In this episode, Bruce Finkelman and Craig Golden, co-founders of 16 on Center, take listeners on an in-depth journey through their entrepreneurial evolution in Chicago’s live music scene. From the early days of the legendary Empty Bottle to their ambitious expansion into new venues and restaurant ventures, they share the story of how they transformed a passion for live music into a flourishing independent venue empire. Their story is one of persistence, creativity, and a deep connection to both the local community and the musicians who made Chicago’s music scene one of the most dynamic in the country.

Throughout the conversation, Bruce and Craig dive into the origins of their most iconic spaces, the challenges they faced along the way, and the pivotal moments that shaped their careers. Their journey is not just about running successful businesses—it’s about cultivating an environment where live music thrives, local talent is nurtured, and audiences experience something real and unforgettable.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The Birth of 16 on Center and The Empty Bottle
  Discover how 16 on Center was founded and how it became synonymous with Chicago’s music scene. Bruce and Craig talk about the humble beginnings of The Empty Bottle, a venue that started as a small bar and evolved into one of the city’s most important spaces for live music. Learn about the unique challenges they faced early on, including their creative solutions for promoting shows both inside and outside the venue.
• How Chicago’s 90s Music Scene Shaped Their Business
  Bruce reflects on the 1990s, a transformative time for the Chicago music scene. Hear how relationships with local musicians, artists, and even publications like the Chicago Reader helped lay the groundwork for what would become a successful venue empire. You’ll also gain insight into how Bruce and Craig navigated the rapid rise of bands that outgrew their venue.
• From the Empty Bottle to Longman & Eagle and New York Ventures
  The conversation expands beyond the music venue world to include Bruce and Craig’s other successful ventures, such as Longman and Eagle, a popular restaurant and bar in Logan Square. Bruce shares the evolution of their restaurant business and hints at their future plans for New York-based projects.
• Bruce’s Personal Journey into Music Venues
  Before launching 16 on Center and transforming the Empty Bottle, Bruce’s passion for music was ignited while working at a live music venue in Columbia, Missouri. He talks about his early experiences in the industry and how they shaped his approach to booking shows and creating a space for live performances.
• Navigating the Challenges of Venue Ownership and Expansion
  Owning property and maintaining multiple venues is not without its challenges. Bruce discusses the importance of property ownership for sustainability and the intricacies of managing multiple spaces, including staff, talent, and finances. He emphasizes how transparency, fair wages, and talent retention are vital for the success of any venue.
• The Salt Shed Project: Transforming an Iconic Space into a Live Music Venue
  One of the most exciting current projects Bruce and Craig are involved in is the Salt Shed, the transformation of the iconic Morton Salt Facility into a unique live music venue. Bruce discusses the vision for the space, the delays caused by COVID-19, and how they plan to bring something new and special to Chicago’s already vibrant music scene.
• The Evolving Live Music Industry and the Legal Landscape
  The conversation also touches on the future of the live music industry, from the role of independent promoters to the impact of the DOJ lawsuit against Live Nation and Ticketmaster. Bruce and Craig offer their perspective on the shifting dynamics of ticketing and how the evolving landscape could affect independent venues.
• Why Live Music Will Always Matter
  Despite the growth of digital media and virtual concerts, Bruce and Craig are confident in the enduring appeal of live music. They discuss the resilience of the live music experience, why it remains central to culture, and why people continue to crave authentic, in-person performances.