Myrtle Beach’s Mark on American Music History

Myrtle Beach may be known for its sandy beaches and family fun, but the town has played an important role in music throughout history. From its early days as a beach music hub to its modern-day draw as a hotspot for the best local talent and national touring acts, this city by the sea continues to uphold and expand its musical roots. A visit to this idyllic Atlantic gem wouldn’t be complete without a tour of some of its most iconic venues.

Start with one of the region’s most historic spots. The Hot Fish Club, located on the popular (and stunning) Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, was founded in the late 1700s by the planters of All Saints Parish. The social club was dedicated to “Great Food, Great Drink, and Lively Conversation,” and the current location pays tribute to its roots through its fresh seafood and coastal fare and its beloved outdoor music venue, the Gazebo. Local bands take to the stage of the “Zeebo” (to those in the know) to play beach music, reggae, funk, and more in celebration of the club’s long-standing tradition—pairing great meals with great music in true Lowcountry fashion

But that’s not Myrtle Beach’s only centuries-old music venue. Charlie’s Place was a popular African American nightclub and hotel owned by Charlie Fitzgerald and his wife, Sarah, from the 1930s to the 1960s. Prior to integration, the club provided a musical home for African American artists to perform, including Dizzy Gillespie, Little Richard, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and more. Today, the sites of the club, hotel, and Fitzgerald’s home serve as a historic landmark, community center, and museum, paying tribute to the impact that Charlie’s Place—and the music born out of the region—has made on the world.

Just 50 yards from the Atlantic Ocean sits The Bowery. Open seven days a week, this “world famous” local landmark has been a must-visit for millions of music lovers since it first opened in 1944. With fantastic local bands, cold drinks, and a “ya can’t beat fun” attitude, The Bowery is the place to hear some of music’s next big acts. In fact, from 1973 to 1980, the hotspot’s house band was none other than Alabama. The superstar country group and Country Music Hall of Fame members used to play for tips each night. Now, The Bounty Hunters take the stage nightly to bring their own magnetic energy to the party—often sharing the stage with some well-known guest singers—and holding court in true superstar fashion.

You can’t talk about the Myrtle Beach music scene and not mention the state dance, the shag. Born out of the beach music for which the region is known, there’s no better place to learn or practice your shag than its unofficial birthplace, Fat Harold’s Beach Club. Known as the “Home of the Shag,” Fat Harold’s is a North Myrtle Beach institution where some of the best beach music bands still play. And, of course, newbies can come by to master the dance and learn new steps in Monday classes with Charlie and Jackie or stop by on Tuesdays for free lessons from Mandy and River. Then, bring your A-game on the weekends and dance in the front and back rooms.

The evolution of live music in Myrtle Beach can arguably be traced back to one man, Calvin Gilmore, and his belief that first-rate entertainment could thrive along The Grand Strand. On May 2, 1986, Gilmore opened The Carolina Opry Theater, a musical experience unlike any other in the area. 12 performers (including Gilmore) took the stage every night, but as the show’s popularity grew, so did the company–and the crowds. In 1989, Gilmore opened his second theater in North Myrtle Beach, The Dixie Jubilee. Just a few years later, with sold-out nightly crowds clamoring for more, Gilmore opened his third theater on The Grand Strand. Since then, The Carolina Opry has continued to grow its legacy in the music world. In fact, South Carolina’s first weekly television series, “Country Music Spotlight,” was broadcast live from the theater on The Family Channel. The show featured Gilmore and performers from the theater performing alongside Merle Haggard, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Kris Kristofferson, Travis Tritt, John Michael Montgomery, the Gatlin Brothers, Martina McBride, and Patty Loveless. In May of 2026, The Carolina Opry will celebrate 40 years of music, and today, its commitment to music in Myrtle Beach continues—both in its nightly local shows and its shows with guest performers, the likes of Kenny G, The Marshall Tucker Band, Michael W. Smith, and more.

Nearly 30 years ago on May 4, 1997, House of Blues opened its local doors, ushering in a modern era for music in Myrtle Beach. With its gospel brunches, rock shows, and eclectic vibe, it’s one of the region’s premier concert venues—and a reminder that Myrtle Beach still draws stars. The beloved outdoor space. The Deck, has played host to some iconic names, including Soulja Boy and 38 Special, but it also serves as a happening hot spot for visitors and locals alike to take in Myrtle Beach–     born talent, not to mention some incredible tribute concerts to legendary acts like The Doors, Led Zeppelin, and The Police.

Proving that the future of music in Myrtle Beach is limitless, this year the Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF) will celebrate its 10^th anniversary with the biggest lineup yet. A symbol of Myrtle Beach’s transformation into a major player on the national music scene, this bold beachfront idea has become one of the largest outdoor country music festivals in the Southeast—drawing tens of thousands of fans and major headliners to the oceanfront each year. Headliners for the 2025 show include Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll—who bring even more star power to the city and prove that it remains a beacon for major talent. It’s just one more reminder that Myrtle Beach is in the midst of a live music renaissance—growing, thriving, and louder than ever.