Radio is a bar and live music destination featuring cover bands performing a mix of songs that you can both dance and sing along to. 

The space located in The Ballroom's second floor can still be reserved for events, but between Thursday through Saturday nights the dial turns and it becomes Radio. 

For Radio, owner Noel Copeman rebuilt the room's sound and light systems, expanded the stage, and added a smoke machine. 

Copeman knows how to take an empty space and re-purpose it into a vibrant nightlife environment. Back in 2015, he designed and built UG3 Live, then did the same for Underground Garage and UG Loft. 

Unfortunately, these spots were forced to close during lockdowns, just like other live music venues that lost significant business in the last few years. 

Copeman tells blogTO his goal with opening Radio is to introduce the resurgence of live music in a space that isn't a concert stadium, but rather an intimate joint to have fun with friends. 

The interior of Radio is set up with a wrap-around bar in the centre. Here, patrons can order a drink from the bartender no matter which side of the venue they're seated. 

The stage sits in front of the bar. The glow from colourful neon lights cascades from above this area into the rest of the room. 

For those who really want to feel the music, there's a small dance area between the front of the stage and the bar. For others who prefer to enjoy the bands from a distance, there's the lounge in the back. 

If you're looking for more privacy, Radio has seating on their rooftop patio when the weather is decent. Besides comfy couches and heaters, there's a nice night cityscape view. 

The music here varies from weekend to weekend, but in general you'll find bands covering classic hits from the 80's to early 2000's and alternative music from groups like Nirvana. 

Expect standard drinks at Radio. Keeping things simple in their list of beers, shots of rail spirits, and mixed drinks. 

Everyone is welcome, although the majority of those in attendance the night we visited were Millennials and Gen Zs.

I imagine Radio as a spot not only for Torontonians but also people coming from outside of the city looking for a late-night activity after a sports game. There is a cover charge of $10, cash is not accepted. Bands start playing around 11:15 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The venue sits in the heart of the Entertainment District, steps away from Queen on John.