Arguably one of our favorite music scenes in Latin America, Mexico City (CDMX) continues to thrive with more culture and sonic vision than most cities, thanks to the influx of diverse global influences in recent years. Already boasting an extraordinary music culture, the city now embraces an even wider array of genres. Here are some must-visit spots where sonic visions come to life and music creatives unite.
Essential Music Venues & Listening Spaces
El Cometa
Located in the heart of Roma Norte, El Cometa is a revolutionary nightlife space designed by architect and DJ Pablo Gorozpe. This venue offers a multi-sensory experience that blends architecture, design, and music, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a unique environment. With its carefully curated atmosphere, El Cometa is redefining the nightlife scene in CDMX.
Babalu
Babalu is a vibrant venue known for its eclectic music offerings. If you’re lucky, you may catch CDMX’s premier salsa ensemble, La Bendición, live on select Wednesdays, turning the space into a lively dance floor filled with infectious rhythms.
El Ayer DF
A members-only piano bar and nostalgic-themed venue, El Ayer DF brings an intimate and timeless vibe to Mexico City’s music scene. With a code-based entry, this hidden gem offers live music, classic cocktails, and a journey through CDMX’s musical past in an ultra-exclusive setting.
Hi-Fi Listening Bars & Record Stores
For audiophiles and vinyl lovers, CDMX offers carefully curated spaces where sound takes center stage:
Hule – A hidden gem known for its intimate setting and impeccable sound system, making it a favorite among music purists.
99 Récords – A record store by day and a hi-fi listening space by night, offering a curated selection of vinyl and a cozy atmosphere for music enthusiasts.
La Roma Records – Situated in Colonia Roma, La Roma Records is an all-vinyl store known for its eclectic selection of new and used records. It’s the perfect place to buy, sell, or trade vinyl, with genres ranging from cumbia and salsa to electronic and rock.
Top Live Music Venues
Experience the city’s dynamic live music scene at these renowned venues:
Auditorio Blackberry – A modern auditorium that hosts a variety of concerts, from international acts to local talents, offering state-of-the-art acoustics and an intimate setting.
Tonal – An avant-garde space dedicated to experimental sounds and emerging artists, providing a platform for innovative musical expressions.
Vibey Music Studios
For creatives looking to produce or appreciate music in inspiring settings, these studios stand out:
Casa de Copas – A charming studio that combines vintage aesthetics with modern recording technology, fostering a cozy environment for artists.
Panoram – A state-of-the-art recording facility known for its collaborations with both local and international musicians, pushing the boundaries of sound production.
El Balneario – An unconventional studio space that doubles as a cultural hub, encouraging artistic experimentation and community engagement.
*Some of our favorite acts, like Pahua, have popped up at El Balneario.
El Desierto Casa Estudio –
Soy Sauce Studios – Camilo Lara’s creative hub, where the Mexican Institute of Sound and other top projects come to life. This studio has been home to film scores, electronic experiments, and forward-thinking production.
Vibey Parties
Dive into CDMX’s underground party scene with these standout events:
Xochi Beats – A newly launched in-the-know party on the majestic trajineras of Xochimilco, vibing by day between the chinampas.
Noche Negra – A fusion of traditional cumbia rhythms with other modern beats, these parties offer an energetic atmosphere that keeps attendees dancing all night.
Muxic: Music Tourism Office
For those looking to explore the city’s music scene more deeply, Muxic Music Tourism Office offers guided tours, event information, and insights into CDMX’s diverse musical landscape.
In a city where music is the heartbeat of its culture, these venues and events encapsulate the essence of CDMX’s ever-evolving soundscape. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, immersing yourself in these experiences is essential to truly appreciate the city’s sonic vibrancy.
- Sunday
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- Musa
- Pahua looking at records /