Live music in Hamilton County, OH

A spoken word open mic offering a relaxed reset with laughter and shared creativity. The stage features a full roster of artists sharing original work, welcoming poets, writers, singers, rappers, comedians, speakers, visual artists, actors, and vendors. The flow includes a sign-up list, opening performances at the mic, a break in the middle, then more sets before wrapping up. The gathering centers on a spirit of respect, love, and creativity, with an emphasis on strengthening connections across the artist community. Hosted by Maia Chanel, curated by SoL, also known as Mista STAYonLIT, and presented by Muse Café.

John Scofield, a three-time Grammy recipient, presents Electrospective at Ludlow Garage, casting new light on the funk-driven fusion that has shaped key chapters of his 54-year career. Instead of replaying earlier work as it was recorded, he reimagines music from his Blue Matter, Uberjam, and AGoGo eras and adds fresh pieces inspired by that sound. The band features drummer and producer Adam Deitch of Lettuce, keyboardist Larry Goldings associated with Scary Goldings and James Taylor, and bassist Oteil Burbridge known for work with Dead & Co., Tedeschi Trucks Band, and The Allman Brothers Band. Together they dive into tight, groove-forward performances with seasoned precision and natural chemistry.

At Cinful Eats, music lovers can dive into a lively spin on bingo built around the songs you know. Hits spanning old favorites to today’s charts stand in for numbers as you fill your card, hum along, and try to be first to call bingo. The format is upbeat and beginner friendly, featuring two hour-long rounds that give you twice the opportunity to take home a prize. Each game awards gift cards of $5, $5, and $10. Whether you are a music fan or simply there for the vibes, it offers a fun, social way to spend the evening in Cincinnati.

At Taft Theatre, the 1984 film Ghostbusters is presented on a large HD screen while an orchestra performs the score live in sync with the movie. Hear music by Academy Award-winning composer Elmer Berstein played on stage as the film unfolds for a concert-style screening. The venue enforces a clear bag policy, and full rules and prohibited items are listed on the theatre’s website. Please note there are no elevators, and access to balcony seating requires climbing stairs.

Pete Papania brings a mellow set to Muse, featuring live selections from the American songbook. The program unfolds in a relaxed setting with food and a welcoming atmosphere.

At Caffè Vivace in Cincinnati, saxophonist Rick VanMatre performs with No Rules, joined by Rusty Burge on vibraphone, Kim Pensyl on piano, Aaron Jacobs on bass, and John Taylor on drums. The ensemble delivers forward-looking original jazz alongside distinctive interpretations of classic standards, highlighting writing and improvisation that balance power and sensitivity. VanMatre has appeared in clubs, concert halls, and symphonic settings across the United States, Europe, and Asia, and Fanfare magazine has praised him as an exceptional improviser and composer. In Cincinnati he has been featured as a soloist with the Cincinnati Symphony pops and led the Jazz Studies Department at the College-Conservatory of Music, performing and conducting extensively. His honors include being named Best Jazz Musician by Cincinnati Magazine and induction into the Cincinnati Jazz Hall of Fame. Venue policies: if a party’s beverage purchases do not reach the required amount, a $15 food and drink minimum is charged per person, per set. Check-in later than 15 minutes after the set begins may result in seats being released with no refund. Tickets are non-refundable, with a one-time transfer to a future performance of equal value available when requested at least 24 hours in advance.

TeamTuneTrivia brings a high-energy Name That Tune challenge to Snows Lakeside Tavern. Enjoy two hours of family-friendly music trivia featuring hits from past and present. Build your crew, compete for prizes and bragging rights, and plan to arrive early to snag a table.

Three-time Grammy Award winner John Scofield brings Electrospective to Ludlow Garage, returning to the funk-laced fusion grooves that shaped standout chapters of his 54-year career. Instead of replaying older tracks exactly as recorded, he reimagines music from his Blue Matter, Uberjam, and A Go Go periods with the perspective that decades provide, and adds new pieces in a similar spirit. He is joined by Adam Deitch on drums and production, Larry Goldings on keyboards, and Oteil Burbridge on bass, with credits that include Lettuce, Scary Goldings, James Taylor, Dead & Co., Tedeschi Trucks Band, and The Allman Brothers Band. The result is a high-energy, groove-forward performance delivered with seasoned precision and clear chemistry.

Texas Hippie Coalition returns to Blue Note Harrison. Zero King opens the show. The pub hosts a pre-party with The New Machine, Clocktowers, and Days Gone By. Tickets are on sale.

The Eagles Project returns to Kuliga Park for the third consecutive year with a complimentary performance at the pavilion. Food and beverages, including chilled beer, will be offered for purchase.

Euge Groove returns to Ludlow Garage to spotlight his latest release, The Phoenix. Known for a smooth sound, melodies that linger, and a signature mix of contemporary jazz, R&B, pop, and soul, he is widely recognized in the genre. His collaborations span stage and studio with Tina Turner, Tower of Power, Aaron Neville, Huey Lewis, and Joe Cocker. The performance combines new material with longtime favorites for a night of soul-infused grooves, top-tier musicianship, and the distinctive style that has defined his career for more than twenty years.

Memorial Hall OTR hosts a tribute to the Man in Black that focuses on the songs and stories behind Johnny Cash’s enduring legacy. The production features Eric Hofmanis, a vocalist chosen by the Johnny Cash Estate and selected by John Carter Cash to lead “Johnny Cash The Official Concert Experience,” a seven month tour that reached 100 cities across premier stages in the United States and Canada. Presented as a gold standard celebration, the show spans nearly five decades of music, from the Sun Records era of the 1950s to the American Recordings of the 2000s. The performance includes classics like I Walk the Line and Hurt, delivered with a strikingly deep voice and a presence shaped to reflect Cash’s character. Megan Houde appears as June Carter, adding brightness and lift to the stage. Their onstage chemistry echoes the famed partnership, bringing moments of warmth, joy, and lighthearted energy throughout the concert.

Just 2 Howlers performs live at Marty's in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Cincy Ecstatic Dance Flow transforms the studio at Cincinnati Yoga School into a welcoming, substance free space for mindful movement, music, connection, and authentic self expression. The evening opens with an intention setting ceremony and concludes with a relaxing sound bath offered by Sacred Serenity Healer. Complimentary cacao is shared, there is unstructured time before and after to mingle with the community, and during the dance you can browse her herbal offerings or book a brief one on one tarot or Reiki session. The series alternates between family friendly and adults only formats. First Fridays operate by donation, welcome participants ages six and up, and feature a community potluck for anyone who wishes to bring a dish to share. Third Fridays are adults only with a live DJ, with tiered admission of $12 early bird, $16 the week of, and $20 at the door. Payment is accepted by cash, Venmo, Cash App, or card. Everyone is invited to participate regardless of background or dance experience, noting that access to the space involves many stairs. The dance floor has clear guidelines to support a focused and safe experience. The space is sober, shoes stay off the floor, and conversation and phone use are kept outside the dance area. Consent is essential when interacting with others, and respect for the room and community is expected. Bring water, comfortable clothing, an open mind and heart, any flow toys you enjoy, and anything else that helps you feel supported. For First Fridays, a snack or dish to share is optional. Please leave behind substances, glitter or other small loose accessories, glow sticks, strong scents, and any behavior that disregards personal boundaries. Good hygiene is appreciated. Participants are encouraged to move at their own pace, ease tension, find a meditative rhythm, express creativity without choreography or judgment, build confidence, rediscover a sense of play, and connect with others through the shared tradition of communal dance.

4DE makes its debut at The Belle & The Bear, marking its first performance on this stage.

Woodnote is back at Mio's Anderson Pizzeria and Tavern with a performance featuring songs by the Beatles, Byrds, Dylan, The Band, CSNY, Neil Young Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Krauss, and more.

Annie's Music Center, formerly Riverfront Live, hosts The Redemption Tour in Cincinnati featuring headliner Silent Theory with Discrepancies and Sick Century. From Idaho, Silent Theory has become a force in modern hard rock with a thunderous sound, sky-high hooks, and a reputation for high-energy shows, with anthems such as "Fragile Minds Collide," "Watch Me Burn," and "Marionette" fueling a passionate crowd. Discrepancies mix hard-driving riffs with rap-rock swagger and catchy refrains, delivering a set known for tightly controlled chaos. Sick Century turns up the intensity with crushing guitars and an unrelenting pulse that suits a night built for the front row. Three bands share one stage for a loud, raw modern rock experience. A happy hour with drink specials and food is available at the venue.

Open to guests of all ages, this show welcomes everyone. Schedules and support acts may change without notice or refund. Entry requirements can be updated, and purchasing tickets means agreeing to follow the policies in effect at the time. For the most current protocols, check the venue website as the event nears. Ticket access includes several options, with public onsale alongside AFI and Despair Faction artist presales, Live Nation presale, Citi Cardmember presale, and Citi Cardmember Preferred Tickets.

Caffè Vivace in Cincinnati presents an evening with trumpeter and vocalist Jon Lampley, joined by Louis Fouché on alto saxophone, Dave Linard on piano, Barry Stephenson on bass, and Willie B on drums. After more than a decade performing with The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’s house band under Louis Cato and Jon Batiste, Lampley steps forward with Notes To Self, his second solo album, a personal project that pairs reflective songwriting with the joy and communal spirit that define his approach. Produced by Lampley with The Diner team of Jordan Cohen, Clyde Lawrence, and Jonny Koh, along with Michael Thurber, the record explores ambition, optimism, faith, and growth, featuring tracks like "Greener," "JOY," and "Maybe." Known for blending jazz, soul, gospel, and contemporary roots music, Lampley has earned recognition from NPR and The New York Times, co-founded the high-energy ensemble Huntertones, and toured widely with O.A.R. and Lake Street Dive. His sound is shaped by church roots in Akron, studies at The Ohio State University, and years in Brooklyn, drawing inspiration from Roy Hargrove, Louis Armstrong, Sam Cooke, and D’Angelo to create music that favors connection and feel over flash. Venue policies apply. If the total amount of beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum, a $20 food and drink minimum will be charged per person per set. If check-in has not occurred within 15 minutes after the set begins, seats may be resold with no refund. Tickets are non-refundable, with a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value available if requested at least 24 hours before the performance start.

B-SIDES returns to Barnseburg Tavern and Grill in Cincinnati, OH for an evening performance. Enjoy a night of live music as the band takes the stage once again at this venue.

Love is put under a microscope in Mozart’s Così fan tutte, also known as The School for Lovers. Two young officers are convinced their fiancées are perfectly faithful, until a world-weary philosopher dares them to test that certainty with a wager. Disguised, they each pursue the other’s betrothed as part of a carefully arranged trial of temptation. What begins as playful scheming soon turns uneasy, uncovering doubts, desires, and truths about trust and loyalty.

A dramatic arc unfolds across this program, moving from mythic tragedy to blazing virtuosity and, finally, consolation. Dorothy Howell’s Lamia opens with shadowed lyricism, telling of a nymph and the vengeance of a jealous god. Violinist Alexandra Conunova, in her first appearance with the CSO, takes center stage in Khachaturian’s Violin Concerto, blending heat with singing lines in a twentieth century Romantic showcase. The May Festival Chorus joins for two choral works by Brahms. Nänie reflects on mortality through three episodes drawn from Greek myth, and Schicksalslied, also known as Song of Destiny, contrasts the calm of the immortals with the unrest of human life. Cristian Măcelaru conducts. The CSO Season is sponsored by Western & Southern.

Pajamas makes its debut at Stanley’s Pub in Cincinnati with an adventurous spin on rock that weaves thoughtful improvisation, memorable hooks, and carefully crafted sections into a seamless flow. The Ann Arbor, Michigan quartet has built a devoted Midwest following known as bedheads through an engaging live approach. The lineup features Nicholas Orr on electric guitar, Owen Kellenberger on keyboards, Liam Gallegos on bass, and Graham Low on drums.

At Cincinnati Music Hall, this orchestral program moves from mythic drama to virtuosic fire and choral consolation. Dorothy Howell’s Lamia opens with a dark, lyrical tale of a nymph and her fate under a jealous god. Violinist Alexandra Conunova makes her CSO debut in Khachaturian’s Violin Concerto, a 20th century Romantic showcase that blends blazing technique with soaring lines. The program closes with two Brahms works for chorus and orchestra: Nänie, a meditation on mortality told through scenes from Greek mythology, and Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny), which contrasts the serene realm of immortals with the unsettled human condition. Cristian Mӑcelaru conducts, with Alexandra Conunova on violin and the May Festival Chorus. Season support is provided by Western & Southern, CSO Season Sponsor.

Timed with the Bengals bi-week, this rooftop season send-off at The Phelps Bar’s Top of the Park turns an open afternoon into a stylish escape. The experience spans two levels with two bars and food available, plus a striking vantage point from what is billed as the tallest rooftop in the city. Each deck delivers its own sound. On the lower level, DJ JRK travels in from Dayton to spin R&B, soul, and hip hop. Up top, DJ YMS brings a reggae and afrobeat groove. Suggested looks include button-ups or polos, along with knitted skirts and boots, suited to the late-season vibe. It is a final chance to soak in the skyline with music, movement, and a split-level atmosphere.

Each Monday, the Sherwin-Williams Porch fills with the sounds of local and regional jazz. Attendees can sip their favorite drink while relaxing in a lively Cincinnati setting as Jazz at the Park presents free performances with no tickets required. The rotating lineup features artists such as Sophia Troyer, Love of Country Jazz Quintet with their Cowboy Bossa Nova program, Brent Gallaher Quintet, Mambo Combo, Estrada do Sol, Faux Frenchmen, Ricky Nye, Pamela Mallory Quartet, Little Saudade, Mandy Gaines with Brad Meyers, Jim Connerley Quartet, Camille Saba Smith, Bacchanal Steel Band, Marc Fields, Keigo Hirakawa Trio, Lili Shires with Steve Schmidt, Hank Stephens with Erwin Stuckey, Five Little Bears, Phil DeGreg Trio, Retro Nouveau featuring Jack Garrett, Noisepolice, Al West Jr, Jordan Pollard Trio, Queen City Cabaret, Daniel Bennett and the Dirty Shirleys, and Dixie Karas. The series is produced in collaboration with Jazz at the Memo and is supported by GBBN, Sherwin-Williams, and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Strauss Troy’s Market on the Square returns with an outdoor lunchtime experience featuring live music and a rotating selection of local food trucks. The lineup changes each day, keeping the offerings fresh and varied. Sponsored by Strauss Troy and Fifth Third Bank, with production by 3CDC.

Experience Tuesday night jazz at Muse as Aaron Jacobs performs with Brad Meyers and Jason Smart.