Antone’s, Legendary Austin Nightclub, Unveils Plans for Momentous 50th Anniversary

Antone’s Nightclub, the Austin, Texas, live music mecca, will mark 50 years of high-flying entertainment in 2025. In tandem with the milestone occasion, the location has unveiled an ambitious schedule of live performances, historical conversations, and new releases to celebrate the momentous achievement. 

Tracking the location’s vast web of achievements: Antone’s initially opened its doors in 1975, becoming a so-called “home away from home” to the likes of Muddy Waters, Albert King, Otis Rush, Willie Dixon and B.B. King. In addition to the blues, the location also became a staple stop for roots artists due partly to founder Clifford Antone’s interest in Creole music, R&B, zydeco, and blues, informed by youthful road trips through the deep South, particularly The Bayou State. 

What began as a sandwich shop eventually bloomed into a venue as a direct result of Clifford’s passion for music. Supporting the aforementioned claim, Buddy Guy once reflected, “Clifford knew as much about the blues as I did.” In addition to functioning as an independent venue, Clifford’s ambition bred Antone’s Records, which became an independent hub for club regulars to release their music.

In continuation of its longstanding success, the location will mark 50 years with a series of offerings, which includes a 50th-anniversary New West Records set that includes select rare live recordings from across club history, out-of-print material from the Antone’s Records catalog, as well as new recordings. 

Moreover, the location’s five-decade run makes it an official panel location during the forthcoming SXSW 2025 gathering, which includes a day-of party and a 50-year showcase. Austin Blues Festival (April 26-27) will also mark the location’s time-stamped achievements with all-star jams with artists considered essential to the club’s past, present, and forthcoming endeavors. 

The opening of a satellite Antone’s location at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport adds to a growing list of events. It will also realize Clifford’s hope of a permanent Blues Museum in the venue. The exhibit will showcase items donated by Billy F Gibbons, Willie Dixon, Susan Antone, Clifton Chenier, and others. 

July will represent the peak of the celebration, specifically July 15–the original date of the first gig hosted at Antone’s in 1975–and will serve as the club’s impending anniversary party date. 

For additional information on Antone’s and its stacked list of 50th-anniversary events, visit antonesnightclub.com.