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For more than three decades, the Empty Bottle has been a cultural hub and proving ground for artists who would go on to define music for generations. From The Strokes, The White Stripes, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs to Lady Gaga, Modest Mouse, Spoon, Waxahatchee, and Viagra Boys, the Bottle has long been a space for discovery, experimentation, and belonging.
Founded in 1992 in a modest Ukrainian Village hole-in-the-wall—where beers cost fifty cents and the jukebox set the tone— The Empty Bottle has grown into a bigger, fully sound-equipped venue while holding on to its scrappy charm. This year’s 33 ⅓ anniversary isn’t just a nod to the countless iconic shows, but to the community that has made Empty Bottle a true home for artists and fans alike. Step inside and feel the energy, history, and unforgettable moments that have defined more than three decades of live music in Chicago.
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"Empty Bottle started as a place where people could feel like they belonged. A place to bring an old friend while maybe making a new one. A place to showcase new and exciting music, where everyone feels welcome to express themselves. Now more than ever the world needs music and a strong community to uplift each other, and we're here to honor and celebrate that."
-Matt Ciarleglio, Managing Partner of Empty Bottle
The 33 ⅓ anniversary nods to the classic playback speed of a vinyl LP, paying tribute to the club’s deep roots in music culture. It will feature a lineup as wild and eclectic as the venue itself, with major headliners, surprise guests, and hometown heroes set to take the stage across multiple nights. This is the second time the Bottle has marked a milestone in a major way—the last being its unforgettable 25th Anniversary in 2017, which saw old friends return to the stage for a seven-month-long celebration. This year, expect something even bigger: wilder, weirder, and worthy of 33 ⅓ years of independent music history.
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About The Empty Bottle
Since opening its doors in 1992, the Empty Bottle has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s independent music scene, championing emerging talent and hosting performances that push boundaries. Known for its intimate setting and forward-thinking programming, the Bottle has remained committed to its mission: to create a space for music lovers and artists to connect, create, and celebrate together.
About 16 On Center
For over 30 years, the homegrown music and hospitality collective 16 On Center has been creating new neighborhood staples throughout Chicago. With over 15 independently operated locations, from Evanston to Hyde Park, with additional projects in New York City and beyond, their central mission remains the same: to treat every concept as community and every building as a link to living history. The name "16 On Center" comes from the construction term for a center mark that ensures the strongest build, reflecting their commitment to creating high-quality, enduring spaces.
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