The recent closure of the 55 Bar marks the end of an era for New York’s vibrant jazz community and its underground live music scene. Known for its intimate setting and the free-flowing creativity it fostered, the 55 Bar had become an iconic landmark in the West Village. Despite its unassuming appearance as a subterranean dive bar next to the historic Stonewall Inn, the venue provided an indispensable space for musicians and fans alike, hosting a treasure trove of memorable performances over nearly four decades.
Opened in 1919 as a neighborhood watering hole, the 55 Bar underwent several transformations before its ultimate reinvention as a home for live music in the 1980s. It was bassist Jeff Andrews who first pioneered the jazz scene there in the mid-’80s, and it wasn’t long before a host of iconic musicians made it their regular hang. The venue became synonymous with cutting-edge performances, particularly in the realms of jazz and fusion.
The intimate nature of the space, coupled with a distinct bohemian charm, made it a haven for aspiring artists to take risks, experiment, and connect with fans and fellow musicians. It wasn’t unusual to see guitarists like Mike Stern, Leni Stern, Wayne Krantz, and Adam Rogers, along with saxophonists like Donny McCaslin and Chris Potter, gracing the stage on a given night. It was the kind of venue where the music spoke louder than any flashy presentation, and the patrons often shared an unspoken understanding that this was a place to experience something truly special.
The 55 Bar was particularly revered by guitarists, who found the venue to be a perfect setting for showcasing their virtuosity and unique voices. As one writer pointed out, “Long before I ever visited the 55, I read about it, no doubt in Guitar Player and Guitar World, in connection with Mike Stern.” The club’s dedication to hosting a wide range of jazz and blues guitarists made it a special spot on the map for both musicians and fans who revered the craft. The performances were often marked by raw, emotional interaction between players, as well as a palpable sense of camaraderie, creating a deep connection between those onstage and the audience. It was a breeding ground for new ideas and an incubator for young talent.
One of the most famous legacies of the 55 Bar was its role in cultivating the careers of musicians who would go on to achieve international acclaim. Perhaps the most notable example is when David Bowie recruited the members of his Blackstar band from the 55 Bar, recognizing the unique talents of saxophonist Donny McCaslin and guitarist Ben Monder. Such stories were common, as the 55 Bar became a place where both established musicians and newcomers could meet, collaborate, and push the boundaries of jazz music.
Sadly, the 55 Bar’s final closure came in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the venue to shut down for 14 months. Despite a valiant fundraising effort involving prominent musicians like Chris Potter and Mike Stern, the financial strain was too great for the club to survive. The pandemic’s devastating effects on live venues across the world were especially felt here, where the venue had once been a bustling hub for musicians and listeners alike.
For many, the loss of the 55 Bar represents more than just the closing of a club; it is the end of an important era in the jazz world. The venue had a reputation for being a true “musicians’ hang,” where musicians could experiment freely, learn from each other, and develop their craft in a supportive environment. Many a jazz legend passed through the club’s doors, and the space itself had become a character in the ongoing evolution of the genre.
While the 55 Bar’s physical space is now gone, its legacy lives on in the countless musicians who performed there and the loyal fans who cherished the experience. The venue’s closure serves as a reminder of how fragile the world of live music can be, especially in the face of unforeseen crises. It also prompts reflection on the importance of maintaining intimate venues where musicians can take risks and audiences can experience the pure joy of spontaneous music-making.
In the wake of this loss, the question arises: where else in New York City will the next generation of jazz musicians find a space like the 55 Bar, where they can hone their craft and connect with a community of listeners who understand the value of live, intimate performances? The 55 Bar will be sorely missed, but its impact on the jazz community is undeniable, and its memory will continue to inspire future generations of musicians who seek to create in the same spirit of spontaneity and innovation. Rest in peace, 55 Bar. You’ll never be forgotten.
Max Millar Music 