Iconic musician Lucinda Williams performs live, while Johnny Cash briefly steps into the restroom at a freshly opened honky-tonk bar in the East Village.
New Honky-Tonk Bar and Live Music Venue Lucinda's Opens in the East Village
A new addition to the East Village's nightlife scene, Lucinda's, has officially opened its doors to the public. Located at 169 Avenue A, this honky-tonk bar and live music venue is a joint venture by country singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams, Kelley Swindall, and Laura McCarthy [1][2].
The venue, which was previously home to several establishments including Brownie’s and Heaven Can Wait, aims to be a lasting cultural and musical hub. It boasts an authentic Southern spirit, offering old-time drinks inspired by the Antebellum South, classic snacks like boiled peanuts, and a curated wine list [2].
Lucinda's strives to evoke the vibe of a longstanding honky-tonk with strong live music and community energy. Co-founder Kelley Swindall, a local singer-songwriter, will be managing and bartending alongside Williams herself [1]. The space has already hosted performances by Williams and other acts like Laura Cantrell, DJ Moonshine, and DJ Prison Rodeo [2].
Regular events at Lucinda's include live country music sets every Friday and Saturday evening, live band country karaoke every Friday, and the East Village Cxntry Club, an all-inclusive queer country party on the last Thursday of every month [2]. The first Singer/Songwriter Open Mic, open to anyone who signs up on the day of, kicked off on August 28 [2].
Lucinda's held an invite-only unofficial opening last week, where Williams and her band performed. The set included a tribute to Tom Petty and a cover of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" [4]. The audience is expected to follow a rule of quieting down during performances at the Singer/Songwriter Open Mic [4].
The decor at Lucinda's includes outsider folk art, blues artist nods, and works by Danny Clinch, Jon Langford, and Steve Keene [3]. One of the bathrooms is devoted entirely to Johnny Cash [3].
Swindall, who is also the general manager and part-time bartender, expressed her joy about having a place of her own in New York City. She intends for Lucinda's to be a "third space" for people [3]. Each singer at the Singer/Songwriter Open Mic gets two songs and must sing original songs [4].
The bar has received attention for its authentic Southern vibe, cold Miller High Life beers, pedal steel-fueled country music, and connection to Lucinda Williams’ legacy [4][5]. Information about Lucinda's can be found at lucindasnyc.com and on Instagram at @lucindasnyc.
With its promise of great music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a nod to Southern traditions, Lucinda's is set to become a beloved addition to the East Village.
References:
- The New York Times
- Lucinda's Official Website
- The Village Voice
- Billboard
- Rolling Stone
The honky-tonk bar and live music venue, Lucinda's, located at 169 Avenue A, aims to establish a lasting connection with its patrons by offering a unique blend of music, entertainment, and home-and-garden ambiance, reminiscent of the Antebellum South. Co-founder Kelley Swindall intends for Lucinda's to become a "third space" for people to gather, enjoy live music, and immerse themselves in the Southern lifestyle.
