Beginning in the 1920’s the Blues made an impression on Chicago and have called the city home ever since. When you’re in a soulful mood and ready to hear some great live music, think no further than these five places in Chicago. Whether you’re downtown and walk into Buddy Guy’s Legends, cram in at B.L.U.E.S. or hit up a number of different clubs, you’re sure to have a great night. Almost all of the clubs offer southern bites and Rosa’s Lounge and Kingston Mines, are open almost all night. The House of Blues offers both a Gospel Brunch as well as evening Blues over dinner.
1. Buddy Guy’s Legends
One of the most famous places to enjoy blues music is Buddy Guy’s Legends. This venue is located in the South Loop and has been around since 1989. Welcoming some of the most iconic blues performers and other artists, Buddy Guy’s Legends has hosted Van Morrison, The Pointer Sisters, B.B. King and The Rolling Stones. The venue is like a museum, showcasing Buddy Guy’s guitars, Grammys, and photographs. Considered the best blues club by Living Blues Magazine, this club also offers southern soul food such as chicken fried steak and chicken and sausage jambalaya. Buddy Guy’s Legends offers free acoustic music and the cover charge for shows ranges from $10 to $20. With music happening every night of the week, this is an easy place to enjoy some authentic Blues.
Located on the northside of Chicago in Lakeview is Kingston Mines which has been offering blues music since 1968. Considered to be the place to “hear blues, drink booze, and talk loud,” the club has Doc’s Rib Joint which offers some of the best BBQ in Chicago. Kingston Mines has two bands on two stages at all times and has concerts as well as jam sessions. The shows usually last long into the morning and the venue stays open until 4am, six nights a week and 5 am on Saturdays. Cover charges range from $12 to $17 and you can purchase them ahead of time online or at the door. Kingston Mines is the largest and oldest blues club in all of Chicago.
3. Rosa’s Lounge
With a tagline “the friendliest blues lounge,” Rosa’s Lounge is a home away from home for Blues lovers. Located in the neighborhood of Lincoln Square, this club was opened in 1984 and named after the owner’s mother, Rosa, who was an Italian immigrant. The lounge features artists from all over and legends like Homesick James and Eddie Taylor Jr. have performed here. Rosa’s is open every night of the week and tickets begin at $7. Named Chicago’s Best Blues Club by the New York Times, Rosa’s offers it’s space for events.
4. House of Blues Back Porch Stage
Located in River North is the House of Blues which has the House of Blues Back Porch Stage. Featuring many blues musicians, the Back Porch offers music every night of the week. The performances here are catered towards guests enjoying their meals and the stage is open until 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 10pm during the week. If you come early for dinner, you avoid the cover charge of $10 which is charged for visitors just enjoying the music. In addition to a full menu, there is a late night menu featuring cornbread with maple butter and pulled pork sliders. The House of Blues also offers a Gospel Brunch on Sundays that includes your food and the performance. Adult admission is $40.
5. B.L.U.E.S.
B.L.U.E.S. focuses primarily on local artists and calls Lincoln Park home. Voted one of the best blues clubs on the north side of Chicago, this club works with Kingston Mines and you can get in free with paid admission to B.L.U.E.S. With a setup that encourages intimacy, the club has close seating. Blues Web Chicago voted B.L.U.E.S. the most authentic blues club in Chicago and on certain days if you live in the neighborhood you can get free admission. Open 365 days a week, B.L.U.E.S. welcomes artists such as Eddie Shaw and Jimmy Burns. The cover charge is $10 most nights and the place is usually packed so arrive early for a good seat.