Hi Tone Cafe on Cleveland Street in midtown Memphis is the premier live music venue since 1999, with a 400-capacity room and a 21-plus downstairs lounge.
Tip: Open seven days from 17:00. The downstairs lounge runs comedy and DJ nights.
South Main Sounds at 550 S Main in downtown Memphis is an intimate listening room for singer-songwriters and acoustic acts, established in 2015 in the South.
Tip: Small room, book ahead. Reservations through the website; show schedule online.
Alfred's on Beale at 197 Beale St in Memphis is a long-running Beale Street music venue and bar with rooftop patio, live blues and bands and a kitchen.
Tip: Cover charge on weekend nights. The rooftop patio is the seat on warm evenings; live music from 21:00.
Paula and Raiford's Disco at 14 S 2nd St in downtown Memphis is the city's most-loved 1970s-style disco, mirror balls, vinyl and the Raiford family hosting.
Tip: Open Thursday to Saturday. Cash bar; arrive after 23:00 for the right crowd.