BB King Blues Club & Grill In New York City Is Closing After 18 Years

Source: Image courtesy of B.B. King Blues Club & Grill

B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in New York City's Times Square is closing this month.

READ: BB King's Daughters Claim He Was Poisoned By Longtime Manager

On Tuesday, the club said that it was shutting its doors as a result of rising rents in the area, according to Billboard.

"Despite many sold out shows, the [Times Square] location's rent escalated to an unsustainable level, leaving us no choice but to close our doors," Tsion Bensusan, a TSE Group venue operator, said. "Unfortunately this has become a growing trend in New York City, with other iconic music venues and businesses falling victim to opportunistic property owners. This venue's legacy extends much further than the stage, playing a role in Times Square's revitalization two decades ago. It is a shame that wasn't taken into consideration regarding its future in the area."

Although a new location in Manhattan is being sought, there are no other details for the club's future. The venue's final show will take place on April 29 with legendary blues guitarist and singer Buddy Guy. Prior to that performance, the club will also host shows from Rick Ross, Slick Rick, Doug E. Fresh, and George Clinton. As for shows scheduled after 29, they'll be moved to various venues throughout the city. A schedule for the club's remaining shows is below.

Originally opened in 2000, the B.B. King Blues Club & Grill has hosted artists such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Jay-Z, and others.

B.B. King Blues Club & Grill Closing Week Celebration Show Schedule:

April 17 & 18: Buddy Guy

April 22: William Bell's Memphis Soul Revue

April 23: Rick Ross

April 25: Slick Rick & Doug E. Fresh + Special Guests

April 26: El Gran Combo

April 28: George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic + Special Guests

April 29: Buddy Guy

Source: Billboard