There are talented musicians and bands all over Long Island and here are some of the establishments where you’ll often find these rising stars and unsigned and under-the-radar acts. These are where new bands get their start, veteran musicians fine-tune their craft and artists push the edge of creativity.
Billy Joel, The Stray Cats, Taking Back Sunday…while they are world-famous names now, at one time they were playing the local Long Island bar scene trying to make their marks in the music world. Whether you love alternative, emo, punk, blues or another genre, check out these venues and you just may find your new favorite band.
198 Broadway, Amityville
Amity Music Hall is run by music lovers and hosts artists of all genres. Its mission, according to its website, is to “grow the Long Island music and arts community, one show at a time.”
124 North Carll Ave., Babylon
Located right near the Babylon train station is Bartini, a bar and lounge that features mostly original bands every Friday and Saturday night, plus they host an open mic night on Mondays. See Bartini’s latest events on its Facebook page.
Jones Crusher at Mr. Beerys
4019 Hempstead Turnpike, Bethpage
Mr. Beerys (and yes the real name of the owner is Steve Beery) is a pub and music haven that hosts bands all weekend long and most of them are bands that play original music, everything from punk rock to folk. Mr. Beerys also has a large selection of tap and bottled beers to complement your listening pleasures.
The Rail Sports Bar & Music Venue
281 W Main Street, Smithtown
The Rail Sports Bar & Music Venue is known as Smithtown’s Home of Rock & Roll. It is a frequent supporter of local Long Island musicians. The Rail is also a host of Creative Conclave, a musical festival meets art show meets flea market extravaganza dedicated to showcasing local Long Island crafts, goods and talent.
236 Union Avenue, Holbrook
In the daytime, it’s your local pub with beer, drinks and food. At night on the weekends, it’s the place to find some of LI’s most popular original bands. Visit its Facebook page for the most up-to-date schedule.
140 Merrick Rd, Amityville
Every week Revolution showcases new artists from the worlds of punk, emo and more. The venue was called the Past Times Pub back when The Stray Cats auditioned to play here (and got rejected) forty years ago.
4608 Sunrise Hwy, Oakdale
Every Friday and Saturday night Shakers features original live music. There are also daily drink specials, a beer pong table, two dart boards and two pool tables.
