They say everything is bigger in Texas, and Dallas certainly lives up to that slogan. Situated in the heart of north Texas, Dallas is the cultural and commercial hub of that region. Dallas is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, local artists, and culture, highlighted by a dynamic live music and concert environment catering to all genres.
Being in the south, the climate in Dallas can be described as going from warm to hot with summers being nearly unbearable, frequently reaching past the 100-degree mark. The winters are mostly mild though, making it nice for those that don’t like snow.
Searching for the perfect place for a live music experience in Dallas? For over a decade, music fans have found Friday night in the Bishop Arts District and Deep Ellum or the first concert at the neighborhood bar or Kessler Theater in Fort Worth to be fabulous options!
Picking the right Dallas concert venue isn’t the only thing that goes into putting together a concert. You have to make sure that all of the other particulars, like sound, lighting, and instruments, are put together so that the show goes off without a hitch. In a city like Dallas, celebrated for its top sites by Dallas Observer, you're fortunate to have numerous options at your disposal to ensure all is ready for the grand performance, including acts like Leon Bridges.
Instruments
After picking the concert venue, your next task is to know you and the musicians have everything they need to perform. If you need extra instruments or an entire new set, it’s important to find a music rental shop. Everything from brass and wind instruments to guitars and drum kits can be rented from them, and most shops will offer repairs and tuning, too, if you already have your gear. Accessories are important too!
Sound Equipment
Another aspect of the concert that it’s important to prepare for is the proper sound equipment. Some things may be provided by the concert venue, but depending on the type of show, you may want your own amps, speakers, mixers, synthesizers, or other equipment. Most of the time, it’s easiest to go to a local equipment rental shop in Dallas that specializes in providing the type of equipment you need for the type of performance you’re putting on. Renting also makes it easy if you’re traveling or on tour to get the gear you need and move on to the next show.
Lighting Equipment
The last thing on the equipment list for your concert that you should be concerned about is lighting. Proper lighting sets the mood for the show and can change the dynamic when switching from slow, somber melodies to something energetic and upbeat. From spotlights and strobe lights to programmable computerized lighting systems, having the right setup will make your concert a hit.
A concert in this popular city is sure to be a success. Before you narrow down the Dallas concert venue, look to the pros for assistance in setting things up.
Charley’s Guitar Shop
Charley’s Guitar Shop is a family-run purveyor of stringed instruments that has been operating in Dallas for over 30 years. If you need something new, used, repairs, or even lessons, then Charley’s is the place to go. An added benefit of this particular shop is that the owners stand behind their gear and are musicians themselves, meaning every piece is held to a high standard.
Crossroads Audio
When you’re looking for the right sound, Crossroads Audio is the place to go for everything audio-related. With nearly 50 years in the business, they have an impressive collection of products for rental or purchase and can even help with setup and installation. They even offer event services to help with the production of your concert.
Gemini Stage Lighting and Equipment Inc
For lighting of all types, Gemini Stage Lighting and Equipment Inc. has everything you could ever need. This includes stationary lights, moving lights, consoles, and more. They have the largest inventory of rental equipment for music concerts and art events and maintain a stock of products for sale as well thanks to relationships with manufacturers.
Dallas is the hub of North Texas and, as such, has a lot to offer, from a wide set of options for finding a concert venue in the Deep Ellum neighborhood to a thriving cultural and music scene. With all the big city appeal that Dallas has, though, it also has its share of less-than-ideal points.
Plenty of opportunities
No matter what type of concert you want to put on, there’s a crowd and a scene for it, from the Bomb Factory to Adair's Saloon and Three Links. With a little work finding the right live music venue and making sure you have all your equipment and planning in order, you can easily draw a crowd and put on an incredibly successful concert.
Lower taxes
This helps when you think about renting a music venue or buying or renting equipment. Lower taxes equals a lower overall cost for many things. This also means that folks have a bit more money to spend going to concerts.
Great weather
For the most part, the weather in Dallas is spectacular. This means that people are always wanting to go out and do things. It's a considerable benefit if your concert venue features an outdoor setting or you're performing at an open-air live music venue for special guests.
Cost of living
While the taxes might be lower, the average cost of living in Dallas is quite high for the area. This means that while you’ll save some money on taxes, rent prices could still be higher than you expect. It’s a good idea to keep your budget in mind and shop around when picking things out for your music concert.
Driving is a nightmare
Dallas is a large city with a large population. Like most large cities, this makes owning a car and driving around a hassle during peak times. It might be worth considering the walkability factor when picking out a concert space or at least looking at how much parking there is for everyone involved: band, crew, and audience.
Poor public transit
If you’re thinking that the bus might be a better option than driving, then you may want to reconsider walking. For a city of its size, Dallas’s public transit system is poorly equipped. It might be a good idea to invest in alternative means of transport or make sure necessary amenities are nearby.
The Dallas World Aquarium
If you’re looking for something to do before or after your live music concert, then The Dallas World Aquarium is something worth seeing. Situated in the Deep Ellum district, this aquarium/zoo showcases plants, animals, fish, and birds from across the globe, offering an array of sights for everyone to enjoy, complete with a genuine tropical rainforest exhibit.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
If you’re interested in an important and impactful piece of American history, then you simply must visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. The solid marble monument resembling a tomb stands imposingly as it both honors and mourns the assassination of one of America’s most beloved presidents.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
If nature, plants, and beauty are more of a thing for you, then the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a place you have to visit. Featuring a wide array of plants as well as sculpture exhibits, there’s always something to see. Plus, the daily events, such as trivia nights at the garden, mean there’s always fun to be had, even if you’ve seen the latest exhibit.