How to Enjoy Indie Music in Singapore: The Top 10 Venues You Need to Check Out
Indie music is a genre of music that is often produced independently of major commercial labels and studios. Indie music artists tend to have more creative freedom and experimentation in their music, resulting in diverse and original sounds. Indie music fans are usually passionate and supportive of their favourite bands and singers and enjoy discovering new and emerging talents.
In Singapore, there are many venues that cater to indie music lovers, offering live performances by local and international acts, as well as a cosy and friendly atmosphere. Whether you are looking for rock, pop, folk, jazz, or electronic music, you will find an indie music venue that suits your taste and mood. Here are the top 10 best indie music venues in Singapore, based on their location, menu, ambience and reviews. Here are our picks for the best indie music venues in Singapore:
Table of Contents
No Time to Read? Here’s a Snappy Summary of This Article
- Groove to Local Beats: Explore Singapore’s vibrant indie music scene with these must-visit venues that showcase emerging talents.
- Intimate Vibes: Experience up-close performances in cozy settings, fostering a unique connection between artists and the audience.
- Hidden Gems Unveiled: Discover lesser-known spots where indie artists flourish, adding an element of exclusivity to your musical journey.
- Eclectic Soundscapes: Immerse yourself in diverse music genres, from indie rock to electronic beats, satisfying every taste and preference.
- Artistic Ambiance: Immerse yourself in the artsy atmospheres of these venues, where music blends seamlessly with creative expression.
- Memorable Nights Out: Create lasting memories as you enjoy live music, support local artists, and soak in Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry.
#1 – The Substation
Introduction:
Founded in 1990 by the late Kuo Pao Kun, The Substation is known for its pioneering and experimental arts programming. Over the years, The Substation has worked with some of Singapore’s most critically acclaimed artists, writers and intellectuals including Alvin Tan, Goh Boon Teck, Amanda Heng, Lee Wen and Kok Heng Leun.
Every year, The Substation presents an overarching artistic theme that informs the exhibitions, programmes and initiatives for the year. Each of these programmes explores in greater detail the questions posed by the artistic theme and the societal issues surrounding these questions. Through these annual artistic themes, The Substation expands, leads and supports cultural conversations in Singapore, engaging the general public and exposing them to the full possibilities of contemporary art in shaping public discourse.
About
- The One at Home – a 14-Day Durational Performance by Oliver Chong
- A Peek at Time – Film Programme by Ghazi Alqudcy
Opening Hours:
- Weekdays- 10 am-7 pm
- Weekends- Closed
Price of Admission: $15- $20
Location & Address: 45 Armenian Street Singapore 179936
Contact: +65 6337 7535
Website: Website Link Here
#2 – Blu Jaz Cafe
Introduction: Blu Jaz Café started as a 16 seater Burger joint at No.71 Dunlop Street in Little India in 2004. Next to it The Inn crowd, a popular backpacker’s hostel. And a stone throw away Prince of Wales, an Aussie pub cum backpackers. Blu Jaz moved to our current location at No. 11 Bali Lane in Kampong Glam in 2006 and has been here for the last 12 years. In between, Blu Jaz has grown into a popular hot spot for live entertainment, bursting with great vibes, music, visual arts and people.
As a company, Blu Jaz group of bars and restaurants have grown to include Muzium Mediterranean Cafe and Piedra Negra Mexican Bar and Restaurant. Blu Jaz and Piedra Negra have recently expanded into Malaysia. Blu Jaz’s rapid growth has been made possible by the support of our loyal guests and our dedicated team of kitchen, bar, service, housekeeping, sound and marketing personnel as well as their talented musicians, djs and artists. Their team’s mission is to provide an explosive memorable experience for all their guests.
About
- Blu jaz cafe Dj night
- Mexican Fiesta
- Food and Dessert
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Sunday 12 pm- 1.30 pm
- Wednesday- Closed
Price of Admission: Free
Location & Address: 11 Bali Lane, Historic Kampong Glam Singapore 189848
Contact: +65 9199 0610
Website: Website Link Here
#3 – Hood Bar and Cafe
Introduction:
Hood Bar and café is the epitome of local charm that brings the best of music, art, and culture in Singapore.
This is their hood. A place where like-minded people who really dig great live music and free-flow art hang out. This is where they discover great local talents and put them on stage in front of a legion or handful of fans. This is the place where friends catch up, colleagues gossip and lovers make out in public. This is the canvas where art flourishes and people paint memories. This is their hood. And if you think this is where you belong, then this is your hood too.
About
- Music
- Food
- Happy Hour Menu
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday 5.30 pm-1 am
- Friday to Saturday 5.30 pm-3 am
- Sunday- Closed
Price of Admission: Free
Location & Address: 201 Victoria St, #05-07 Bugis+, Singapore 188067
Contact: +65 6221 8846
Website: Website Link Here
#4 – Esplanade
Introduction:
In 1989, the creation of a world-class performing arts centre was recommended, with input from the arts community. The project took shape as Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, an architectural icon recognised all over the world that shaped the arts and culture in Singapore.
They are the first striking architectural feature on the Marina Bay that is beautiful inside and out. Discover the architects and what makes our performance venues world-class.
About
- Recital Studios
- Theatre Studio
- Rehearsal Studios
- Art Galleries
- Outdoor Theatre
Opening Hours:
- 12 pm-6 pm (Daily)
Price of Admission: Free
Location & Address: 1 Esplanade Drive Singapore 038981
Contact: +65 6828 8377
Website: Website Link Here
#5 – The Projector
Introduction:
The year is 2014. Three women stood at the foot of the historic Golden Mile Tower and wondered aloud – what’s missing in this wretched hive of scum, villainy and lupsup discos? And from beyond the dizzying neon lights and staggering red-faced uncles rose a mournful cry deep within the soul of the anguished Brutalist building – ‘Open an indie cinema!’
About
- Films
- Events
- Bar
Location: Location Here
Opening Hours:
- Weekday 4 pm – 8.30 pm
- Weekends 1 pm – 8.30 pm
- Public Holidays 1 pm-8.30 om
Price of Admission: $Free
Location & Address: 6001 Beach Rd, #05-00 GOLDEN MILE TOWER, Singapore 199589
Contact: +65 6337 0095
Website: Website Link Here
#6 – Decline
Introduction:
Even before the circuit breaker it was inactive for a while and heard various explanatory rumours from scene-goers ranging from the venue being renovated to a permanent closure due to noise complaints. Regardless, there’s been no statement on their Facebook page, and it doesn’t make sense that they’ve only just started getting noise complaints as shows have been held there for quite some time and Anaki records has also hosting gigs in the same building.
About
- Strange Weather with Elena Colombi & ANTARMUKA (Live)
- Thugshop presents – Martin Roth [ANJUNADEEP]
- CÉ LA VI presents: Fell Reis
Opening Hours:
- 5 pm – 10 pm
Price of Admission: –
Location & Address: 37 Lor 23 Geylang, Singapore 388371
Contact: –
Website: Website Link Here
Read Also:
Top 10 Best Live Bands in Singapore
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#7 – Lithe House
Introduction:
Lithe Paralogue began as a media lab for its experimentation in audio technology. They registered as a company in late 2009 and launched The Lithe Paralogue Studio for rehearsals, recordings, and underground live shows at Old Bukit Timah Firestation. Spanning over 8 years at 4 different locations before and with countless of shows hosted and organised under its wings, Lithe Paralogue now resides at its new abode, LITHE HOUSE, located along Madras Street. It aims to provide the best rehearsal experience for musicians and an awesomely cosy live space for music goers where they get to experience performances up close and personal. LITHE HOUSE is also home to independent record label Lithe Records that brought you the highly acclaimed album of 2016 “Sun Eat Moon Grave Party” by Forests whilst spicing it up with a tour in Taiwan and Japan.”
About
- Studio
- Anika record
Location: Location Here
Opening Hours:
- Weekdays 24hors
Price of Admission: –
Location & Address: 23 Madras St, Singapore 208418
Contact: +65 9270 8017
Website: Website Link Here
#8 – Lepark
Introduction:
This place has closed 🙁 Please try somewhere else. * Lepark – the secret getaway spot at People’s Park Complex Carpark. Street Tapas, Craft Beers, Music and Art at an Alternative Social Space. Come Lepark la!
About
- Chicken Wing Stuffel
- Poached Chicken Rice Sushi
Price of Admission: $25
Location & Address: 1 Park Rd, #06-00 People’s Park Complex, 059108
Contact: +65 6908 5809
Website: Website Link Here
#9 – Going Om
Introduction:
This place has closed. Just a normal cafe/bar inspired by the Himalayas… with live music, outdoor seating, Indian fusion food, fresh juices, Vietnamese coffee and a bunch of staff that really wants you to feel like you are h’OM’e… and the weekly Sunday yoga Alignment classes to help you get through the week.
Opening Hours:
- Permanently Closed
Price of Admission: –
Location & Address: 63 Haji Lane, Singapore 189256
Contact: +65 6396 3592
Website: Website Link Here
#10 – Crazy Elephant
Introduction:
The place has closed. The Beeda Man is a salt of the earth craftsman, toiling at hand-wrapped beeda to passing labourers from all backgrounds. Beeda (or paan), a spiced calming stimulant, is known across Asia to be chewed for its mild stimulant effects and post-meal digestive properties.
At The Elephant Room, we celebrate culture and further it through their cocktails and food. They’re inspired by the culture, trade, people and history of Singapore’s Little India. And they bring these stories to your palate in the most surprising ways possible.
About
- Cocktail Main
- Happy Hour Menu
- Corporate & events
Opening Hours:
- 5 pm – 12 am (Daily)
Price of Admission: –
Location & Address: 20A Teck Lim Road Singapore 088391
Contact: +65 9111 5131
Website: Website Link Here
Conclusion
When it comes to experiencing indie music in Singapore, the Top 10 Venues are like a treasure map to musical gems. These spots have been handpicked to offer a diverse range of indie sounds, all while providing an atmosphere that’s second to none. Whether you’re a seasoned indie music lover or just dipping your toes into the scene, these venues have something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is indie music popular in Singapore?
A. Yes, indie music has a thriving scene in Singapore, with a range of venues showcasing local talents and diverse genres.
Q. How can I find out about upcoming indie music events?
A. Stay updated by following Tropika Club Magazine’s event listings and social media for the latest on indie music shows in Singapore.
Q. Are these indie music venues suitable for all ages?
A. Most venues are open to all ages, but it’s always good to check the specific venue’s policy before attending.
Q. Can I expect to hear a variety of music styles at these venues?
A. Absolutely, the indie music scene in Singapore covers various styles, from rock and pop to electronic and experimental sounds.
Q. Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for these venues?
A. Booking in advance is recommended, as some shows might have limited capacity due to the intimate settings of these venues.
Q. Are these venues accessible by public transportation?
A. Yes, many of the top indie music venues are conveniently located near public transportation hubs, making it easy to get there.
Have a Place to Recommend?
Your contribution is valuable to us! Are there any outstanding businesses that you believe should be added to our list? If so, please send your recommendations to us at [email protected]. Tropika Club will review your suggestions and update the list accordingly. Thank you for your help in making our list of businesses as comprehensive and accurate as possible.
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