Brooklyn’s Music Venue Scene is Ever Vibrant and Thriving

October 9, 2023 by Michela Arlia

Live music is one of the iconic symbols that makes New York City one that never sleeps. Brooklyn is home to many music gems that have been cultivating audiences and musicians alike for years. Whether enriched in history or the site of 21st century beginnings, Brooklyn music venues have conquered the myriad of music genres. Brooklyn Roads takes a dive into some of the those venues.

Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie / Kings Theatre /October 12.,2018 /photo by Mark Doyle

First is the Kings Theater in Flatbush.

Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires at the Kings Theatre / February 3, 2018 / photo by Kyra Kverno

Jason Isbell at the Kings Theatre /February 3, 2018/ photo by Kyra Kverno

Formerly Lowe’s Kings Theater, this venue first opened as a movie palace in 1929. It closed in 1977, sitting idle for decades before private developers restored and reopened the theater as a performing arts venue in 2015.

Today, everything old is new again as the theater is a hub for live entertainment of all music genres. Legends like Patti La Belle have graced its stage, along with Grammy winners Ed Sheeran and Bob Dylan, set to perform there later this fall.

We now travel to Williamsburg for National Sawdust.

Iris Lune at National Sawdust / September 24, 2016/ photo by Ray Fontaine

Opening in 2015, the non-profit venue supports the creation of innovative new work. Contrasting the grandness of Kings Theater, National Sawdust is an intimate space that seats 350 in a century-old sawdust factory.

Specializing in avant-garde performance, the venue has featured Phillip Glass, Yo-Yo Ma and many others. The venue is also home to one of the very few cultural institutions in New York operated by women. Co-founders Ana De Archuleta and composer Paola Prestini serve as Managing Director and Artistic Director.

Jan Bell & The Maybelles at Barbès / February 28, 2019 / photo courtesy of B.L.Howard Productions

Now, we focus on Barbès in the South Slope.

Opening in 2002, Barbès has been home to thousands of performers. The venue’s original goal was to provide a space and community for Brooklyn based artists and musicians who were independent and needed an alternative to Manhattan clubs. At a time when Brooklyn was not well known for its various cultures as it is now, the venue has been home to many across all genres, including some who take up monthly residency such the Andy Statman Trio , Slavic Soul Party , Stephane Wrembel and Jenny Scheinman .

Artists on our Radar

Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

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