Maxwell’s was the venue for live music in Hoboken since the ‘70s and a launching pad for a diverse group of emerging artists like R.E.M., The Replacements, New Order, Pixies, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hole, and Nirvana. While it’s no longer active, don’t fret, as Hoboken and Jersey City’s musical tradition continues on with tons of entertainment options. There is always a bar, pub, restaurant, and even a coffee shop or two, featuring live music from up-and-coming groups, solo artists, cover bands, or local faves from pop, electric, and rock to jazz and acoustic. Read on to discover local spots where you can listen to live music in Hoboken and Jersey City weekly.
Disclaimer: This is a growing list. If you know of any other businesses that host live music in Hoboken + Jersey City please email hello@hobokengirl.com.
Jersey City
Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard
Batello hosts live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6PM-9PM. Check the website for the latest info.
Brightside Tavern | 141 Brightside Street
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The week starts off on the right note at the Brightside Tavern. Mondays see a live jazz session from 7:30PM to 11PM. Tuesdays bring a karaoke open mic night from 7:30PM to 11PM. Keep up with the Tavern’s Instagram for the latest.
Fox + Crow | 594 Palisade Avenue
Fox + Crow hosts live music every week. Most of the musicians featured are local to New Jersey, and there is a recurring Reggae Night. Check the online calendar for the latest info.
Moore’s Lounge | 189 Monticello Avenue
For the jazz lovers, every Friday aspiring future jazz professionals can join a jam session and all enjoy the delicious fish fry made from Ms. Ruth’s legendary recipe. On Sundays, there is the weekly “Meet the Artist” series where world-renowned and extraordinary artists meet with young, emerging talents, in a “Jazz Clinic” type of setting, performing for a local audience wishful to learn and exchange knowledge about the context in which jazz music has emerged and is played today.
Porta | 135 Newark Avenue
There is live music or a DJ every weekend at Porta. Keep an eye on the event calendar to get the latest updates. Both the rooftop and the main floor have music, so there’s always something happening.
The Archer | 176 Newark Avenue
The bar features live music every week on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Come early to catch the happy hour specials: $6 pints of Lager and $10 classic cocktails — sip on a Manhattan, an Old Fashioned, a Daiquiri, or a Bees Knees from 5PM-7PM.
The Hutton | 225 Hutton Street
The Hutton hosts a trad every Sunday from 4PM-7PM – an informal session for Irish musicians to play together.
The Liberty House Restaurant | 76 Audrey Zapp Drive
Live music is on the calendar every weekend at Liberty House. Check out the events calendar for the latest listings.
Read More: Hoboken + Jersey City Spots Where You’re Most Likely to Run Into a Celebrity
White Eagle Hall | 337 Newark Avenue
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Jersey City’s concert and performing arts venue in a restored and renovated historic theater, check out the calendar of an all-star line-up of upcoming shows. Buy box office tickets at Tunes in Hoboken or Word in Jersey City!
Hoboken
Barbès | 1300 Park Avenue
Celebrate the weekend with live music at Barbès on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 7PM -10PM.
bwè kafe | 1002 Washington Street + 1401 Adams Street, Hoboken + 140 River Drive South, Jersey City
Open Mic Nights are back at the Jersey City location. Admission is free, and the event will be held monthly. Check out the kafe’s calendar for more information.
Dino + Harry’s Steakhouse | 163 14th Street
The steakhouse features light jazz on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and on Fridays and Saturdays, they enhance the romantic experience of date night with elegant piano music.
Finnegan’s Pub | 734 Willow Avenue
Finnegan’s pub hosts live music night events each week. Head over there to hear live music from 7PM-9PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
See More: Indoor + Outdoor Concert Venues in New Jersey to Catch a Show
House of ‘Que | 340 Sinatra Drive
On the House of ‘Que website, tons of fun events are listed for live music. Whether it is Country Night or Dueling Pianos there are many options to choose from!
80 River Bar + Kitchen | 80 River Street #302
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80 River recently just launched its spring concert series, which features live music every weekend Cover bands will be performing decade-defining hits from the ’80s, ’90s, and beyond. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased here.
The Shepherd + the Knucklehead | 1313 Willow Avenue
Enjoy live music beginning at 8PM on Fridays and a DJ on Saturdays beginning at 10PM.
Union Hall | 306 Sinatra Drive
Listen to live music with the Manhattan skyline backdrop! Check out Union Hall’s Instagram to learn more about all live music events.
Willie McBride’s | 616 Grand Street
Bands from all over the Tri-State perform here on certain Friday and Saturday nights so be sure to check out the website! As an added bonus, call ahead for a free limo ride and no cover charge to the venue on Fridays and Saturdays. Contact the bar at 201-681-7550.
