SOBs, short for Sounds of Brazil, is a legendary nightclub and live music venue located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. Established in 1982 by Larry Gold, SOBs emerged as a cornerstone for world music and multicultural expression in the United States. The venue quickly became synonymous with the celebration of global sounds, particularly Latin, Brazilian, Caribbean, African, and hip-hop music.

Over the decades, SOBs has fostered a reputation as a melting pot of international rhythms and a crucial launchpad for emerging artists. Its intimate setting—combining a vibrant club atmosphere with a spacious dance floor and full-service restaurant—has made it a favorite among both performers and audiences seeking close interaction and authentic musical experiences. SOBs has not experienced major changes in its location, remaining at its iconic spot at 204 Varick Street in SoHo, but it has continually adapted to the evolving musical landscape by featuring various genres and by collaborating with contemporary promoters and festivals.

The venue’s contribution to the culture of New York can be seen not only in the artists it hosts but also in its influence on the global appreciation of diverse music styles and its commitment to social and cultural causes. Many music fans consider SOBs to be a rite of passage for artists as they ascend from obscurity to wider fame, and it has played a vital role in the American careers of many international superstars. Notable artists who have performed at SOBs include Brazilian icons like Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, and Jorge Ben Jor; acclaimed international acts such as Femi Kuti, Angelique Kidjo, and Cesária Évora; prominent Latino artists including Marc Anthony, Tito Puente, and Aventura; hip-hop and R&B luminaries such as Kanye West, Drake, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, Kendrick Lamar, and Alicia Keys; reggae legends like Shaggy, Sean Paul, and Buju Banton; as well as countless rising stars, local acts, and underground sensations spanning jazz, soul, and contemporary experimental genres.