Live music in Independence, MO

Friday nights at Nirvana bring a no cover double header hosted by Crit & Ale, starting with team trivia and rolling into karaoke. Trivia unfolds in five ten-question rounds that change week to week. The opener draws on category ideas submitted by players the week before, the next round sticks to a classic theme, the third uses visual prompts, the fourth introduces an experimental, luck-tinged twist, and the finale spotlights music. Play with a group or go solo, with a format that is competitive yet welcoming. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams. After trivia, karaoke takes the spotlight for the rest of the night. Add your name to sing or relax and take in the performances, and enjoy a full bar with signature cocktails.

A relaxed night out with friends awaits as KJ Rach gets the karaoke party started at Tom's Bar and Grill.

Friday nights get an upgrade with high energy karaoke at Nirvana Coffee & Games, brought by Crit and Ale. All kinds of singers are welcome, whether you prefer solo spotlights, big Broadway moments, emo anthems, or team efforts with friends. A professional setup delivers clear, powerful sound, and the song selection stretches across decades and genres. The crowd stays upbeat and encouraging, while coffee, drinks, and games keep the momentum going. Gather your crew, warm up those vocals, and take the mic for solos, duets, or group numbers. Costumes are invited, bold key changes are celebrated, and the focus stays on fun, good vibes, and great songs.

At Erin’s Pub in Independence, Missouri, this karaoke night pairs singing with a DJ and features Beats by Smoov alongside HOT MICS Entertainment. Guests can enjoy food and drinks while taking the mic in a lively pub setting.

Celebrate American roots music at the Independence Roots Music Festival on the grounds of the historic Bingham-Waggoner Estate. You’ll hear a lineup of regional acts playing blues, folk, bluegrass, and more across stages on the north side and on the estate’s porches. Enjoy food and drinks, and take advantage of free parking, bring-your-own lawn chair or blanket seating, and all-ages festivities.

The Saturday Outlaw Concert Series features live music from area bands along with burgers, hot dogs, and ice cold beverages. Attendees can test ride in-stock models with no obligation, as long as they have proper riding gear and a valid motorcycle license. The event welcomes riders and non-riders alike and highlights the Outlaw way of life.

Live music returns to Nirvana with Jason Vivone & The Billy Bats. Led by composer, multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist Jason Vivone, a leading figure in Kansas City blues and roots, the band weaves American styles such as blues, soul, gospel, old-time medicine show sounds, and country into one performance. Nirvana offers a wide selection of food, and cocktails are available to enjoy while listening.

The Stray Cats take the stage at Uptown Theater, joined by Midnight Cowgirls. Seating is reserved. Ticket access includes a public onsale, along with artist, Spotify, and local presales.

At Tom's Bar and Grill, Chad opens the floor for karaoke and lets you sing your favorite songs. Pick the tracks you love and take the mic for a lively round of singalongs.

The event focuses on Elton John songs from seven iconic albums, bringing together a selection of tracks that showcase that body of work.

At Legacy Park Amphitheater, Elton Dan & The Rocket Band delivers a high-energy tribute to Elton John, channeling the sound and spirit of seven landmark albums from the 1970s and 1980s. Formed in 2015, the group has played more than 700 shows across 38 states. Expect crowd favorites such as I’m Still Standing, Philadelphia Freedom, Crocodile Rock, and Rocket Man, with the possibility of a duet like Don’t Go Breaking My Heart, deeper cuts, and band picks including Madman Across the Water, Levon, Tiny Dancer, and Pinball Wizard. Food and beverages will be available from Chick-Fil-A, Bee Ray’s, Big Mama’s Pancakes, and Embrace the Grape. Venue policies include no firearms or weapons, umbrellas, outside food, wallet chains, pocket knives, fireworks, baseballs, footballs, tennis balls, coolers, cameras or video cameras, or scooters, bicycles, and skateboards. Outside drinks are limited to water only, one sealed plastic bottle of 1 liter or less per person, with no soda, alcohol, juice, or energy drinks permitted. Smoking and tobacco use are allowed only in a designated area inside the venue, and smokable marijuana products are prohibited by city ordinance. Tents, grills, and tailgating are not allowed.

Settle in for an evening of soulful sounds and blues from Cocoa Marie, whose powerful range and heartfelt delivery revive cherished classics alongside fresh, modern grooves. Whether you lean toward silky soul, gritty blues, or simply appreciate great live music, this performance is crafted to linger long after the final song.

Dogzilla takes the stage at Stuey McBrew's for a live music show.

Enjoy a Concerts in the Park performance at Rotary Park in Blue Springs, Missouri featuring The Lucky Us Band, part of a nine-Sunday summer series of free live music. Pack a blanket or lawn chairs and a picnic basket, then take in their Country Rock set. This concert is presented with support from Fike and Tandem Paving.

Englewood Arts provides private, one-on-one instruction in acoustic and electric guitar, bass guitar, piano for beginners through intermediate players, drums, and music theory. Musicians at any level are welcome, from first-time learners to intermediate and advanced students, in a friendly setting for all ages with a recommended minimum age of 6. Parents are invited to observe lessons. Sessions run 30 minutes and are priced at $30.

East Forty hosts Eastern Jackson County's original open mic night, welcoming both performers and listeners. Take the stage or settle in to enjoy local talent. Happy hour specials include $1 off all draft beers, $6 select cocktails, $2 off all pizzas, and $6 appetizers. Performers receive a buy one get one free offer on their first draft beer or non alcoholic beverage.

Howard Mahan & Friends appear at B.B.'s Lawnside BarB-Q with featured guests Adam Watson, TJ Erhardt, and Chase McRoy. The appearance is part of a regular series at the venue.

Karaoke Night in Lee’s Summit brings a lively mix of music, laughs, and memorable moments. Hosted weekly by Martell Love, the evening welcomes both first-time singers and seasoned regulars to take the mic in a friendly setting. A happy hour with drink specials is available beforehand to set the tone for the night. Expect an upbeat crowd, plenty of sing-along energy, and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps people returning week after week.

At "The V," musicians fill a spacious hall with jazz and rock favorites in a jam that welcomes both performers and listeners. There is room to relax or step onto the dance floor. The post lounge is open to the public and serves beverages with daily drink specials, and the kitchen offers dinner specials during the jam. While there, guests can check the schedule for other upcoming events. VFW Post 5789 is open to the public and hosts live music in Lee's Summit.

E-Rock hosts a weekly sing-your-heart-out night at Tom's Bar and Grill. This friendly gathering centers on singing and invites anyone who attends to raise their voice and enjoy the music together.

Music Bingo brings a lively game night to Nirvana Coffee & Games, with Crit & Ale hosting a relaxed experience built around songs instead of numbers. Bingo cards are fueled by a playlist that ranges from throwback favorites to current hits, and sharp ears can land prizes. The setting is friendly and easy to step into, yet engaging enough to keep players involved. Enjoy something tasty while you play and let the music lead the way to a win.

At Nirvana Coffee and Games, Music Bingo swaps numbers for songs in a lively game hosted by Crit and Ale. Recognize tracks ranging from nostalgic throwbacks to today’s hits, mark your card, and go for prizes. The setting stays easygoing and upbeat, with great music, full cards, no awkward quiet, and a chance to sip something tasty while you play.