If you think of live music in Barcelona the first thing that probably comes to mind is its many epic summer music festivals, such as Primavera Sound at the end of May, Sónar in June and Cruïlla in July. Throughout the year you’ll find all sorts of festivals that pay tribute to many different genres – such as the Barcelona International Jazz Festival, the Guitar Festival, or even the Barcelona Festival of Gospel Music.
Although there are fewer live music venues than there used to be in Barcelona 10 years ago there’s still plenty happening around town, from stadium gigs in Montjuïc to more intimate clubs and basement bars. Check out our guide to this year’s top live concerts in Barcelona and their venues.
Superstar pop and rock stars at Palau Sant Jordi
This is Barcelona’s most prestigious large venue, located in Montjuïc and built as part of the facilities for the 1992 Olympic Games. All the top stars that include Barcelona on their world tours will have sparked up this venue at some point. This year we still have some very big names indeed to look forward to.
- On the 13th June Miley Cyrus comes to Barcelona brings her Bangerz World Tour 2014 to
Barcelona for a hot night of pure pop. The Hannah Montana star will be promoting her 4th album, so expect to hear all the hits including bestseller “We Can’t Stop.” - After the summer Kylie is back in town! Yes, on the 14th October Kylie Minogue and her Kiss Me Once Tour touch down in the heart of Barcelona. Any international fans out there looking for a good excuse for a Barcelona (long) weekend break?
- Another big name in town will be the irrepressible Lady Gaga, on the 8th November. Fans can expect to be dazzled by the creative set designs and incredible costumes. She can’t really be wearing that? Oh yes, Gaga can.
- Classic pop heavyweight Elton John will perform a predictably sold-out gig on the 6th December. He’s sold over 300 million records in his 50 year career, and if you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, and in Barcelona on this day, then get yourself down the front!
Live music at Sala Apolo
This is one of the most popular live music venues in Barcelona, conveniently located near about 10 minutes walk from the Ramblas in Parallel, on Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 113. Sala Apolo has a varied agenda, with many different styles of music served up by an eclectic selection of promoters for their distinctive crowds.
- Looking for some hip-hop in Barcelona? New Jersy hip-hop is represented on the 4th July by the Lords of the Underground, who are synonymous with the golden age of hip-hop back in the 90s. Their debut album “Here Come The Lords” was released in 1993… remember the single “Chief Rocka”? Of course you do!
- If you’re up for a more traditional shindig, get yourself down to the Sala Apolo on the 24th July for the 3rd Flamenco Festival. Costi el Chato present their show “Zambreando”, which means party, and also refers to the flamenco dances that were popular in the Sacramonte gypsy district of Granada. Olé!
- For some of the finest neo-folk and indie that’s happening right now don’t miss Angel Olsen’s exclusive set on the 30th Sept. Think a cross between Joni Mitchell and one-time collaborator Bonnie “Prince” Billy and you’re on track.
- James Blake presents his unique blend of soul, pop and the latest electronic wizardry on the 22nd August. The British artist will be introducing his second album “Overgrown”.
Live music venues around Barcelona
And here’s a few more of our favourite live music venues:
- The Quiet Man Irish pub has live bands every Friday and Saturday. You’ll find innovative cover bands and remarkable tribute bands, as well as singer-songwriters and bands that perform their own original materials. Great pub food and all the sports on big TV screens, so you could start your evening early here! It’s just off the Ramblas, on C/ Marqués de Barberà 11.
El Monasterio is the basement club below Café Ibiza, at the bottom of Via Laietana. It’s like stepping into another world, with its soft lighting, dusty brick walls and cavernous feel. They organize regular blues jam sessions, as well as promoting an agenda of the freshest up-and-coming pop, rock and indie bands in Barcelona. Highly recommended! Paseo Isabel II, 4.
- The Harlem Jazz Club is one of the most authentic live music venues in Barcelona. Bang in the middle of the Gothic district, it has tons of character, and has certainly seen countless characters pass through its doors. Look out for their special Cuban music showcases, or world music nights, as well as a strong cartel of jazz, blues and swing sessions. Carrer de Comtessa de Sobradiel 8
If you’re looking for live music in Barcelona check out some of these suggested venues, and look out for flyers and posters around town that will keep you in the loop with what’s happening right here, right now.
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