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Live Music

Record label Dirty Hit come through with a guide on where to find a global selection of creative hubs.

From New York to Nashville via Melbourne and Chicago, Dirty Hit have selected their top 10 spaces around the world that are designed for music lovers; meeting spaces for those working within the global music industry. Travelling and looking to connect with likeminded individuals within music? Save this guide.

Founded by Jamie Oborne, Brian Smith and ex-professional footballer Ugo Ehiogu in 2009, Dirty Hit began as a London-based record label and has since expanded to LA, Sydney and Tokyo. They've pushed releases from renowned acts and superstar producers such as Rina Sayawama, Beabadoobee and Jack Antonoff.

Instead of focusing on one area, the founders of the label decided to put together a travel guide offering a global overview of spaces for music industry creatives. Scroll down for their selections.

Botanique in Brussels is housed in a former botanical garden with a reputation for supporting and promoting emerging talent. From exhibitions to theatre performances and music festivals, Botanique is an experience you can’t find anywhere else.

Since 1997, the intimate atmosphere of Notting Hill Arts Club has been a heart for London’s music scene, with nights thriving with up and coming talent from across the globe and huge acts giving their first live performances here.

The Sunflower Lounge brings New York to Birmingham with its half punk and half 60s psychedelic interior. A home for unsigned up and coming bands since 2002, it’s the perfect venue to gain firsthand experience of the music scene within the city.

The Ruby Sessions take place every Tuesday in Doyle’s Pub in Dublin. The event stands out within the city as a beacon for new music appreciation, offering an intimate and acoustic environment where emerging artists can showcase their talent. The Ruby Sessions is a great visit as they donate proceeds from the event every week to a selected charity.

In the heart of Bowery, Manhattan, The Bowery Electric is iconic for its music scene. Hosting multiple performance spaces (a main stage and a more intimate setting), the venue hosts an array of artists – from both local and international acts. Also, as a nightlife hub, it’s a great place to have an authentic New York experience.

Cherry Bar is known for its authentic rock ’n’ roll vibe with an unfiltered music experience. Its legacy within Melbourne is well deserved, hosting a diverse range of genres and acts. It's a consistent must-visit venue when in the city.

As one of the oldest dance halls in Europe, Sala Apolo is a gem in the heart of Barcelona, with culture stemming back to the beginning of the 20th century. Sala is unparalleled when it comes to its history.

The Empty Bottle in Chicago sets itself apart as they actively engage with the local music community, collaborating with artists, promoters and other venues to support new and independent music. Highlighting innovative and boundary-pushing music, this venue is such an exciting space to discover and experience new and unique sounds.

Opening its doors in 1991, the Night & Day Cafe is iconic within Manchester and played a pivotal role in the rise of the city's music scene. The venue has hosted influential bands in their early careers and has acted as a launch pad for local emerging artists.

If you’re looking for a venue that showcases a plethora of country, Americana, indie and rock, The Basement in Nashville is rich with emerging talents across different styles and sounds.

The Empty Bottle

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