Cincinnati has always been a breeding ground of great music. And, once upon a time, Cincinnati was key destination for many artists in recording their music at the Herzog Studios and King Studios. Those long-defunct studios once saw many famous musicians, such as Hank Williams and James Brown, record there. There have also been many famous musical performers to come out of Cincinnati, from Doris Day and Andy Williams, Bootsy Collins and the Isley Brothers, to the Afghan Whigs and the brothers of 98 Degrees, Nick and Drew Lachey. So, Cincinnati has a very strong local music scene from bands performing covers to their own original music. You can also find local bands covering the gamut of music genres.
One of the most popular local bands is the Rusty Griswolds, a cover band playing mainly 80s pop and alternative music and frequently voted tops in Cincinnati Magazine's annual "Best of Cincinnati" issue. Soul Pocket is another highly popular local cover band, playing R&B, disco, and funk. If you're looking for original music, Over the Rhine and Bad Veins are two local bands performing original music; both bands have garnered some national attention. If you want to check out a variety of local bands, Cincinnati has a number of venues that host live music (such as Northside Tavern) and Fountain Square offers live music throughout the summer with many local bands included. In the Fall, check out Midpoint Music Festival for more emerging local acts.
