Early morning, paved promenade, green grass lawn and palm trees against Moses Mabhida Stadium and  blue cloudy sky background in Durban, South Africa
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The best places to watch live music in Durban

Sometimes all you need is a night out and great music. We’ve rounded up Durban’s best places for exactly that...

Amy Fraser
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When it comes to live concerts and music festivals, I feel like there are two types of people: those who love it and feel truly alive in those moments, and those who would much rather be at home or in a nice jazz bar.

Both groups are valid, but if we’re being honest, I fall into the latter. A cosy cocktail bar, tapas, and live music? I’m there. A music festival or large concert? Forget about it. I promise my feelings won’t be hurt if you don’t invite me.

Luckily, Durban offers both: large venues where you have that moment of scanning the crowd, trying to grasp how many people share a love for the same artist or band, and smaller, more intimate spaces where you can get up close with the artist or DJ.

So whichever group you fall into, we’ve rounded up the best live music venues in Durban. 

Oh, and while we're at it, we've also rounded up the best pubs and bars and clubs in Durban!

TIME OUT RECOMMENDS:

📍 The best things to do in Durban
😋 The best 
restaurants in Durban
🏨 The best hotels in Durban
🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

Best places to watch live music in Durban

1. Durban ICC

From Akon to Michael Bublé, the Durban International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) has long been a stage for world-class international artists. As one of Durban’s premier indoor entertainment venues, it can comfortably host between 3,000 and 6,000 attendees, making it ideal for large-scale concerts and live events.

Address: Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC Complex, 45 Bram Fischer Road, Durban

What’s on next:

  • Durban All White Concert: 14 February
  • Anthony Hamilton: 28 February
  • Sjava 10-Year Tour: 11 April

2. Bean Bag Jazz Lounge

Nestled in the heart of Morningside, Bean Bag Jazz Lounge caters to those who appreciate the finer things. If live jazz paired with a well-crafted drink sounds like the ideal night out, this intimate venue is well worth a visit.

Address: 17 Lilian Ngoyi Rd, Windermere, Berea

What’s on next?

While the exact upcoming line-up has yet to be announced, guests can typically expect the following weekly offerings:

  • Thursday Soul Nights
  • Friday Fusion Sessions
  • Saturday Smooth Jazz Evenings
  • Sunday Brunch & Beats
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3. The Globe

Nestled within the Suncoast Casino, Hotels & Entertainment complex on Suncoast Boulevard, The Globe lives up to its name with its distinctive spherical design. The venue is a popular hub for live music concerts, and with a seating capacity of 2,200, it’s no surprise that many artists choose The Globe as their preferred performance space.

Address: Suncoast Casino, Hotels & Entertainment, Suncoast Boulevard, O. R. Tambo Parade

What’s on next: 

  • A Musical Fusion with Peru & Bala: 28 February

4. The Playhouse Company

The Playhouse Company is a vibrant hub for the performing arts in the heart of Durban. It features several theatres, each with a unique seating layout designed to create an intimate and immersive audience experience. In addition to hosting music concerts by both local and international artists, The Playhouse Company is renowned for its diverse range of theatre productions.

Address: 231 Anton Lembede Street, Durban Central

What’s on next:

  • Live in Concert with Jumbo: 28 February
  • KZN Philharmonic Orchestra: 2026 Summer Symphony Season: 5 and 12 March
  • Somateksi Live in Concert: 28 March
  • Mzukulu Album Tour: 18 April
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5. Moses Mabhida Stadium

Apart from being one of Durban’s most iconic sporting venues and famously hosting matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Moses Mabhida Stadium has also become a top destination for concerts and large-scale music festivals. Over the years, the stadium has welcomed an impressive lineup of performers, from international superstars like Mariah Carey and Snoop Dogg to beloved local legends such as Johnny Clegg and Freshly Ground.

Address: 44 Isaiah Ntshangase Rd, Stamford Hill

What’s on next: At the time of publishing, no upcoming events have been announced. Be sure to keep an eye on the stadium’s official events page for the latest updates.

6. The Barnyard Theatre Suncoast

For those seeking a more intimate live-music experience, the Barnyard Theatre at Suncoast offers exactly that, regularly hosting well-known South African bands and performers. Unlike traditional concert venues with tiered seating, the theatre features long communal tables, allowing guests to enjoy a meal while being entertained by anything from an Elvis tribute to a celebrated local artist.

Address: Suncoast Casino, Suncoast Boulevard, Durban Beach

What’s on next?

  • Elvis & Friends: Back in the Building: 13 to 15 February
  • Rodriguez Tribute: 11 March
  • Elandré: 1 July
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