The Independent SF

The home of the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, Journey and more, the backdrop of the Summer of Love and home to some amazing music venues from large to small, San Francisco has a rich musical history. Large music venues like Shoreline Amphitheater, Chase Center and The Greek Theater bring popular acts to the Bay Area all year long, but if you prefer to get up close and personal with the acts at smaller music venues, then San Francisco has a lot to offer. Great American Music Hall, Rickshaw Stop, Bottom of the Hill, The Independent and more all offer an intimate setting with some amazing talent performing on their stages.

Located in San Francisco’s NOPA District, The Independent officially opened in 2004. The venue doesn’t look like much without a crowd and performers on stage, just a small, dark 500 person venue with a large stage and a bar in the back. However, The Independent SF is anything but basic. They have state of the art lighting and sound and the massive stage surrounded by a large center viewing area and elevated sections on each side, which ultimately provide one of the best concert viewing experiences you will ever have. There literally isn’t a bad spot in the house so you will be able to see everything from the lead singer to the drums in the back. Despite only having room for 500, the venue is a popular spot for major artists to perform intimate shows for their fans. Over the years, artists like John Legend, The Black Eyed Peas, Green Day, LCD Soundsystem, Imagine Dragons, Zedd, Vampire Weekend and more have taken the stage at The Independent.

If you are looking for a great place to see some live music in San Francisco, The Independent should be at the top of your list.