You find yourself sitting in a casino, double fisting cocktails, whipping out your credit card like it’ll never max out, and then you suddenly ask yourself, “Who the heck actually lives in Las Vegas”?
I do.
I am Chadwick Johnson, a local singer-songwriter who lives in Northwest Las Vegas roughly 10 miles away from the Las Vegas Strip. I even have a horse in my backyard. Totally true, I am an accomplished horseman who still frequents the rodeo circuit. But that’s another story for another time. The point is diversity of lifestyle is strong in Sin City, so buckle your prizewinning rodeo belt and come along for this ride.
Now, although there are about 300,000 people who make their living in the Nevada tourism industry, the rest of the city is booming in a whole other way. Las Vegas offers a complex and diverse culture that goes way beyond decadent restaurants, high-rolling slot machines and weddings performed by Elvis impersonators.
One of the prominent subcultures of Las Vegas is the arts community. Specifically, live music. We all know of the golden era of The Rat Pack and Ol’ Blue Eyes headlining the finest music venues on the Strip. Well, truth be told, it’s never gone away. There is a whole new generation of live music enthusiasts and artists who are songwriters, headliners and curators.
I know, your mind is blown. Just like your getaway budget.
Live music is thriving in Las Vegas, and I’m about to let you in on some of my favorite hidden gems in the local scene. You may just find artists like me headlining in some of these delightful throwback venues that are stomping grounds for Las Vegas residents. But don’t worry: All cocktailgripping visitors are welcome, too.
The Italian American Club
Talk about retro, this Italian joint is a complete throwback to the good ole days where authentic Italian cuisine was paramount and where everyone seems suspect to possible Mob ties. I’m kidding! Or am I? We will never know. What we do know is that everyone feels like family, and there is live music every night of the week, whether it’s in their charming lounge or their Showroom, where I’ve headlined with my band more than I can count.
The Legacy Club at Circa Resort and Casino
To make room for this sleek new property, three Downtown establishments were demolished: The Las Vegas Club, Mermaids Casino and the infamous Glitter Gulch Strip Club, which still makes me giggle. But that, too, is another story. Back to Circa, I love this place, especially The Legacy Club. I recently had my album release party there, and between the mixologist’s specialty drinks and the spectacular views of the Strip, this experience should not be missed.
Myron’s at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
Year after year, this venue is ranked in the Top 10 performing art centers in the world. This is one of my favorite venues, and if you check out the October calendar, you’ll see me on Oct. 8 headlining my new show, where I’ll be featuring music from my forthcoming EP, “Seasons Change.”
Now, I would love to share more of the inside scoop, but I gotta run. But know this: You just made friends with a local Las Vegan (not to be confused with someone who only eats plant-based foods). The point is connect with me on Facebook @chadwickofficial, Instagram @chadwickjohnsonmusic and TikTok @chadwickjohnsonmusic or, heck, send me a smoke signal. And I might just give you more insider tips. Happy drinking – and just tell yourself you’ve already won.
