Where, Oh Where, Did Mr. Kelly's Go?
So, you wanna know where Mr. Kelly’s was in Chicago, huh? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to take a trip down memory lane.
A Star is Born (and Died) on Rush Street
Let’s get one thing straight: Mr. Kelly’s wasn’t just a nightclub. It was a legend. Located on the infamous Rush Street, it was the place to be seen (or heard, if you were lucky enough to get a table). From the swinging '50s to the groovy '70s, it was the epicenter of Chicago’s nightlife. Think of it as the Studio 54 of the Midwest, but with a whole lot more jazz and a lot less Studio 54-style debauchery.
But alas, all good things must come to an end. In 1975, Mr. Kelly’s closed its doors for good. It was like losing a beloved family pet, only with more laughter and less fur. But fear not, history buffs and jazz enthusiasts! The legacy of Mr. Kelly's lives on through the countless stars who graced its stage.
A Who’s Who of Entertainment
Seriously, the list of performers who rocked the Mr. Kelly’s stage is like a hall of fame. We’re talking Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Barbra Streisand, and gasp even Richard Pryor. Can you imagine seeing these legends in such an intimate setting? It’s like winning the lottery and finding a unicorn in your backyard – all at the same time.
So, Where Exactly Was It?
Okay, okay, let’s get down to brass tacks. Mr. Kelly’s was located on Rush Street in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. It was a small, intimate club with a big reputation. So, the next time you’re strolling down Rush Street, take a moment to imagine the laughter, the music, and the sheer magic that once filled that space.
How to... Satisfy Your Mr. Kelly's Curiosity
- How to relive the magic? Check out documentaries and recordings of performances at Mr. Kelly’s.
- How to feel like a VIP? Visit other jazz clubs in Chicago and imagine yourself in the spotlight.
- How to impress your friends? Drop some Mr. Kelly’s trivia at your next cocktail party.
- How to plan a time machine adventure? Unfortunately, we can’t help you with that. Yet.
- How to appreciate the present? Support local jazz musicians and venues.
So, there you have it, folks. A brief but hopefully informative look into the legendary Mr. Kelly’s. Now go forth and spread the word about this Chicago gem!
