Highly accomplished artists and lesser known talent from a broad range of genres are now appearing in Benicia, or within an evening’s reach. In addition to our downtown, we’ll be telling you about headliners at Vallejo’s Empress Theater and Napa’s nightlife as well as the Clock Tower shows, VOENA’s travels and classical music at The Capitol State Historic Site. We’ll be looking into Martinez’s growing scene and will tell you about the unique and entertaining Porch Fest in Napa that happens the last Sunday in July.
It’s no secret that Benicia has experienced exciting growth in its live music scene, on some evenings Benicia has one of the highest live stage per population numbers in the Bay Area. Musicianship, technical development, collaboration at a high artistic level and the performance spaces to support them are all here. It has grown our “destination” status, and with it an enthusiastic crowd of locals and road trippers bringing rock, jazz, roots, 60’s, classical, folk, Celtic, cabaret, and theatrical which has contributed to the economic development of our quaint and magical small town.
As a lifelong writer, producer, studied musician and awarded performer. I care deeply about great music and all it takes to bring that moment of lightning to the stage. We have the structure to be a noted Entertainment Destination. I welcome your insights, feedback and artist alerts.
IN THE CLUBS
Following is an overview of Benicia’s venues and stages. As always if you hear something please let us know!
Serves up the best ribs and brisket along with all of their delightful deli items. They have updated the patio and provides wine and beer service in the performance area, Rock, folk and pop from 6-9pm Thursdays outside during the Farmer’s Market season. June began acoustic Saturday Afternoons, 3:00 pm to 6:00pm. Watch for chart topping rock and pop from The Dawdlers.
Provides a lot of variety including rock, jazz, open mic, comedy, trivia and a range of soloists. The window tables provide a great watch of the street scene, with The Union Hotel a block away and Lucca Beer Garden just across the street. Not in the mood for quiet? Check out 60s vocal masters The Tuneriders with Ken Cooper.
Lucca Bar, Grill and Beer Garden
Outdoor venue known for staging Bay Area recording artists and touring acts. The venue evokes a family feeling, both in the traditional sense and for the family of those who love and respect the music and players. There will be many “don’t miss” surprises gracing their Beer Garden stage. Oh, if you see the name ‘Jeff’ anywhere on the schedule (there’s a couple of them) this is where you want to be.
New on the map with music Thursday evenings either on the patio or inside their intimate restaurant and lounge.
A well-established club with wide variety, booking impressive local and national touring acts leaning toward rock, dance, showcase, and a ‘live’ open mic. There’s a great dance floor and the music is played at an energetic volume.
Music on the patio Thursday nights with a jazz ensemble in its 11th year of residency. Ranging from smooth groove and pop, going far out as Bop.
No matter where you go in Benicia the music is respected and celebrated. There’s hardly ever a cover charge, but there’s always a tip jar. In a town where you can hear a nationally selling artist cut loose in the intimacy of 30 people, make sure you keep your seat. The people around you are contacting their friends and the Bay Area is coming through the door. Just another show in a small town. Cheers!
