Zydeco, legendary Alabama music venue, closing: ‘This is not the end; it is a new beginning’

One of Birmingham's oldest music venues has closed.

The owners of Zydeco the concert hall and pub in Five Points South, announced the venue has closed. The owners plan to relocate the venue in 2025.

Arthur Hood, the owner of Zydeco, cited a number of changes as a reason for the closure.

"Faced with increased operating costs, as well as maintenance and upkeep on a 115-year-old building, we have made the decision to cease operations in Five Points South," Hood said in a statement provided to AL.com. "While we hold our original location in high regard, we are actively seeking a new home to carry on the Zydeco tradition for future generations. We do not anticipate a new location before Spring of 2025."

Hood also says the team at Zydeco plans to maintain the venue's social media presence and keep the public informed of the progress on the new location.

"We recognize the significance of Zydeco as a live music venue in Birmingham and the role it has played as host to countless music acts over the years, and we look forward to continuing to support live music for years to come in a modern space," Hood said in the statement. "We raise our final toast to the immeasurable number of patrons and artists who have passed through our doors, sat at our bar, or stood on our stage. This is not the end; it is a new beginning."

Shows listed on Zydeco's event calendar have been canceled or moved. The concert hall was supposed to host rappers Erica Banks and Gloss Up on Nov. 3. Ticketweb lists that event as "canceled" . Zydeco's website lists Workplay Theatre as the new host venue for two upcoming shows- the Braxton Keith and Zach Meadows show and a Diwali afterparty.

John Parker has owned the neighboring CBD shop, Near To Me dispensary, since 2018. He said it was nice to set up shop next to a Birmingham institution.

He remembers going to Zydeco shows in college. One of his fondest memories was seeing guitarist Marcus King, who turned 21 during his performance at the venue.

Parker says Zydeco's absence will leave a hole in the city's live entertainment scene.

"It will definitely alter the touring and music scene," Parker said. 'The city will be at a net negative from not having Zydeco."