Melbourne is one of the world’s best music cities, delivering a vibrant and energetic music scene to locals and tourists alike.
One of the best ways to take in our music history is via the Melbourne Music Walk. Recently, we caught up with Melbourne-based pop band FERLA, and took in our favourite stops on the ultimate music fan’s walking tour.
Australian Music Vault, Arts Centre Melbourne
This iconic architectural landmark has showcased some of the best of Australian and international performing arts for over 30 years. The Arts Centre is currently hosting the Australian Music Vault, a must-see exhibit that celebrates the story of Australian contemporary music. It features items handpicked from the thousands of archival pieces stored below.
Forum Melbourne
Formerly the State Theatre, the beautiful and iconic Forum opened in 1929 with the largest seating capacity of any theatre in Australia. Currently, the recently revamped Forum is split into two venues. The downstairs section is known for its architecture, large stage, and cabaret style booths, whereas upstairs is a smaller venue with tiered seating, a small stage and a cinema screen.
AC/DC Lane
Officially opened by former Lord Mayor John So with the words “let us rock”, AC/DC Lane is a tribute to the famous Australian rock‘n’roll band. Come for the life-sized statue of Bon Scott.
Amphlett Lane
The Divinyls frontwoman Chrissy Amphlett put Australian rock on the map, and in return her name is now permanently etched into the CBD grid. The laneway features artwork of Amphlett’s signature schoolgirl uniform and her precious dogs. Located behind both the Princess Theatre and the Palace, the laneway even touches two venues where Amphlett famously performed.
Heartland Records
Opened in 1992, this independent record store has been stocking an extensive range of genres for decades, including the latest releases and an extensive back catalogue of vinyl, CD, and DVD. There’s also plenty of merchandise. They pride themselves on their customer service, and the owner is always up for a chat.
Bourke St
This bustling street is not only known for its large array of retail shops, but also for its buskers. On a sunny day, there’s no way one can walk between Australia’s two most iconic department stores without hearing some great live music. Who knows, you may just catch the next Pierce Brothers or Tash Sultana – both performed here as unknown upstarts once upon a time.
Melbourne Town Hall
Completed all the way back in 1870, Melbourne Town Hall is at the heart of both the city’s cultural and civic activity. The heritage listed site has hosted theatre, receptions and exhibitions. On a tour of the Town Hall you can stand on the portico where both the Beatles and ABBA waved at their adoring fans.
Loop Project Space + Bar
Loop is the bustling hub at the heart of Melbourne’s arts community, providing a space for emerging artists, filmmakers, DJs, writers and activists to share their work. The daily program is ever-changing, so you’re bound to see something new – not to mention the beautiful rooftop bar.
Cookie, The Toff in Town, Magic Mountain and Revolver Upstairs
Presented by the same team, live music with local and international DJs basically every night a week. A must for fans of techno.
Cherry Bar
Cherry has been a mainstay since it opened in 1999, and today it is internationally famous as a late-night rock‘n’roll street bar with live bands til after 11pm and DJs keeping it going ‘til early the next morning. Cherry Bar famously knocked back a booking from Lady Gaga – until she showed up in fishnets and underwear to dance the night away to metal classics atop the bar in 2014.
