(Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZYAIzL4B9s)
Did you know how many great local music venues are located nearby in Columbia, SC and the popular local artists from right here?
In fact, we’re pretty proud of South Carolina’s fame as the birthplace of beach music, a dance called the “Shag”, and also the Charleston. Break those out at the next party and impress your friends with some SC history.
Even closer to home, we love our local music here in Columbia, and there are some great options right next door. Here are a few of our favorite local music venues and artists.
Local Live Musicians
Jon Rooks
This talented artist is a complete one-man show. He weaves together beats on guitar, piano, vocals, harmonica, and drums to produce an incredible combination of acoustic funkiness. He plays a wide range of music, including his own original songs, and every performance is amazing!
Website: http://jonrooksmusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonrooksmusic/
Terence Young and The Finesse Band
A native of Elko, SC, Terence Young lives right here in Columbia, SC. As an incredible smooth jazz and R&B artist, he’s played with top names nationwide. Look for him and his group, The Finesse Band, a six-person dance/party band with lots of energy. His electrifying guitar performance is not to be missed!
Website: https://www.terenceyoungmusic.com/
Website: http://www.thefinesseband.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terenceyoungjazz/
The Reggie Sullivan Band
This band tours throughout the Southeast and often stops at some of our favorite local venues here in Columbia. They have a fresh twist and an exciting sound that’s guaranteed to leave you with a good feeling. These artists combine vocals, guitar, and drums into some great local tunes.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReggieSullivanBand/
Popular Local Music Venues
Music Farm
We love the Music Farm! This venue originated in Charleston, South Carolina and was opened by musician Kevin Wadley, who wanted a venue centered around the music, not around being just another nightclub. It quickly earned a great reputation in the Southeast, and they opened our beloved location in Columbia on Senate Street in 2014.
Website: www.musicfarm.com/
Township Auditorium
Celebrating its 87th birthday this year, “South Carolina’s Showplace” is an amazing live music venue in downtown Columbia. Many amazing live shows have happened here, including legends such as Elvis, Johnny Cash, and James Brown. It’s even listed in the National Register of Historic Places — how about that for vintage music!
Website: http://www.thetownship.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTownshipAuditorium/
New Brookland Tavern
This bar and tavern is in West Columbia on State Street. It’s Columbia’s oldest continuously running music venue and is famous for having live music 365 days a year! They’ve hosted plenty of big names — such as Toro y Moi, Flyleaf, and Against Me! — so you’re sure to always see a great live show here.
Website: http://www.newbrooklandtavern.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NBTavern/
Colonial Life Area
We saved the biggest for last. Colonial Life Arena is Columbia’s premier arena and entertainment venue. This place hosts today’s leading musicians that tour through the Southeast. Opened in 2002, this is the place to go for the biggest concerts and live music showcases in Columbia.
Website: https://www.coloniallifearena.com/
Other local music venues nearby: