Neighborhood Spotlight: Rockwood Music Hall
From Bob Dylan to the Strokes, Lower Manhattan’s music scene has a track record of rocketing the careers of some of the biggest acts of all time. And for over 15 years now, Rockwood Music Hall has been doing just that — bringing mold-breaking musicians to the stage. Here’s the lowdown on an East Village gem.
What’s the Story of Rockwood Music Hall?
Established in 2005 on Allen Street, Rockwood Music Hall (named for its owner, Ken Rockwood) started out life as an intimate, one-stage venue. The mantra was simple: Find and book the next big thing in music. And that’s exactly what Rockwood did. Since opening, the likes of Norah Jones, Lady Gaga, Jessie J, The Lumineers, and Mumford & Sons have strutted their stuff here. There’s also a chance you’ll spot the occasional veteran on stage. (Heard of Sting by any chance?) Genre is of no consequence: punk, jazz, indie, blues — artists of all creeds flock to this venue, knowing an appreciative crowd awaits.
Rockwood Music Hall has now grown into a three-stage setup, with multiple acts on the lineup on any given night. It’s thought to have put on 70,000 shows in all. In short, it’s one of the premiere places to see live music in the East Village. And residents of the rentals at EVGB are in a prime spot to make the most of it — they are only about 14 blocks away from this legendary venue.
What’s Coming Up at Rockwood Music Hall?
Hosting more than 450 shows per month, Rockwood Music Hall is never short on quality live music. Looking ahead to October, there’s plenty to get excited about. East Nashville indie-folk singer-songwriter Kristen Englenz visits on Oct. 6. Expect “musical stories of heartache and yearning with a soulful sensibility.” Get down to Marty O’Reilly & The Old Soul Orchestra (Oct. 13); they bring blues, folk, and soul to the table — all with a modern twist. Then, there’s the wonderfully named Damn Tall Buildings (Oct. 20), who’ll have your feet stomping to their brand of bluegrass served up with extra grit.
Of course, half the fun of Rockwood Music Hall can be showing up on any given night, ordering yourself a specialty cocktail, and grooving the night away to whoever happens to be on. As a resident of EVGB, it couldn’t be easier to make this place one of your go-to haunts.
Live within minutes of a legendary music venue: Find your perfect East Village luxury apartment at EVGB today.