Jay's Longhorn Bar

Jay's Longhorn Bar

Jay's Longhorn Bar was a notable music venue located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, that played a significant role in the development of the punk rock and new wave music scenes in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The venue is often credited with being a pivotal location for the emergence of alternative music in the Midwest United States.

History

Jay's Longhorn Bar was established in 1977 by owner Jay Berine. The venue was originally a steakhouse, but Berine transformed it into a music club that quickly became a hub for local and touring bands. The bar was located at 14 South 5th Street in downtown Minneapolis.

Transformation into a Music Venue

The transformation of Jay's Longhorn Bar from a steakhouse to a music venue was driven by the burgeoning punk rock scene and the lack of venues willing to host such acts. Berine saw an opportunity to cater to this emerging market and began booking bands that were part of the punk and new wave movements.

Notable Performances

Jay's Longhorn Bar hosted a variety of influential bands and artists during its operation. Some of the most notable performances included:

• The Replacements - A local band that would go on to achieve national fame.
• Hüsker Dü - Another Minneapolis-based band that became a key figure in the American punk scene.
• The Suicide Commandos - One of the first punk bands from Minneapolis.
• Touring acts such as The Police, Elvis Costello, and The B-52's also performed at the venue, helping to establish its reputation as a premier location for cutting-edge music.

Cultural Impact

Jay's Longhorn Bar was more than just a music venue; it was a cultural hub that fostered a sense of community among musicians and fans. It provided a space where new and experimental music could thrive, and it played a crucial role in the development of the Minneapolis music scene.

Influence on Local Music Scene

The bar's influence extended beyond the acts that performed there. It inspired a generation of musicians and music enthusiasts, contributing to the rise of Minneapolis as a significant center for alternative music. The ethos and energy of Jay's Longhorn Bar can be seen in the success of bands like The Replacements and Hüsker Dü, who carried the spirit of the venue into their music and performances.

Closure

Jay's Longhorn Bar closed its doors in 1980, but its legacy continues to be felt in the music world. The venue's impact on the Minneapolis music scene and its role in the broader punk and new wave movements are remembered fondly by those who experienced it firsthand.

Also see

• First Avenue (nightclub)
• Minneapolis music scene
• Punk rock
• New wave music