As a musician who’s been playing for 19 years and performing in bands for 13, I’ve seen a lot of the Columbus music scene. Some bands rise to the occasion and keep pushing out great music, while others fade away quickly.
That’s why I’m narrowing this list down to the acts that consistently stand out through either regular local performances, frequent studio releases, or both, and should be rewarded with bigger shows at bigger venues!
This isn’t just a list of every band I like… (though I do like all of them). It’s a selection of artists who have proven themselves over time. If you’re looking to dive into the Columbus music scene, these are the ones to check out.
Chances are, they’re playing somewhere nearby really soon.
Hoodoo Soul Band
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Hoodoo Soul Band has been playing every Sunday night for the last 27 years, holding down one of the longest-running residencies in the Midwest. Rumba Café hosts the show, and the vibe is unmatched — a rather affordable cover charge gets you into one of the most fun and funky regular shows in the city.
The room is consistently a total vibe, and their unique arrangements of popular songs keep people coming back again and again (hence the 27 year long Sunday night residency). The music starts around 9 PM.
Parker Louis
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I first discovered Parker Louis back in 2015 when he was releasing music with Forest and the Evergreens, a band I still love to this day (they aren’t active, but songs “Moving Day,” “Pfunk,” and the unreleased “Miss Molly” still have a special place in my heart). These days, he’s been focusing on his solo work, and it’s been incredible to watch him evolve.
His music leans heavily into R&B, with lots of soul and some pop influences sprinkled in. I’m a big fan of the dark atmosphere in tracks like “Gemini,” “Rise,” and “Vibe.” Parker has a way of pulling you into his world, and I’m always eager to hear what he’s working on next.
Robert Mason / Robert Mason Trio
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I first heard Robert Mason and his Trio (featuring Reggie Jackson on drums and Joshua Hill on guitar) at Land-Grant during their Strawberry Festival in 2022, and I was instantly hooked. As a drummer, I couldn’t help but to stop Reggie after the show and give him his props… that cat can playyyyy!
The whole group’s musicianship blew me away — this is jazz fusion and soul music at its best. What really stood out was how much fun they had playing together… it was contagious. You can catch Robert Mason at spots like Natalie’s in Grandview and the Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge in the Short North. If you’re into jazz or just love seeing top-tier musicians having a blast, don’t sleep on this trio.
Doc Robinson
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Doc Robinson has been steadily making waves, with multiple songs racking up millions of streams on Spotify thanks to their steady touring, recording, and having songs featured in shows like Bojack Horseman. They’ve opened for bands like Caamp (another Columbus success story) and The Brook & The Bluff, and their sound keeps evolving in exciting ways.
Their latest album, Joyride, came out in October 2024 and leans into indie rock, pop, and even Southern rock influences, which can be heard in songs like “Joyride” and “Outta My Mind.” They’re not afraid to experiment, and it shows. Whether you’re streaming their music or catching them live, Doc Robinson is a band you’ll want to say you knew before they blew up.
Tony Monaco Trio
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The first time I saw Tony Monaco was during a late night set at Woodlands Tavern in Grandview, and I’ve been a fan ever since. Watching him play the Hammond organ is like seeing someone truly in their element — he makes it look effortless, like it’s an extension of his body.
Tony is a Columbus legend for good reason. His music blends jazz, R&B, and gospel, and every performance feels like a masterclass. If you get the chance to see him live, take it — you won’t regret it.
North to Nashville
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North to Nashville is easily one of the most prolific country bands in Central Ohio. Formed in 2018, they’ve already opened for huge names like Luke Combs, Eric Church, and Darius Rucker. Their debut self-titled album, released in June 2023, even cracked the Top 10 on iTunes’ Country Albums chart.
Their single “Whisperin’” topped Music Row’s Top 40 Country Breakout chart, and their live shows are always a great time. Influenced by artists like Chris Stapleton and Brooks & Dunn, they’ve got the talent and work ethic to become Ohio’s next big country act. Check their website for upcoming shows — you’ll want to catch them live while they’re still a local treasure (and charging local prices!).
Final Thoughts (An Encore, of Sorts)
Columbus has a thriving music scene, and these six acts are the cream of the crop. Whether you’re into jazz, soul, R&B, indie, or country, there’s something here for everyone. So, grab a friend, head to a show, and support the incredible talent right in our backyard.
What are your favorite local bands? Let me know — I’m always looking for my next favorite!
(And if your band needs a drummer who can hold it down, you know where to find me! 😉)
Did we miss one? Send us a note!