One of Calgary’s most iconic music landmarks is re-opening just in time for the 2016 Calgary Stampede.
The historic King Edward Hotel will open its doors on Canada Day, followed by 10 days of live music as the venue becomes a pop-up country bar featuring rockabilly, bluegrass, western-swing and Americana.
The King Eddy – as locals lovingly call it – opened in 1905 and eventually became known as Calgary’s “home of the blues,” welcoming musicians like John Hammond, Buddy Guy, Pintetop Perkins and Otis Rush.
The venue was eventually condemned and closed in 2004, before being torn down and reassembled brick by brick at the National Music Centre.
“After over 10 years of silence at the King Eddy, we’re excited to finally bring this beloved Calgary live music venue back to life,” president and CEO for the National Music Centre (NMC) Andrew Mosker said.
“The Eddy was a place known for its authentic programming, impromptu jam sessions, and its universal audience—where people from all walks of life came to enjoy live music.”
The Bell Live Series at the King Eddy will run daily from July 8 to 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Headliners include:
July 8-9 Petunia and the Vipers.
July 10 Steve Pineo / Tom Phillips and the Men of Constant Sorrow
July 11 Carolyn Mark
July 12 Dick Damron
July 13 Western Swing Project
July 14 Ramblin’ Ambassadors
July 15 Leeroy Stagger
July 16 Tim Hus
July 17 Jake Mathews
A $20 cover will be in place after 6 p.m.