform; find ways to express yourself through music, dance, and poetry.
Looking for live music in Richmond? Manchester has quickly become one of the city's best neighborhoods to catch local bands, drag brunches, poetry nights, open mics, and concerts along the James River. Whether you're performing or just looking for your next night out, here's where to tune into Manchester.
Manchester's creative energy isn't just found on its stages, it's found in the people who call the neighborhood home.
Lifelong Richmonder, Manchester resident, and rapper Nickelus F has spent more than two decades building a career in music. We sat down with him to talk about what makes Richmond's music scene so special."In terms of being an artist in Manchester, I find the area inspiring... the water, the trains, the bridges, the buildings. The view is inspiring."
But for Nickelus, it's more than the scenery. "Everybody here has this DIY mindset. We're going to get it how we get it and present something unique to the world. I think it's soulful, and it's organic."
That independent spirit has shaped his own approach to making music."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."
Lately, he's been returning to a more raw, organic style of recording while encouraging listeners to value the human side of music in an increasingly digital world."Music is a gift, and we should appreciate it, especially coming from real artists."
That same creative spirit can be found throughout Manchester, where breweries, cafés, recording studios, and performance spaces give local artists countless opportunities to share their work.
Where to See Live Music
Allianz Amphitheater
Allianz Ampitheater, Richmond’s new riverfront amphitheater, 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, head to 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. Check out the Allianz’s website for upcoming shows and frequently asked questions. Rock on, Richmond!
Basic City Beer Co. Events
Basic City Beer Co. is much more than a brewery. On any given night you might stumble into live music, drag performances, burlesque bingo, or even Rock Band karaoke. The spacious event room has become one of Manchester's go-to venues for local entertainment.
“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.
Benchtop Brewing Events
Benchtop Brewing is one of Manchester's best places to experience Richmond's creative community. Their recurring Poetry Open Mic welcomes writers of all experience levels, while live performances from local and touring singer-songwriters keep the calendar full of music.
Hosted by River City Poets, the poetry open mic gives you the opportunity to express yourself through the performance of your own spoken word. Follow Benchtop Brewing on Instagram for updates on upcoming open mics!
Drag, Brunch & Live Entertainment
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.
Record Your Own Music
Don of Pop Studios
Ever wanted to record your own music? Whether you're cutting your first demo or polishing your latest release, Don of Pop Recording Studio gives local musicians a professional place to bring their ideas to life.
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.
More Things to Do in Manchester
Plan your next night out in Manchester by exploring Venture Richmond's Events Calendar. From brewery shows and drag performances to riverfront concerts, you'll always find something worth seeing.
