3337 Farm to Market 1960 Houston, TX 77014
281-880-5500
http://www.clubsugarhill.com The name Sugarhill is obviously rooted in hip-hop history, and that's because its owner, Tony iLL, is rooted in hip-hop history too. After attempts at a rapping career didn't flourish (he was a renowned battle rapper but could never force himself to create the vaunted "radio single"), and after attempts at starting a record label didn't pan out, iLL eventually figured out his way to contribute to the hip-hop culture he so clearly loves: By opening a bar/nightclub that was meant to do nothing else but champion it. Located in north Houston, Sugarhill has slowly built up an adamant fan base. And with regular shows featuring some of rap's all-time greats (Kool Moe Dee, for example), it (hopefully) won't be going anywhere anytime soon. More >>
http://www.theconcertpub.com This sister to the Galleria-area Concert Pub has had some significant updates since opening in June 2010. First of all, despite its location beyond the range of Houston's smoking ban, lighting up indoors is taboo. The bar is massive, stretching all the way down to the accompanying Concert Pub Yacht, itself a full seafood restaurant and bar. A gorgeous giant wooden deck, complete with a full bar, connects the two establishments and gives folks who need a nicotine fix plenty of room. Indoors, two large bars serve up drinks, and some form of live music takes the stage almost every night. More >>
http://www.continentalclub.com This is the linchpin of "The Island" off Main, catering to every roots, rockabilly and country soul in town. Most any day of the week, one can walk in and plop down at the bar and unwind with the help of a cold Lone Star, great company, and some local music. If the Continental Club doesn't make your Texas heart jump just a little inside your chest, then you are doing something wrong. Also be sure to check out the Pachinko Hut out back when the weather is just right, manned by bartender Big E, who is also playing great B-movies in the background. More >>
2005 Lake Robbins Drive Spring, TX 77380
281-363-3300
http://pavilion.woodlandscenter.org Houston's "summer shed" hosts the A-list national touring acts and packages across all musical genres. But while the seated areas provide a better view for a pricier ticket, the best action is often found on the lawn. That's especially true during rock shows, where the ant-free green carpet isn't the only grass being enjoyed up high. More >>
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dan-Electros-Guitar-Bar/117740365554?fref=ts This Sunset Heights mainstay has long been a place to grab a brew and a show. The bar stocks a healthy supply of Texas beers in addition to the standard Bud family of bottles, and the kitchen doles out eats until the clock strikes 1 a.m. Dan Electro's doesn't serve liquor, but bring your own and for a small fee they'll set you up with some fixings. A smattering of old guitars and groovy fluorescent skating-rink stars decorate the walls, and Dan Electro's corner stage has played host to too many local and regional names to count (most often blues, folk, roots-rock and hard rock). The extensive back garden patio holds many a refuge for those looking to relax in the cool of the evening. That is if you can find the place, since it is off the beaten paths of the Heights. More >>