Ghosts of the Guitar: 4 of Rock’s Most Haunted Venues

Halloween is around the corner, but spooky happenings don’t just take place around the spookiest holiday of the year. These four famous US rock music venues reportedly are (or were) haunted, according to reports from visitors, employees, and musicians alike. Let’s take a look, shall we?

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1. Congress Theater – Chicago, IL

This famous venue, which hosted a wealth of musical acts in genres from rock to classical music, closed back in 2013 and is in the process of being renovated today. But back in the day, it was quite a haunted location. Some guests have reported seeing the apparition of a woman as well as other figures. Other reported footsteps despite nothing being there and some strange noises throughout its halls. ZZ Top famously recorded their VH1 Storytellers episode there.

2. Avalon – Hollywood, CA

Out of all the haunted venues on this list, the otherworldly guests that have been seen, heard, or smelled at this famous Hollywood venue are quite tame. Originally known as Hollywood Playhouse, this haunted venue is known for its resident spirit, who enjoys playing the piano at odd hours. Reports of disembodied perfume and a man in a suit have also raised a few eyebrows. Famous rock bands like Nirvana, Nine Inch Nails, and The Beatles performed at this venue.

3. Ryman Auditorium – Nashville, TN

This famous venue is known for country and Southern rock acts alike. This historical site first opened its doors in the late 1800s and has been going strong since. Originally constructed by Thomas Ryman and named the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the venue was later renamed after the man who built it. And according to a few guests and employees, Ryman’s apparition will occasionally appear during performances. Allegedly, Hank Williams, Sr. also haunts the venue on occasion.

4. Masquerade – Atlanta, GA

This Atlanta venue was relocated back in 2016, but its original spot earned a reputation for being haunted. Originally located at the DuPre Excelsior Mill, this venue creeped out quite a few guests and employees. Some reported seeing a tall man lurking around the premises, as well as shockingly cold spots in the air and loud “screams” heard from a specific staircase. Alice In Chains, Blink-182, and many other rock outfits have performed at this famous venue.

Photo by Uwe Kraft/imageBROKER/Shutterstock

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