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The blue light live: a space for musicians to call home




Standing out as one of Lubbock’s favorite venues, The Blue Light Live is a place locals, visitors and musicians call home. A space filled with memories and artistic talent, Blue Light is part of Lubbock’s foundation and a household name. 

The History of The Blue Light Live

Founded by Tom McDonald in 1999, The Blue Light Live is a Lubbock staple. Next door is Tom’s Daiquiri, an establishment inspired by New Orleans Daiquiri bars, opened by McDonald in 1997. Not only are these businesses still open, but they continue to produce unique experiences for all who visit. Taking ownership in 2006, David and Stephanie Brooks maintained the Blue Light legacy until Dustin Six became co-owner in 2013. Starting at Tom’s Daiquiri in 2006 as a bartender, Six has been part of the Blue Light family for over 15 years. A Texas Tech University graduate and long-time Lubbock resident, Six and his wife MacKenzie established their lives in Lubbock after moving from Plains, Texas. 

Construction & Renovations

Six explains Blue Light is “definitely going to change” in the upcoming years. With plans to expand and renovate, Blue Light is looking to accommodate larger crowds in a comfortable space. Working to improve life on the road, Blue Light plans to extend the stage outward and create a green room for bands to enjoy while visiting. Blue Light aims to provide showers, bathrooms and a lounging area private for the traveling musicians. Six says the goal is for musicians and bands to “come back to the place they love.” 

Tom’s Daiquiris & A Taste of Home 

Home to some of the friendliest bartenders and best drinks, Tom’s Daiquiris has been a town favorite for over 20 years. The idea to open a daiquiri bar came from Tom McDonald’s time installing daiquiri bars in New Orleans. He moved to Lubbock and wanted to establish one of his own in 1997. 

Not only are Tom’s Daiquiris and Blue Light a long-time Lubbock hotspots, but these businesses proudly sell locally-made spirits. Produced since 2015, Pinkerton’s Distillery by Lucas Pinkerton is the foundation of house-favorite shot: The Burn Box. Also a Texas Tech graduate, Pinkerton’s business produces world-class spirits such as the Burn Habanero Flavored Vodka and Platinum Rum. Alongside locally-made spirits, Blue Light hosts IPAs from award-winning brewery, The Brewery LBK. Head brewer at Brewery LBK, Sally Taylor worked with Blue Light to install her 1806 Lager IPA in-house for locals to enjoy.  

Six explains he “wishes there was more awareness around the legit spirits being made in Lubbock.” He says the “Lubbock brewery deal is pretty awesome.” 

Blue Light as a Lunch Pad for Fame 

Singer-Songwriter Nights

Every Monday Blue Light hosts its Singer/Songwriter Nights. This is the time for local and regional talent to share their music with eager-to-listen crowds. Embracing traditional songwriting and talent, Blue Light asks artists to perform original music only on these nights. Audiences gather to enjoy original tunes along with quality beverages and good company. 

Six explains Blue Light is a “safe haven where songwriters feel they can let their creativity flow.” 

Lubbock is a town built on talent. 

Six says “So many good musicians have come out of this town. A lot of these kids come in here hungry, they’ve got a lot of energy and creativity.”

Blue Light hosts artists from everywhere, acting as a support system for numerous artists. Charlie Shafter, an American singer-songwriter who attended school at South Plains College in Levelland, visits Lubbock every so often to perform and relive old memories of Depot District. The Josh Abbott Band began their career playing acoustic open mic shows at Blue Light in 2006. Frequently revisiting Lubbock and Blue Light to connect with their roots, the Josh Abbott Band attracts crowds from all over. Other Blue Light talent features Wade Bowen, Pat Green, Flatland Cavalry, Brandon Adams, William Clark Green, Red Shahan, Randall King and many more. 

Blue Light Live is not only an energetic bar with great drinks, but this space serves as a community for everyone in the music industry. Blue Light is proud to serve local and national artists and provide life-long memories to all who visit. With more than 20 years under it’s belt, Blue Light doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. Check out Blue Lights website and plan your next outing to enjoy home-grown music.