Atlanta’s music scene is officially the best in the U.S. Forget Nashville and L.A.; this city’s got the numbers to back it up.
Atlanta, Georgia, has officially been recognized as the top music destination in the United States, according to a recent study conducted by Spin Genie. The entertainment analytics firm utilized data from various reputable sources, including the World Population Review and LinkedIn, to evaluate U.S. metropolitan areas based on several metrics such as musical events, music-related employment opportunities, and the density of venues.
With an impressive overall score of 8.74 out of 10, Atlanta outshined traditional music hubs like Nashville, Tennessee, and Los Angeles. This score reflects the city’s vibrant music culture and the wealth of opportunities available for artists and music professionals.
Atlanta’s performance across all evaluated categories was remarkable. The city boasts a significant number of music-related job openings, which has undoubtedly contributed to its thriving artist community. Currently, there are 188 upcoming music events and 25 venues for every 100,000 residents, making it easy for music lovers to enjoy live performances regularly.
The high concentration of musical events and job opportunities may be a driving factor behind Atlanta’s impressive number of artists. The city is home to over 570 musicians per 100,000 residents. This figure highlights its role as a nurturing ground for talent, with notable stars like Usher, Ludacris, and Ciara emerging from this vibrant community.
Analysts from Spin Genie acknowledged that while Atlanta’s ranking might come as a surprise, especially against established centers like Nashville and L.A., the city’s rich musical history and contributions to the industry are undeniable. Dubbed the unofficial capital of hip-hop, Atlanta’s influence on music spans multiple genres and generations, securing its place as a leading music city.
