We may have grassy roots, but we’re no strangers to star power. Artists like Teddy Swims, Leon Bridges, and Khruangbin have all graced the Sofar stage. From indie geniuses to soon-to-be legends, the Sofar history books are packed with big names that might make you go, “Wait… they played a Sofar show?”
Full disclosure: we sometimes have to pinch ourselves, too, here are some more unforgettable performances by artists you may already know and love.
Chappell Roan | Sofar Los Angeles
Speaking of unforgettable, we couldn’t pass up the chance to spotlight the rise of Midwestern Princess, Chappell Roan. From playing her first Sofar shows in 2019—at a cozy coffee shop in Orange County and a house show in LA (pictured below!)—to commanding a record-breaking crowd at Austin City Limits, we’ve been cheering her on every step of the way. With her #1 hit “Good Luck Babe” released this year, Chappell has quickly amassed over 44 million monthly listeners on Spotify. In case you haven’t caught up on her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, we suggest a no-skips listening session, especially before what we predict to be a successful Grammy nomination.
FINNEAS – Heaven | Sofar NYC
We teased some indie geniuses, and we deliver… LA native, FINNEAS. About two years after his Sofar LA performance (which featured his sister, Billie Eilish), FINNEAS played Sofar NYC with one of his rarer songs, “Heaven”. The performance showcased his vocal range, songwriting abilities, and raw talent. Since his Sofar debut, FINNEAS has continued to make a name for himself. With 10 Grammys and 17 career nominations, he’s a certifiable Sofar legend.
The Beaches – Loner | Sofar NYC
Ex-boyfriends beware: Toronto’s own The Beaches are taking major festival stages and the charts. The Beaches started bringing their infectious mix of rock, punk, and pop to the Sofar stage back in 2015. Known for high-energy performances and lyrical content with an edge, they’ve built a loyal fanbase and scored a major hit with “Blame Brett.” With electric guitar riffs and bold vocals, The Beaches are here to keep things loud, unapologetic, and unforgettable.
Brent Faiyez – Poison | Sofar Los Angeles
Brent Faiyaz has been bringing his soulful R&B sound to new heights since his 2017 Sofar show in LA. Often compared to the likes of Frank Ocean and Daniel Caesar, he’s known for smooth, introspective tracks that resonate with millions—literally, with over 10 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Brent’s album F**k the World was a huge hit, blending vulnerability and attitude in a way that’s timeless R&B.
Karen O – Rapt | Sofar NYC
Yeah Yeah Yeahs legend Karen O appeared at Sofar NYC in 2014 to play the single from her debut (and only) solo album, Crush Songs. She had the crowd, well… rapt during her performance.
In this video, you’ll also see Moses Sumney on stage but he didn’t join Karen O for this particular performance. For your Sumney fix, check out his performance of “Plastic”, filmed at a Sofar just a few months later.
Lianne La Havas – Green & Gold | Sofar London
Pure magic is found with Lianne La Havas, who mixes R&B, folk, and jazz into a sound that’s all her own. Her 2016 Sofar London performance of “Green & Gold” proves it. Effortlessly cool with vocals that make every note go straight to the soul, she’s one of those artists who needs to be on everyone’s intimate soirée playlist. With “Green & Gold” still a fan favorite, there’s no better time to catch her live: See if she’s touring in a city near you!
Which artist will be featured in the next Noteworthy round-up? Find out at a Sofar show near you!
