|
|
 BB's,
the St. Louis Jazz and Blues Nightclub, was originally started in
1976 by Bob Burkhardt and Mark O'Shaughnessy. This first incarnation
ran well into 1977. Typical Burkation woodworks, funky antiques, wood
burning stove and art posters punctuated the busy eclectic atmosphere.
In music, Blues, Jazz, and Rhythm & Blues ruled. But alas the
first BB's drew to a close a little over a year and a half from when
it started.
A new business structure was created from 1980 - 81 for BB's second
incarnation. BB's reopened and once again became a vital force in
the St. Louis music scene, this time bringing Jazz artists like Earl
Hines, Betty Carter, James Moody and Eddie Harris to the St. Louis
marketplace as well as returning Blues favorites like Henry Townsend,
Roosevelt Sykes, Yank Rachell & Sunnyland Slim to its stage.
Once
again the popularity of the Blues was still far from what it is today
and BB's took a hiatus as a keeper of the alternative music flame.
Fifteen years would intervene.
On June 15, 1996, BB's Jazz, Blues & Soups Inc. opened for the
third time as a Jazz & Blues Nightclub & Restaurant. BB's
is able to seat about 150 people. Our goal is to open the
2nd floor for further gallery seating and dining (up to a 350 person
seating capacity). There are also plans for the addition of a music
walk of fame (St. Louis Music Milestones) of sidewalk inlaid plaques,
with musicians' handprints and historical legends for the building's
outdoor perimeter so that we may honor musicians who have lent their
names to St. Louis' Music History. |
|
