According to Stevie Wonder, “Music is a world within itself/ With a language we all understand.” Its history spans decades, its genres are prolific and it’s constantly progressing: Classical music’s melodious symphonies eventually paved the way for the guitar-laden tunes of rock ‘n’ roll and the catchy pop songs of today. As tunes have evolved, some cities have garnered more of a reputation than others for preserving music’s narrative. The rich history that pulses through these destinations is evident in the memorabilia-filled museums and epic festivals each city is known for, like Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and Jamaica‘s Reggae Sumfest. So if you want to make your next vacation all about music, you’re in luck: U.S. News highlighted six cities that celebrate their greatest musical achievements in a range of ways.
Amsterdam
If you love… Electronic Dance Music
Calling card: Mysteryland
Electronic Dance Music (more commonly known as EDM) has risen in popularity over the years thanks to its upbeat tempo, danceability and the variety of concerts and festivals that celebrate the genre. Mainstream artists like Rihanna and Pharrell have incorporated electronic elements into their own songs, further contributing to the growth of EDM. Some of the world’s biggest DJs, such as Tiësto, Hardwell and Afrojack, hail from the Netherlands — meaning the country’s capital should be on every EDM fan’s bucket list. Amsterdam hosts an entire season of EDM festivals, including the massive Mysteryland in late August, as well as a few fall events. Mysteryland’s daylong festival, held about 15 miles east of the city center in an open field in Haarlemmermeer, features several stages with performances from big-name DJs like Hardwell, Steve Aoki and Kaskade, along with up-and-coming local artists. Plus, when you get back to the city you can explore Amsterdam’s lively club scene at spots like Studio 80 or Escape.
Cleveland
If you love… Rock ‘n’ roll
Calling card: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum
Los Angeles
If you love… Pop Music
Calling card: Hollywood Bowl
Los Angeles is so closely associated with Hollywood, people may forget about its strong music industry presence. L.A. boasts massive venues, such as the Hollywood Bowl, the STAPLES Center and the Rose Bowl, which host hundreds of pop concerts each year. Meanwhile, smaller sites like The Wiltern, Greek Theatre and House of Blues grant music lovers a more intimate experience. Headliners like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, One Direction and Boyce Avenue will perform at venues around town this summer. Festival-wise, you can enjoy sun and songs outdoors at the Budweiser Made in America Festival — John Mayer, Rita Ora and Imagine Dragons, among other acts, are set to perform in Grand Park August 30 and 31. Los Angeles is also home to the GRAMMY Museum, where you can learn more about your favorite Grammy Award-winning artists, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can see musicians’ names (including the Backstreet Boys, Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears) written among the stars. Scores of recording studios are situated throughout the city, and because L.A. is such a desirable place to see and be seen, chances are you may even bump into some famous musicians on the street.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
If you love… Reggae
Calling card: Reggae Sumfest
Vienna
If you love… Classical Music
Calling card: House of Music
Mozart. Schubert. Strauss. Beethoven. These are just a few of the famous classical composers who lived or worked in Vienna. Grab a map or sign up for a guided walking tour and discover the homes where these musicians created masterful symphonies, sonatas and concertos. For a more comprehensive overview of Vienna’s musical greats and the classical music scene, plan a visit to the House of Music (Haus der Musik). Four floors of exhibits display everything from the personal items and wardrobes of Mozart and Beethoven to the history of the Vienna Philharmonic. Think you’ve got what it takes to command the best? The interactive Virtual Conductor allows you to try — you’ll lead the musicians (projected on a video screen) with a baton and they’ll follow your cue. But if you mess up, beware: They won’t hold back the ridicule. Vienna is also home to the Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof), where you can see the ornate headstones and statues that mark the final resting place of many well-admired composers, including Beethoven, Brahms and Schubert. Finally, when you’re ready to immerse yourself in some live classical music, cap off your visit with tickets to a Vienna Philharmonic, Vienna Boys Choir or Mozart Orchestra concert.
Nashville
If you love… Country Music
Calling card: Grand Ole Opry
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