Blues Clubs in Chicago

No other form of music represents Chicago like the blues. Blues legends still live here and still show up at many Chicago blues clubs to surprise patrons. From the historical to the hip, blues clubs in Chicago never want for audiences, whether made up of tourists or local music fanatics.

The brainchild of Buddy Guy himself – who returns to play sold-out shows every January – Buddy Guy’s Legends has hosted some of the biggest players in the industry since 1989, and features local performers and celebrity blues acts alike every night on its spacious stage. Young professionals and local businessmen in the market for southern soul food stop into the lounge for lunch and a free acoustic set during the week, while on Fridays and Saturdays the main room and two bars are usually brimming by 6pm with everyone from post-grads, conventioneers, and hotel guests to local residents, hipsters, and die-hard music lovers hungry for a good show.

Farther north, Kingston Mines – founded in 1968 – has stood witness to more than a few big players in the industry wailing about how their woman left them. Playbills from past performances, old photos of legendary singers, and vintage murals of African American history dot the room, while mismatched ceiling tiles and peeling linoleum floors add a down-and-dirty touch for the young hipster music lovers and older fans who groove to the twang that kicks off at 9:30 each night. Its location near DePaul University and waived cover for students from Sunday through Thursday usually ensure a young crowd.

Even if your knowledge of Chicago blues is limited to The Blues Brothers, Chicago blues clubs will give you great chances to groove alongside other music lovers. And if you’re lucky, you might even see a living legend.