At the end of the day, the cost-of-living crisis gets us all. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, no one is safe. Today, the victim is Edinburgh’s Jazz Bar.
The does-what-it-says-on-the-tin music venue was popular amongst students and locals, and was opened nearly two decades ago by Scottish drummer Bill Kyle. He ran it until his death in 2016, when Jazz Bar was taken over by his wife and daughter. A spokesperson posted an emotional goodbye to the bar’s website, saying: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden closure of The Jazz Bar.’
‘It has been particularly challenging for The Jazz Bar with a massive variety of issues and challenges to work though. Despite extremely hard work and very positive progress to overcome these issues, the cost of living crisis coupled with operational challenges proved too much.’
The statement continues by thanking the community formed around the club, and explaining that it will be ‘quite literally irreplaceable to the Edinburgh music scene and gig economy.’
The post also honours the late owner, stating ‘We must also mention our gratitude to Bill Kyle, whose vision and passion brought The Jazz Bar to life, we extend our deepest appreciation. His legacy will forever resonate within the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness and dedication.’
Finally, the message ends with a heartfelt thanks to anyone whose patronage or work helped the venue in its 19-year lifespan: ‘As we announce the closure of The Jazz Bar Ltd… We must pay special thanks to the musicians who have rallied to help the venue survive and be accommodating to any changes being made. Without their good faith and the tireless effort of the staff we wouldn’t have been [able] to even make it this far in the year.
‘We extend our sincerest thanks to the musicians, staff, and patrons who made The Jazz Bar a cherished part of Edinburgh’s cultural landscape. Your support and passion have been the driving force behind our journey, and for that, we are eternally grateful.’
You can read the letter in its entirety on the Jazz Bar’s website here.
Night out in Edinburgh?
Jazz Bar may be closed, but you can still have a great night in Scotland’s capital. We have guides to all the best bars in Edinburgh, and our favourite clubs to keep the good times going. If you’re not big into drinking, try out one of the city’s best restaurants, or some cheap eats if you’re on a budget.
Did you see that Glasgow’s oldest museum will soon close for three years?
Plus: Scotland’s islands could soon be linked to the mainland by undersea tunnels.
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