Good places to go for live music in Chicago?

All great answers so far! I'd add Schubas, Lincoln Hall, and Martyrs' to the mix. I've played and seen a bunch of shows at these spots, and they're all great venues with character.

For music with soul House of Blues and Jazz Showcase are a must. B.L.U.E.S. and Kingston Mines are sister venues that play local bands everyday of the week. Rosa's Lounge Is arguably called the best blues bar in Chicago.

To see up an coming bands go to Metro and the Beat Kitchen.  There is tons of music in this city so it's best to check out Time Out or another publication to see who will be where when you visit. Enjoy!

I agree with Alejandro about some of those blues bars!

I was in Chicago for a few days last October, and we had a great night at Kingston Mines and its sister bar across the street, B.L.U.E.S.. Cover for one gets you into both bars, or at least it did the night we went.

For something totally different, we found Chicago's country bar Bub City had a live band playing their own country songs and covers of old favorites.

I agree with all the other suggestions. My favorite places for live music are definitely Lincoln Hall, Metro, and Rosa's Lounge. I recently went to Thalia Hall and liked it. It is a nice space with great sound. While you are there you can check out Punch House in the basement! Empty Bottleis also a good one to check out. Have fun!

You might want to sign up for Jam Mail's email's or the Chicago Reader's early warnings to see who's coming to Chicago.  Or just check out either one of their websites.  Besides the places mentioned, the The Green Mill is a historic bar on the northside that has jazz, I've seen other folks recommend Andy's Jazz Club, Buddy Guy's Legends for blues, the Riviera Theatre and the Aragon Entertainment Center (that should say Aragon Ballroom) have more rock oriented offerings.

The Chicago Reader is a free publication that you can pick up once here to see what other venues have things that look interesting.

There's a plethora of great blues joints like Buddy Guy's Legends and Kingston Mines, as well as B.L.U.E.S.. B.L.U.E.S. is really cozy.

For all types of music, venues like The Subterranean in Wicker Park and the Double Door are fantastic for smaller shows -- check out the bands that are playing and if there's anything that strikes your fancy it's worth going. 

On Sundays, House of Blues has a gospel brunch that's a blast. Full of energy and a great breakfast buffet. 

Check out Kingston Mines for the best Chicago blues experience. Also, The Redhead Piano Bar, Park West, Space (in Evanston) or Lincoln Hall.  

Well, if you're in Chicago, you just have to hear the blues, right?  Ignore all the places downtown, they're really for tourists.  To hear real, sweet home Chicago blues, go north to Halsted Street.  There are two great places: Kingston Mines and B.L.U.E.S..  Personally, I prefer Kingston Mines -- they have two stages and two halls so the music literally never stops.  And you want character? The owner is most definitely one -- he introduces every act, and is one of those old guys with a raspy voice that's pure whiskey and cigarettes.  Don't expect white tablecloths or even great service.  But if you're looking for an experience, this is real blues, Chicago-style.  Enjoy!

Definitely Kingston Mines!  Perfect Chicago Blues experience :)

If you like HipHop, I would go to aliveOne on a Friday or Saturday night. You have to go passed the first bar and into the bar in the back. At first glance, you may not even know it's there. The DJ has been amazing every time I have gone. Also, as mentioned already, Kingston Mines and B.L.U.E.S. are very close by in case you aren't "feeling it". 

Lots of great places for music here. For classic Chicago Blue there is Blue Chicago or Kingston Mines.  A venue called Lincoln Hall is more of a mid level venue but probably has the best acoustics. There is Double Door and Schubas which are smaller but always have AWESOME shows. Then your fun classic Chicago places will be The Vic Theatre Riviera Theatre and Metro Also, here is a list by a local Chicago Mag with more. http://chicagoist.com/2013/12/04/the_best_music_venues_in_chicago.php

Hi Sanna! I would recommend grabbing some tickets to go see The Million Dollar Quartet at Apollo Theater Chicago. The tickets are cheap and the show is a lot of fun! The music is performed live and is fun to clap along to. You'll hear some Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and other rock 'n' roll classics. I went with my dad and had a great time! Would love to go again!