Grammy Award-winning artist Lucinda Williams is set to bring a taste of the South to New York City with the opening of a new Southern-inspired bar and live music venue. In collaboration with Laura McCarthy, co-founder of renowned East Village spots like Brownies and Lakeside Lounge, the venue will occupy the former location of Brownies at 169 Avenue A.
This new establishment aims to create a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can unwind, enjoy music, and perhaps even share a song or two. It will serve as a tribute to Jeremy Tepper, the late program director of SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country channel, who was a close friend to McCarthy and shared a passion for music. The venue will feature a diverse range of musical events, including weekly bluegrass picking nights, songwriter open mics, and regular live music performances.
Open every weekend from Friday to Sunday, the venue will highlight live music nights, including country bands and a vibrant karaoke scene on Saturday evenings. Notable visual art will accompany the musical theme, with works from acclaimed photographer Danny Clinch and artists Jon Langford and Michael Worthington available for display and purchase.
In reflecting the Southern roots of the bar, the menu will feature time-honored drinks inspired by traditional Antebellum recipes and classic snacks like boiled peanuts, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list. McCarthy expressed her excitement for the bar, describing it as a magical location for music, echoing her sentiments from the days of Brownies.
The soft launch will commence with a private event featuring Williams and her band alongside notable performers like Laura Cantrell, DJ Moonshine, and DJ Prison Rodeo, with the performances streamed live on SiriusXM’s Outlaw channel.
The venue is officially set to open to the public on Thursday, July 31, with plans for a lively entertainment schedule that includes live country music, karaoke, and a monthly queer country party.
This new venture not only celebrates Williams’ musical heritage but also enriches the cultural fabric of the East Village community, promising a distinctive atmosphere for music lovers in New York City.