From its roots in classical, spirituals, and jazz to the present day mélange of genres, styles, and talent, Charleston’s music scene has a lot going on.
To help narrow the field, we asked six music aficionados to share their picks for great local acts. Consider this compilation of Lowcountry bands and artists a guidebook to expand your personal playlist
Traditional
We may live in the flatlands, but Charleston still knows how to throw an Appalachian-style pickin’ party.
Blues
You don’t have to wait ’til February’s big bash to get a taste of the blues. The Lowcountry boasts a revolving cast of local talent ready to bear their soulful tunes
Singer /Songwriter
Check out these talented poet-musicians who’ve found success with their signature sounds in the Lowcountry and beyond
Indie/Pop/Experimental
Charleston has a constantly shifting musical landscape with plenty of artists who are unafraid to stretch their creative horizons
Jazz
From big band and Latin to bop and contemporary, the local jazz scene blows hot and cool with shimmering sound and fury
Rock
It’s all contenders with no pretenders in this Lowcountry roundup of guitar-slinging desperadoes vying for the spotlight
Reggae
Though the Lowcountry may be a few latitudes north of the Caribbean, the sprightly ping of steel drums and other island sounds specific to reggae music can be heard year round in our locale. Three bands at the vanguard of the “irie” movement keep the flavor fresh and vibrant.
Jam Bands
The Lowcountry, with its devil-may-care spirit of island life, has evolved into a hotbed of jam-band activity, where improvisation and the extended solo rule.
Classical
With the Charleston Symphony Orchestra in reorganizational limbo, we recommend, for your classical music fix, a busy chamber group, world-class pianists, students to watch, a couple of community orchestras, and a new series aimed at visitors but great for local ears
