Glasgow - music
Glasgow’s firm hold on art, expression and culture has given birth to some of the best British music around. Hugely influential local artists like John Martyn, Simple Minds, Primal Scream, Jesus and Mary Chain and Teenage Fanclub have all helped establish a prominent Scottish music scene here.
During the last 10 years through Britpop and the cultural expansion of the city, bands like Arab Strap, Belle and Sebastian, the Delgados, Mogwai and more have defined a unique, vibrant sound celebrated around the world. Today, new Glaswegian bands like Franz Ferdinand, Cosmic Rough Riders and Dogs Die in Hot Cars are all causing a storm internationally.
Did you know…?
1) Back in 1993 an unknown band called Oasis muscled their way on to the line up at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, where Creation Records boss Alan McGee was so impressed he signed them up on the spot.
2) Gil Scott Heron’s dad was the first American to play for a British football team; he played for Glasgow’s Irish Catholic team in the '50’s.
3) The only place the King of Rock 'n’ Roll, Elvis Presley ever touched down in the UK was at Glasgow Prestwick International Airport while he was in the US Army. The monumental occasion is celebrated in the airport with a plaque as well as a Graceland Bar and Little Las Vegas arcade.
4) Belle and Sebastian’s front man, Stuart Murdoch, used to be Hall Keeper and lodger at the Church Hall in Glasgow’s suburb of Hyndland, where the band used to use the hall for rehearsals.
5) Justin Timberlake played an intimate, low key gig at Barrowland Ballroom in January this year for a lucky number of fans, just hours after playing a sold out show to over 9,000 people.
Best places to see the big bands
Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom
The venue regarded as the city’s, and indeed one of Britain’s, best venues for rock and popular music concerts, has seen pivotal performances over the years. Shows by David Bowie, The Who and the Happy Mondays through to recent acts like The Libertines and Radiohead favourites the Beta Band, have all played here. 244 Gallowgate. >> Find out more (www.glasgow-barrowland.com)
Carling Glasgow Academy
Originally a cinema and theatre venue, the Academy has fast become a prominent live venues for big name acts like Massive Attack, the White Stripes and Public Enemy. More recently the sounds of Ash and The Charlatans have been thrilling the crowds. 121 Eglinton Street. >> Find out more (www.glasgow-academy.co.uk)
Best places to see the bands of the moment
King Tut's Wah Wah Hut
The venue gained an infamous reputation with the discovery of Oasis and is a great hang out for music lovers. Anyone who is anyone in British music has taken to the stage here. 272a St Vincent Street. >> Find out more (www.kingtuts.co.uk)
Best places to see the next big things
Stereo
First and regular home for local bands like Franz Ferdinand, Sons & Daughters and more is defining the modern music scene in the city. 11-13 Kelvinhaugh Street. >> Find out more (www.stereomono.info)
Brel
Brel is a lovingly intimate gig venue for new acts, special acoustic sessions and DJ nights. Regular sessions from local stars like Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody, Arab Strap and Belle and Sebastian make this place extra special. Ashton Lane. >> Find out more (www.brelbarrestaurant.com/)
Hip hangouts
Mono
This organic bar and restaurant not only has a grocery section but also a great record store and lending library during the day. King's Court, King Street.
Republic Bier Halle
This ultra cool basement bar has an amazing list of beers from around the world and a fantastic modern style without being pretentious. 9 Gordon St. >> Find out more (www.republicbierhalle.com)
The Garage
Good every night of the week playing a fast and friendly mixture of house, r'n'b as well as rock and indie tunes. Great drink promotions to keep you partying. 490 Sauchiehall Street. >> Find out more (www.garageglasgow.co.uk)
Best record shops
Fopp
Great deals on new and back catalogue CDs. It’s a real challenge to walk out empty handed once, you’ve spotted a bargain. 19 Union Street. >> Find out more (www.fopp.co.uk)
Avalanche Records
There’s an amazing mix of rock, dance, jazz and more, great old records and fantastic new records.
34 Dundas St, near Queen Street Station.
Find out more about Glasgow.