06/07/2026
I’m sitting here pondering how amazing last night’s show with Ward Davis and Jacksonville’s own Patrick Longmeyer was and I realized we just wrapped up 5 years of this. When we opened our doors 5 years ago, booking agents wouldn’t take my calls or even respond to my emails and we could only dream of hosting artists like Ward Davis on our stage. Heck, it took me a couple years to convince The Longmeyer Band to play here the first time!
As I sit here looking out at this property remembering the weeds and condemned buildings that sat here before we built this place, I just wanted to say a quick thank you to all the folks that helped along the way and all who have come out here to enjoy a show, a community event or just a glass of wine or beer. Every little bit helps.
With some operating history and added capacity behind us, booking agents are taking notice and we’re making a little progress. We have been proud to host a number of grammy winners, Grand Ole Opry members and platinum-selling artists to our stages with more to come. The legendary singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell will be here with very special guest Sunny Sweeney June 21st. You won’t want to miss that one.
While the live music, bar and event business is one of the toughest businesses in one of the most strained economic environments I have ever experienced, it feels like we’re starting to crack the code a bit. We try to put up free shows when the economics work and we try to keep ticket prices as affordable as possible for touring artists. I can only imagine how tough it is to make it as a touring artist or band in this environment.
Live music in small venues remains one of the best values for your hard-earned dollar in today’s market. I’ll share one of my favorite compliments from a guy who attended one of our ticketed shows. He came up to me after the artist on stage received a standing ovation and said “That was the best 20 bucks I’ve spent in a long time.”
Several local venues are out there trying to keep live music going and helping support the artists and musicians who make it. There are some great shows coming up at the Morgan County Fair, the Friday night concert series in Downtown Jacksonville, Danenberger Family Vineyards, Boondocks, the Backroom Listening Lounge, Amvets Post 100, Don’s Place and others. Nothing can lift you up and take your mind off things for a while like live music so get out there and enjoy some of it!
Thanks again for 5 years and keep an eye on our page for our next chapter. Got some cool stuff in the works!
Mike
