Lucinda's: A Honky-Tonk Haven in the East Village
Lucinda’s is a new honky-tonk style bar in the East Village, co-owned by the renowned singer/songwriter Lucinda Williams. The bar recently had its unofficial opening with Williams and her band gracing the stage in an invite-only event. The venue, previously known as Heaven Can Wait, has undergone a transformation under the ownership of Williams, Laura McCarthy, and Kelley Swindall, who is also the general manager. The atmosphere at Lucinda’s exudes a sense of history and charm, with carefully curated decor and a nod to blues and folk music icons.
Kelley Swindall, who pitched the idea of opening a club to Williams, played a significant role in finding memorabilia and artwork for the venue. Williams, known for her interest in outsider folk art and blues music, contributed to curating the decor and selecting the liquor and wine offerings. The bar features vintage imagery, black-and-white prints of country icons, and artwork by renowned artists like Danny Clinch and Jon Langford. The venue pays homage to music legends like Muddy Waters and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, creating a unique and inviting space for music enthusiasts.
The recent live show at Lucinda’s, broadcast on Sirius XM, featured a performance by Laura Cantrell and her band, with special guest Mary Lee Kortes. Cantrell, who has a history with the venue from its Brownie’s days, praised the new iteration as a spiritual successor to the old space. The East Village's vibrant music scene and diverse community have influenced the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at Lucinda’s, making it a place for music lovers to connect and enjoy great performances.
Despite facing health challenges, Williams remains dedicated to her music and the success of Lucinda’s. While recovering from a stroke in 2020, Williams continues to tour and perform with her band, delivering a mix of classic hits and newer songs. The bar's ethos of music and fun was evident during the performance, with Williams emphasizing the importance of enjoying music and creating a lively atmosphere at Lucinda’s. The set included a tribute to Tom Petty and a heartfelt cover of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” showcasing Williams' enduring passion for music and her commitment to providing a memorable experience at her bar.