Live music, a curated cocktail program and a swanky yet eclectic atmosphere is typically what you get at the city’s night-time go-to, Vinyl. But now, the 5,000 square-foot venue has added a new way to enjoy its space—Live Band Karaoke.
“We make any song possible, breaking free from traditional karaoke books with our 3-piece band that is ready for anything,” said Ali Wadsworth, creator of the experience, in a statement. “Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned performer, you’ll sound great and feel like a superstar, our crowds are pumped no matter what. Seriously, anyone can do this.”
As a release notes, this midweek pop-up invites Philly to step into the spotlight to perform any track from any artist backed by a live band every Thursday from 8 p.m. to midnight.
The free experience is designed to bring the excitement of a full concert to every performer and guest in the room. “Expect a real stage, lights, backup vocals, amazing drinks, and the best time of your life,” added Ross Binder, Vinyl’s General Manager.
Located in Center City (15th Street between Locust and Walnut streets) Vinyl opened in July of 2023 from owners Rob Wasserman and Josh Zwirzina. The former made a name for himself in Philly with some other hotspots like Rouge, Twenty Manning and Charley Dove, while the latter is known as an entertainment industry vet who has produced concerts at some of the city’s largest venues – like The Filmore, Franklin Music Hall, and Union Transfer.
What Vinyl is meant to be outside of a bar and restaurant, however, is also a nightlife experience with some added flair in a prime location.
The space comes from creative Director Maggie Huth who worked with Otto Architects to complete a look that not only matched the old charm of the city of Brotherly Love, but also offered a way to add some local flavor into the mix with artist David Guinn assisting in the project. The result offers up bold lighting choices mixed in with dark swanky furniture, lounge areas, neon lights, and a massive bar.
From the drinks side of the operation, locals can find an assortment of cocktails ($16-$18) like the Shot of Courage (Hornito’s Blanco, melon, Fresno chili, lim and Tajin), Murder on the Dancefloor (a House Rum Blend, Jagermeister and Banana-Oat Orgea topped with Red Edition Red Bull), Sweet Harmony (rose infused Grey Goose vodka, lemon spiced cranberry and their “Winter Spiced Tincture”) and much more.
Otherwise, Vinyl’s bar will be serving up bottle service for VIP lounge seating, a selection of wines, local beers, mocktails and more. And food-wise, the space has sought to combine indulgent choices with bite-sized options (think whipped ricotta, crispy chicken sliders, tuna ceviche, a chorizo flatbread, and more).
Vinyl (215 S 5th St.) is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Happy hour is offered Thursday through Saturday 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit vinylphilly.com
