Austin, Texas, October 6, 2025
News Summary
Antone’s Nightclub in Austin is celebrating its 50th anniversary, marking its significant role in the city’s blues culture. Founded by Clifford Antone in 1975, the venue has hosted legendary performers like B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughan, becoming an iconic part of the local music scene. The anniversary festivities include a week of special musical events and the release of a commemorative box set featuring 41 tracks. Under new ownership, Antone’s is modernizing while honoring its historic legacy, further embedding itself in Austin’s identity as the ‘Live Music Capital of the World.’
Austin, Texas is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Antone’s Nightclub, a cornerstone of the city’s renowned blues culture. Founded on July 15, 1975, by Clifford Antone, the club has hosted a diverse lineup of iconic musicians over the decades, significantly shaping the local music scene.
The inaugural performance at Antone’s was by zydeco artist Clifton Chenier & His Red Hot Louisiana Band, setting the stage for a legacy of live music. Since its founding, the nightclub has undergone six relocations, adjusting to the evolving landscape of downtown Austin while maintaining its commitment to blues music.
Throughout its history, Antone’s has welcomed legendary artists including Jimmie and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, and Eric Clapton. Clifford Antone was dedicated to promoting both established blues legends and emerging local talent, fostering a unique connection between generations of musicians. The venue originally started in a backroom of Antone’s Import clothing store before transforming into a full-fledged nightclub.
To commemorate its 50 years, Antone’s has lined up a week of special musical events and performances featuring blues stars and legacy acts. The celebration also includes the release of the “Antone’s 50 Years of The Blues” box set, which features 41 tracks from various artists who have graced the venue. This anniversary highlights the club’s ongoing influence and important role in preserving blues culture in Austin.
Under new ownership identified as “The Kid’s Table,” Antone’s is modernizing the venue while honoring its historical significance. It has become a vital component of Austin’s identity as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” connecting blues with various other music genres. The venue is also developing a museum on-site to celebrate its rich history and contributions to music culture.
In addition to its nightly shows, Antone’s hosts multiple community events, further enhancing its connection with the local music scene. Its record shop, Big Henry’s, continues to sell classic Antone’s merchandise along with a curated collection of blues and soul records. The impact of Antone’s on musicians’ careers is profound, with many attributing their success to the opportunities provided by the club.
Susan Antone, sister of Clifford Antone, has played a crucial role in preserving her brother’s vision and the enduring legacy of the nightclub. The club’s history is filled with stories of musical collaboration and innovation, and its future looks bright, as it continues to bring blues music to new audiences while celebrating the past.
Key Features of Antone’s Nightclub
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | July 15, 1975 |
| Inaugural Performance | Clifton Chenier & His Red Hot Louisiana Band |
| Relocations | Six times |
| Notable Artists | Jimmie and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Eric Clapton |
| Current Ownership | The Kid’s Table |
| 50th Anniversary Box Set | “Antone’s 50 Years of The Blues” featuring 41 tracks |
| Community Engagement | Hosts various community events |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Antone’s Nightclub?
Antone’s Nightclub is a cornerstone of Austin’s blues culture and has hosted a diverse lineup of iconic musicians over the decades, significantly shaping the local music scene.
When was Antone’s Nightclub founded?
Antone’s Nightclub was founded on July 15, 1975, by Clifford Antone.
Who performed at the inaugural event at Antone’s?
The inaugural performance at Antone’s was by zydeco artist Clifton Chenier & His Red Hot Louisiana Band.
How many times has Antone’s relocated?
Antone’s has relocated six times since its founding.
What notable artists have performed at Antone’s?
Notable performers at Antone’s have included Jimmie and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, and Eric Clapton.
What celebrations took place for the 50th anniversary of Antone’s?
Antone’s celebrated its 50th anniversary with a week of special musical events and performances, as well as the release of a box set featuring 41 tracks by various artists.
Who is responsible for preserving the legacy of Antone’s?
The club’s legacy is supported by its founder’s sister, Susan Antone, who has been instrumental in preserving Clifford Antone’s vision and history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Austin Celebrates Local Music Talent
Sonic Guild Ball Celebrates Local Music in Austin
Austin Welcomes the 2024 Music Poll: Celebrate Local Talent!
Additional Resources
- ACL TV
- Wikipedia: Antone’s Nightclub
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google Search: Antone’s Nightclub 50th Anniversary
- Billboard
- Google Scholar: Antone’s Nightclub
- CBS Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Antone’s
- CultureMap Austin
- Google News: Antone’s 50th Anniversary
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
