I have been a music fan for as long as I can remember. Some of my earliest childhood memories involve me wearing my dad’s headphones (that were bigger than my whole head) while I listened to his vinyl record collection. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, a great music city, I had the opportunity to see legends like B.B. King, Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker. Music has been a huge part of each stage of my life, and I am grateful I was exposed to so many different types of music early on, making it easy for me to find something I enjoy listening to in just about any genre.
As a Woodstock resident for the last 30 years, I have seen our town evolve into a vibrant and creative mecca. Exciting things are happening in our music community that will solidify Woodstock as one of the South’s hotspots for great local music. In recent years, downtown Woodstock has become THE local destination for live music events, and, on any given night, you can walk several blocks in any direction and find some of the best musicians and artists in our backyard. Whether it is a large amphitheater-style show, an intimate listening-room event or a lively patio performance, Woodstock has so many options for music lovers to explore.
One article I recently read claimed that, with music so readily available online, “local music scenes are a thing of the past or nearing extinction.” However, I am excited to report this simply is not true for those of us living in Woodstock. We have our very own growing and vibrant music scene happening right here.
Woodstock is a hub of activity that draws musicians and songwriters from all over Georgia and beyond to perform on its stages. Musicians are finding a home in our city, and a sense of community is forming as collaborations and friendships abound. Local songwriter and producer Roger Brainard recently told me, “There really is a healthy, growing music scene in Woodstock. With lots of music-centered venues and players from various genres getting together, encouraging and supporting each other, we seem to be creating a unique sound. Woodstock is becoming a destination for both listeners and musicians.”
If you are a music lover, I would highly encourage you to check out some of the local acts that are performing each week. I think you will be amazed at the talent we have in our neighborhood.
– Carey Hood is a wife, mother and educator who’s lived in Cherokee County 30 years. She enjoys promoting local music through photography and social media. Instagram: @just_a_fan_photography.
The Venues
There is a growing number of venues downtown that offer live music. We’ve attempted to create a comprehensive list. If we’ve missed one, please let us know.
Century House
https://centuryhousewoodstock.com
Copper Coin
https://coppercoinwoodstock.com
The Daily Draft
www.thedailydraft.net
Freight Kitchen & Tap
www.freightkitchen.com
The Gazebo in the Park at City Center
https://bit.ly/3MhuCIi
MadLife Stage & Studios
www.madlifestageandstudios.com
Main and Mill
www.mainandmillwoodstock.com
Maxwell’s Cigar Bar
www.maxwellscigarbar.com
Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater
https://bit.ly/3MhuCIi
Prime 120
https://prime120steakhouse.com
Pure Taqueria
www.puretaqueria.com
The Reeves House Visual Art Center
https://woodstockarts.org/visual-arts
Reformation Brewery
www.reformatoinbrewery.com
Rootstock
www.rootstocknow.com
Woodstock Arts Event Green
https://woodstockarts.org
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