The History of the House of Blues in Chicago

by Contributing Writer

Overview

The History of the House of Blues in Chicago

The House of Blues franchise is arguably the biggest chain of live music venues in the United States, and doubles as a restaurant. Its cultural significance is immense, and the Chicago location is one of the most famous.
Significance

The Chicago House of Blues is so famous and successful as both a live music venue and restaurant, it is often the primary identifier for the entire chain. This may be due to Chicago's long association with jazz and blues music, especially in the eyes of tourists--domestic and international.

History

Although the House of Blues concept started in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1992, its first big success was the Chicago location, which opened in 1996.
Identification

House of Blues Chicago is located in the middle of the most traveled part of the city, adjacent to the Magnificent Mile on Michigan Ave. The club is part of Marina City, a historic high rise development featured in many movies. It's right off Dearborn St. and Carroll Ave.
Function

The facility is both a live music venue and a theme restaurant serving Mississippi Delta cuisine. The music is ostensibly geared towards jazz, blues and gospel, although acts of all kinds appear there.
Benefits

The success of the House of Blues chain has led to the creation of an active charity, known as the International House of Blues Foundation.
Misconceptions

The nearby House of Blues Hotel has been renamed the Hotel Sax, having been bought over by Gemstone Hotels in May 2007. However, locals and visitors still refer to the hotel using the House of Blues moniker.

Overview