Luke Bryan has announced that his bar on Nashville’s Lower Broadway, Luke’s 32 Bridge, will be closed until further notice. The superstar singer and American Idol judge shared the news with a video posted to Instagram.
“Hey guys, it’s Luke here, with no beard, but I didn’t know I was going to be doing any videos,” he began in the clip. “Just letting you guys know due to the COVID-19 and coronavirus situation, we’re going to be closing Luke’s 32 Bridge to keep all of our patrons, all of our staff, and just to comply with what the city of Nashville wants for us, to keep everybody safe and we’re going to be closed. We’ll let you know when we’re going to reopen, when we’re told to reopen. Just wish you guys out there the best during spring break and stay safe, sanitize and we’re all in this together. Certainly this is new territory for me and my family and I’m sure you and yours. Stay safe and God bless. Thank you.”
Bryan’s decision to close down his bar comes just one day after Nashville mayor John Cooper called on the bars and restaurants in Music City to close fully and/or open to up to 50% capacity.
“All this is to get us back to normal as soon as possible,” Cooper explained after the Metro Board of Health called for an emergency meeting. According to The Tennessean, Mayor Cooper recommended that bars throughout Davidson County, including Lower Broadway, close; restaurants limit seating to less than 50% capacity with no more than 100 individuals in any establishment; and that bar service at restaurants be limited to 50% capacity with no standing allowed.
In support of the mayor’s decision and public health concerns, Jason Aldean, Alan Jackson and Blake Shelton have also decided to shut down their bars and restaurants.
“In response to recent developments regarding COVID-19 (Corona Virus), and for the health and safety of our staff and patrons, Jason Aldean’s Kitchen and Rooftop Bar will be closed until further notice.This decision follows the recommendation of Nashville Public Health Officials and Mayor Cooper. Our hearts go out to our neighbors and the Nashville Hospitality Community during this uncertain time and we continue to look forward to serving you in the future,” read a statement posted to the establishment’s Instagram.
“Due to recent recommendations from the Mayors office and for the health and safety of our staff, patrons & artists, AJs Good Time Bar is closing our doors until further notice,” the bar shared in a statement. “We aim to work with the Mayors office and other bars to contain the spread of Covid-19 through our city and state. We will let you know as soon as we are clear to reopen!”
“Beginning at 7 p.m. tonight, we will join Nashville Mayor John Cooper and other bars across the city to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community by temporarily suspending operations at Ole Red Nashville. The safety of our employees, artists and guests is our top priority, and this is the right thing to do for all of us at this time. We look forward to serving you again soon. Stay safe, y’all,” shared Ole Red Nashville.
While many are complying with the mayor’s request, Steve Smith, the owner of Tootsies Orchid Lounge, Rippy’s, Honky Tonk Central, Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk & Steakhouse and The Diner, has decided that his businesses will remain open.
“We appreciate the efforts of Mayor Cooper to combat the COVID-19 virus, but unless there’s a statewide mandate that directs all bars and restaurants to be closed, the request made by Mayor Cooper is unconstitutional as he is targeting a select group of businesses,” Smith said in a statement, according to WSMV.
“We are compassionate with those who have contracted the COVID-19 coronavirus and all who are helping manage the crisis as the entire world addresses the outbreak. However, a Tootsie’s patron as immediate as last night, mentioned having lived through the polio epidemic and didn’t recall such extreme measures being handed down in history.”
Smith added that he will only close when the governor issues a state mandate.
For up-to-date information about country music’s cancellations and postponements, click here.
