Rhode Island’s music scene is a widely diverse hub of performers and musicians showcasing their talents that range from renowned artists like Sage Francis, Deer Tick, Jesse the Tree, and the Rhode Island Philharmonic to emerging local bands and cover acts. For music fanatics, exploring the local music scene is a must-do. The state offers a variety of venues, both historic and modern, that have shaped and continue to shed light on our Rhode Island music culture. Here, we dive into five venues that hold a special place in the heart of John Farone, a local musician from RI who was recently featured in Rhode Island PBS’s Ocean State Sessions.
The Parlour Providence stands proudly on North Main Street as a Black musician-owned and operated venue. The venue is only one floor, but the atmosphere and the musical act are what fills the room at The Parlour. It hosts a dynamic mix of local, national, and international talent, making it a foundation of the music community. Notably, it was the site of John Farone’s first show, making it his favorite venue. This venue is family and kids-friendly.
Askew, which opened its doors in 2018 in Providence’s Jewelry District, was a vibrant space for local arts and performers. Known for being LGBTQ-friendly and hosting open mic nights and stand-up comedy, Askew sadly closed on December 1, 2024. However, its spirit lives on as its operations move to its sister venue, Alchemy.
The Columbus Theatre was designed by Oresto DiSaia and built in 1926. It featured vaudeville, silent films and was a cultural hub for 25 years. Although it closed in June 2024, the owners of the Comedy Connection have since taken over, planning to revive it under its original name, the Uptown Theatre.
AS220 is a cornerstone for creativity, founded on the belief that freedom of expression is important for strong communities and individuality. Open to performers of all ages, AS220 insists that music performed must be original or in the public domain. Its “Main Stage” and “Black Box” venues are celebrated spaces where local artists showcase their talents. The “Main Stage” is great for music, poetry, literary readings, and more, while the “Black Box” hosts intimate performances and film screenings.
Aurora was a mixed-use creative space in the heart of downtown Providence. Though it closed in 2017, it housed the Black Rep and the Roots Café. It was a lively stop for diverse music genres, from hip-hop to rock and salsa, nurturing up-and-coming producers and DJs.
These venues are key components of Rhode Island’s musical history, still inspiring new generations of artists and audiences. The list of venues and musicians in Rhode Island mentioned are only a fraction of what Rhode Island has to offer. While exploring Providence, keep an ear out for melodies that might lead you into one of Rhode Island’s dynamic and talented music venues.
