Jim Rothe |
Yes, it's true. The finest Jazz and Blues club on the Jersey Shore closed it's doors for good on Monday, December 30, 2002. The "House of Billy (Hector)" hosted many fantastic performances over the course of its 30 year history, and I've been privileged to have been there for the final five years. The club's business has slowed down a bit over the last few years, but it was still a wonderful place to build some very close friendships and listen to some very fine music. The last three days in operation were truly magnificent, though. Saturday night was billed as Billy Hector's last performance, and the club was at capacity with a long line out the door, rivaling some of the largest clubs in New York City. (Unfortunately, I didn't have my camera with me for that night.) Sunday was the final Jason's performance of the Black Widow band, as well as club owner Mel Hood with the Bobby Boyd Band. Mel made a rare appearance (at Jason's) in a tux. (That guy polishes up pretty well. Whodathunkit?) :) Finally, Monday night was another packed night, nearly at capacity. A few hundred of my closest friends showed up to hear an open jam with the Pat Karwin band, and everybody who's anybody showed up to play a few licks. Of course, there were a few tears shed too, as all of those close friends who came together to hear this wonderful music began to realize that they now have no common place to gather. For now....
But keep an eye on some of the clubs in Asbury Park. See my music page for some of the hottest prospects in the local club scene.
