Money over Music: Popular Austin music venues that have closed due to rent issues

By Bruner
  • Armadillo World Headquarters

    Eddie Wilson opened The Armadillo World Headquarters after the Vulcan Gas Company closed. It was known for its mixture of hippies and cowboys that helped cultivate the “Austin Sound”. Despite being nationally recognized as Austin’s flagship music venue, it struggled financially and had to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1977 before ultimately closing in 1980.
  • Liberty Lunch

    This former World War II era eatery was transformed into a popular music venue during the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. Notable performers such as Nirvana and the Red Hot Chili Peppers played there, but the Liberty Lunch was forced to close to make way for downtown redevelopment in 1999.
  • The Electric Lounge

    The Electric Lounge was a popular bar and music venue for the college crowd during the 90’s, and was known for its "indie" sound. Owner Mark Shuman closed down the venue after failing to sell the property.
  • The Black Cat

    The Black Cat was a popular music venue until an electrical fire burned down the buidling in August of 2002. Though it was primarily a biker bar, it was known for entertaining diverse crowds.
  • Momo's

    Momo’s was a beloved music venue located on Sixth Street that had to shut down in 2011 due to structural damage and renovations. Even though it was open for only 10 years, Momo’s had a large community following that still mourns Momo’s on an open facebook page.
  • Red 7

    Red 7 was a popular music venue that was known to host South by Southwest and Austin City Limits after parties or pop up shows. It initially closed this year after rent was increased, but announced plans to move to Red River St. to become "Sidewinder".
  • Holy Mountain

    Holy Mountain, located right off of Sixth Street, was a popular night time music venue despite being open for only 3 years. It closed after its owner James Taylor was confronted with a 45% rent increase