Lafayette's Music Room in Overton Square Memphis runs diverse live bands seven nights a week plus Southern food, in a vintage indoor-outdoor music club reopened in 2013.
Tip: Reservations on Resy or OpenTable. Patio seats face the Overton Square plaza.
Address: 2119 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Hi Tone Cafe in midtown Memphis on Cleveland Street is the city's premier live music venue since 1999, with shows in 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 Main district.
Tip: Small room, book ahead. Reservations through the website; show schedule online.
Alfred's on Beale at 197 Beale St in Memphis is a 35-year music venue and bar with rooftop patio, live blues and bands and a kitchen that runs late.
Tip: Cover charge on weekend nights. The rooftop patio is the seat on warm evenings; live music from 21:00.
Growlers on Poplar Avenue in midtown Memphis runs live music seven nights a week from local rock, blues and soul acts, a midtown alternative to Beale Street's tourist run.
Tip: Open daily from 17:00. Tickets at the door; check the calendar for touring acts.
Purple Haze Nightclub in downtown Memphis on Lt George W Lee Avenue runs the city's largest dance floor, with DJ nights, hip-hop and R&B until 03:00.
Tip: Friday and Saturday peak. Bottle service on the upper levels.
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.