Live music in Albany County, NY

At Lark Street Tavern in Albany, this open mic highlights live music and neighborhood talent. Singers and songwriters take the stage while the room fills with guitars, shared conversations, and an easygoing atmosphere.

All Them Witches brings 21 Shows / 21 Days to Empire Live Albany, with Emma Ruth Rundle appearing solo. Admission is for ages 16 and up with a valid photo ID. A valid photo ID is required for all attendees to enter, unless they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is at least 21 years old.

Los Lobos brings its five-decade legacy to The Egg, drawing on a catalog built through relentless touring and prolific recording. The band has played more than 100 shows a year across 50 years, traveling millions of miles to perform for millions, while releasing 17 studio albums, seven live records, three compilations, two EPs, two DVDs, and contributing to over 40 of their friends’ projects. Their work has been recognized with four Grammy Awards, an Austin City Limits Hall of Fame induction, the ALMA Ritchie Valens Pioneer Award, honors from the NEA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Congressional recognitions, and numerous city proclamations. Rooted in East L.A., their sound blends soul, R&B, and doo wop with the currents of blues, jazz, and rock and roll, and it shines with influences from Mexican and Latin American traditions including Nortena and rancheras, bolero and cumbia, as well as son huasteco and son jarocho. Their songs have carried these traditions around the world, introducing audiences across continents to the richness of Aztlan and the spirit of La Bamba. The lineup features founding members David Hidalgo, Louie Perez Jr., Cesar Rosas, Conrad Lozano, and Steve Berlin, whose shared commitment on and off stage pairs musical craft with efforts for peace and justice.

Entry is restricted to guests ages 16 and up with a valid photo ID. Anyone younger than 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is at least 21 years old. All attendees will be required to present valid photo identification at the door, so plan ahead to ensure a smooth check-in. Tickets will be available to the general public during a designated on-sale period.

Monster Prom at Lark Hall brings a Halloween celebration from Shannon Tehya and Keegan James as they wrap their States in Between tour. The evening spotlights creativity and self-expression, encouraging everyone to embrace their quirkiest looks with featured performances, a costume contest, and a night of dancing. Expect a mix of spooky grooves, singalongs, and favorites from the artists’ recent projects, with a $10 cover. Keegan James, an Albany-based queer pop artist, shares candid stories of navigating life and relationships in your 20s with a warm, expressive voice. Shannon Tehya leads a dynamic five-piece known for joyful, uplifting shows that blend pop, funk, jazz, and RnB, moving from soul-stirring originals to fresh spins on popular hits. The band features Dane Jennings on drums, Hunter Frost on vocals, guitar, and bass, Peter Roderick on vocals and guitar, and Rachel Costello on vocals. This Albany, NY gathering celebrates community, music, and playful Halloween spirit.

Karaoke night at Lark St Tavern features six large screens that display lyrics and a clear, room-filling sound system. Sign-in takes place before performances begin, and arriving early helps secure a spot on the list.

A relaxed and welcoming community gathering centers on kirtan, chanting, music, and meaningful connection, with a focus on good energy, inner peace, and well-being. The evening starts with a casual meet-and-greet, then flows into group chanting, singing, and shared music in a respectful and supportive atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to bring a cushion, yoga mat, or blanket for comfortable seating, wear comfortable clothing, and, if desired, bring instruments such as drums, harmonium, guitar, or shakers. Everyone is asked to be considerate of others to help create a peaceful environment, and to arrive with an open heart and genuine spirit. Weather permitting, some gatherings may take place outdoors in a park setting. All experience levels are welcome to chant, sing, relax, connect, and enjoy the shared energy.

Texas Hippie Coalition takes the stage at Empire Live Albany. Admission is open to guests 16 and older with a valid photo ID. Everyone will be asked to show a valid photo ID to enter, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is 21 or older.

A new jazz jam is taking shape at The Lark St Tavern in Albany, led by internationally recognized bassist Tarik Shah. He has shared the stage with jazz greats including Betty Carter, Abbey Lincoln, Pharoah Sanders, Ahmad Jamal, Gregory Porter, and the Duke Ellington Orchestra, and brings that experience to an open session for the community. Musicians at any level can sit in, pick up new ideas, and take part in the music. Listeners can enjoy an authentic jam along with food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

An open mic for musicians at Black Bear Inn in Watervliet offers a ready-to-play setup. A house band is on hand to support performers, and a complete backline is available. Participants add their names to a sign-up sheet to manage the order of performances.