7 of the Most Iconic Bands from New York (and Where to See Up-and-Coming Talent)

New York has an incredible music history that can’t be rivaled. From jazz to punk-rock, some of the most iconic music acts spawned out of the New York Harbor, The East Village, and Harlem. To this day, New York continues to be the birthplace of the most incredible bands and solo acts.

Best NYC Music Venues to Discover Up-and-Coming Music Acts

There are hundreds of live concert venues in NYC, but if you want to catch up-and-coming music acts specifically, you’ll have to travel to the following music halls, lounges, and bars.

Rockwood Music Hall

At the Rockwood Music Hall, you’re guaranteed to see 8 performers a night, but you’ll sometimes see up to 12. With two stages and a large floor, you’ll hear everything from fully orchestrated bands to singer-songwriter duos to acoustic sets. Go early to get a good seat.

Mercury Lounge

Located close to Rockwood on East Houston Street, Mercury Lounge features 2 shows a night with a varying lineup that includes established acts and indie bands. The lounge has ample standing room, with the exception of a few booths. It’s a great venue with a friendly atmosphere.

The Bowery Electric

The Bowery Electric is ironically known for their secret shows, as famous acts like Minus the Bear and Green Day have made appearances after indie rock shows. This venue loves to highlight up-and-coming acts and has more than enough standing room for a party.

The 7 Most Iconic Music Acts From New York City

New York City is arguably the greatest music city on the planet. Thousands of incredible bands were born and raised in the big apple, but we’re going to focus on the 7 of our favorites.

1. Wu-Tang Clan

The Wu-Tang Clan, formed in Staten Island, is one of the most influential hip hop groups or “bands” in hip hop history. They helped popularize the East Coast and hardcore hip hop styles and continue to receive widespread critical acclaim for their impact on hip hop as a whole.

2. The Ramones

Although The Ramones are mistaken for British musicians, they’re actually New York natives. In the 1970s, the Ramones defined punk music and were renowned for their stripped-down version of rock. Their durability is incredible, considering how quickly punk left the mainstream.

3. The Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys were originally a punk band, but they didn’t receive any attention until their first rap single, “Cookie Puss.” Since then, The Beastie Boys have performed rap and hip hop music for stadiums of thousands. They’ve won multiple awards and topped Billboard charts.

4. Blondie

It wasn’t easy for female-led rock acts to sell records, but Blondie did. Led by Debbie Harry, Blondie has a fresh vibe that combines genres like disco, rap, and reggae to form an entirely new sound. Blondie’s track “Heart of Glass” hit number one on music charts all over the world.

5. Simon & Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel, made up of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, originally played separately in the 50s. It wasn’t until the 1960s that this incredible duo started making music together. As a couplet, they achieved instant commercial success with the song “The Sound of Silence.”

6. Anthrax

Anthrax is a part of the “Big Four” of the thrash metal genre, along with Slayer, Megadeth, and Metallica. For many, Anthrax is the most underrated of the Big Four. Anthrax has topped charts and won several awards. They continue to release incredible metal music to this day.

7. Yeah Yeah Yeahs

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are a female-led indie rock band that came up during the heyday of the post-punk revival. Their first three albums were nominated for a Grammy award. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs single “Maps” continues to influence up-and-coming music acts, songs, and genres.

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About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.