Fayetteville has long been known as the cultural epicenter and entertainment headquarters of the region, and one huge reason is the live-music scene, especially along the famed Dickson Street that lies between the Historic Downtown Square and University of Arkansas campus.

Establishments like George’s Majestic Lounge — the oldest and longest-running club and live music venue in Arkansas — continue to bill incredible acts, showcasing to Fayetteville and its visitors the best in local, regional and national acts. Also, Fayetteville venues feature a variety of genres: rock, alternative, country, bluegrass, folk, blues, jazz, hip-hop, EDM … if you can dance to it, we’ve got it.

With Fayetteville being geographically located between legendary American music cities Kansas City, St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, Austin, Dallas and Tulsa, the city has served as a musical crossroads and heralded stop for many up-and-coming acts, thanks to a vibrant nightlife scene and the community’s deep appreciation for live music.

Because of the community’s support for the arts, Fayetteville is a great place to be a musician, and homegrown talent continues to be recognized. It most famously includes rockabilly legend Ronnie Hawkins, who brought to Fayetteville some of rock ‘n’ roll’s earliest pioneers, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbinson and Conway Twitty. Several members of Hawkins’ backing band, The Hawks — Levon Helm, Robbie Robertson, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel and Garth Hudson — would go on to form The Band.

Music is always a part of whatever’s going on in Fayetteville, whether it’s buskers at the Farmer’s Market or renowned performers at the Fayetteville Roots Festival. Live music is always in the air in Fayetteville, so no matter what brings you to town, make sure to keep your ears open.

Need more convincing? Check out this video about Fayetteville’s music scene: