Amsterdam's Bourbon Street Blues Bar: A Review & Nightlife Guide
Ever dreamt of stumbling upon a hidden gem, a place where the blues seep from the walls and the music wraps you in a warm embrace? Bourbon Street in Amsterdam offers precisely that a slice of musical heaven nestled in the heart of the city.
A recent visitor to Amsterdam, filled with anticipation, discovered a haven for live blues music, a place that promised an evening of soulful melodies and good company. The reality, however, took an unexpected turn. Arriving just fifteen minutes after the 10 pm opening time, the visitor was met not with a welcoming smile, but with an abrupt encounter. A rather imposing, bald employee, whose demeanor seemed far from friendly, unceremoniously ushered the visitor out, demanding a five-euro admission fee, despite no one else being charged. This initial experience paints a somewhat contradictory picture of Bourbon Street, juxtaposing the promise of musical delight with a less-than-stellar first impression.
Bourbon Street, a beacon of live music in Amsterdam, is more than just a venue; it's an institution. Established on September 21st, 1990, by Ricardo Reeberg and Bert Hendriks, it emerged from the ashes of a discotheque, filling a clear void in Amsterdam's nightlife. The city craved a live music cafe, a space with character and originality, and Bourbon Street answered that call. This establishment, slightly removed from the bustling Leidseplein, has carved a niche for itself, drawing in both locals and tourists, students, and musicians alike. It offers an escape, a "no nonsense ambiance" where individuals can simply be themselves, free from pretense, united by their love for live music. This is a place where the only attitude present is that of those who are enjoying live music.
The club has a rich history and has hosted legendary musicians, including Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Joss Stone, Jeff Healey, and even the Rolling Stones. Bourbon Streets claim to fame extends beyond the music; it is a place where the music and the experience are more important than the hype. It has become one of Amsterdam's most popular places.
Let's delve deeper into what makes Bourbon Street such a unique destination, using the details available.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Bourbon Street Live Music Amsterdam |
| Location | Near Leidseplein, Amsterdam |
| Type | Live Music Venue, Nightclub, Blues Bar |
| Founded | September 21st, 1990 |
| Founders | Ricardo Reeberg and Bert Hendriks |
| Ambiance | Intimate, Cozy, No-nonsense, Welcoming |
| Music Genres | Blues, Jazz, Soul, Live Music |
| Open Hours (Weekdays) | 10 PM to 4 AM |
| Open Hours (Weekends) | 10 PM to 5 AM |
| Known For | Live Music, Legendary Musicians, Great Atmosphere |
| Attracts | Tourists, Locals, Students, Musicians |
| Notable Performances | Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Joss Stone, Jeff Healey, The Rolling Stones |
| Claim to Fame | Bringing live music every night of the week for over 30 years. |
| Online presence |
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The venue's longevity, having provided live music every night for over three decades, speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. If you can't make it to the legendary New Orleans Bourbon Street, Amsterdam's version offers the next best experience. The walls are covered with music memorabilia, adding to the intimate and classy atmosphere. This is the place where the warmth of a blues band touches your musical soul.
The energy remains strong, with the promise of fresh experiences, the club is kicking off the year with a full lineup of shows, inviting everyone to be a part of the magic. Bourbon Street is more than a place; it's an experience. It's where you can get lost in the music, experience the sound of blues, and enjoy great company. It's a location where it is easy to lose track of time, immersing yourself in the music and ambiance.
So, whats on offer at Bourbon Street? A lineup of groovy bands, flowing beer from the taps, and an ambiance where people let themselves get lost in the rhythms of the blues. Located near Leidseplein, it offers a haven where live music is celebrated seven days a week. The spirit of this venue is captured in the words of those who have experienced it.
Bourbon Street is a place where the past and present of music intersect. The venue has a history that is intertwined with the cultural landscape of Amsterdam. It answered the need for a cozy venue. From its humble beginnings as a discotheque to its current status as a well-known live music club, Bourbon Street has adapted to the ever-changing musical scene. Today, it remains a space where artists and music enthusiasts come together.
