Atlanta hip-hop collective Two-9 at the Drunken Unicorn. (Image via redbullcontentpool.com)
There's no shortage of Atlanta venues catering to independent bands, but there's no shortage of independent bands booking them, either. We've mentioned before that the city's competition is stiff, so it's helpful to know which spots are most open to rooting for the under-underdogs.
Whether local or touring, if you're new to booking in Atlanta, you'll want to keep these five venues in mind. They're some of the city's smallest size-wise, but they're big on championing brand-new acts – and a number of them could be down to host your live debut.
1. Wonderroot
Image via wonderroot.org
The ethos of this spot makes it extra special: Wonderroot is a nonprofit that aims to connect artists with community in the promotion of positive social change. Founded in 2004, the unassuming building – which could easily pass for a modest Southern home – has become a hub for aspiring creatives through its membership program, which offers access to a ceramics studio, digital media lab, darkroom, recording studio, and more for as low as $10 per month. Unsurprisingly, they're exceptionally open-minded about the programming of their performance space. All styles of music (and art) are welcome, and it's almost always open to all ages.
How to book: Fill out an inquiry form here.
2. Star Community Bar
Image via instagram.com
This Little Five Points neighborhood landmark has changed owners in the past few years so, naturally, things have changed a bit – but not drastically. Mondays are still reserved for open-mic comedy; on Tuesdays, there's an '80s and '90s dance party (an old tradition revived); and on Wednesdays, there's open-mic country karaoke with a live band. Your best bets for booking, then, are Thursday through Saturday. That sort of limits things for up-and-coming bands and artists, but there are two places to perform at Star Bar: the larger upstairs stage and the smaller Little Vinyl Lounge downstairs. Additionally, they're down to book all genres.
How to book: Read the details here.
3. The Drunken Unicorn
Atlanta band Baby Baby performing at the Drunken Unicorn. (Image via redbullcontentpool.com)
Awesomeness case in point: the Drunken Unicorn is basically a nook inside an underground cave. Okay, so it's not a natural cave, and maybe it actually looks more like a dungeon than a cave. Still, it's definitely a unique part of the Atlanta venue circuit. One entrance takes you directly to MJQ, a late-night club; the other side is where you'll find the 250-capacity venue, which first opened in 2004. You'll find virtually every style of music on the Drunken Unicorn calendar, from hip-hop to pop-punk to experimental electronic, though rock 'n' roll and its offshoots are typically the most prevalent.
How to book: Check out their policies and contact info here.
4. Mammal Gallery
Image via mammalgallery.com
Having opened only two years ago, Mammal Gallery is a relatively new addition to Atlanta's independent arts landscape, but has already been wholly embraced by the city. The two-story spot, which includes an upstairs gallery area, is actively progressive: Mammal is decidedly DIY-minded, and aims to be "a safe space for creative minds." For that, the warm reception it's received is much deserved – plus, it's also helping to revive an area of downtown formerly neglected after dark.
How to book: Inquiries should be directed to William at booking@mammalgallery.com.
5. Smith's Olde Bar
Image via dailyreportonline.com
Rumors of a forced closing of the venue, which has been operating for more than 20 years, started circling last April – the property had come under new ownership, and those new owners intended to sell. Thankfully, they've extended the lease until January, and Dan Nolan, who runs Smith's, has said he's hopeful that whoever purchases the overall strip will be open to renewing the venue's contract. All three performance spaces – the open-area Bar Room (best for DJs), the 100-capacity Atlanta Room (ideal for up-and-coming artists) and the larger Music Room upstairs – are still available for booking inquiries as usual. Phew!
How to book: Fill out their booking form here.
Next up:
- The Show’s Not Over: How to Engage, Connect, and Follow Up
- Why is the Sound Guy So Angry? The Talent vs. Technician Paradox
- Getting the Gig: The Power of Collaboration
- How to Persuade People to Come to Your Show on a Weeknight
Jhoni Jackson is an Atlanta-bred music journalist currently based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she juggles owning a venue called Club 77, freelance writing and, of course, going to the beach as often as possible.
