Birmingham music venue Jukeboxers closes for good - here’s why

The Jukeboxers Duelling Piano Bar underneath Birmingham’s Utilita Arena has closed its doors after being in business for just two years.

The late night cocktail bar had become a popular venue in the city on weekends with its live music and range of street food. But the venue has now closed for good due to the price of rent, business running costs as well as quiet week nights, the owners said in a statement.

The BBC has reported that a utility bill of around £80,000 forced couple and owners Shannon Spreen and Samuel Marks to close the business down. The couple closed the bar on Saturday night (June 10) while Sir Elton John performed to thousands in the Utilita Arena above the venue.

Statement from Jukeboxers

Following the closure, a statement on the bar’s website, read: “After nearly two years of providing great music, laughter, and memories, we say a heart-felt goodbye to Jukeboxers Duelling Piano Bar.

“We want to thank everyone who has supported us over our lifetime, from our regulars who came in nearly every week to the newcomers who stumbled upon our bar by chance and sang their hearts out. Your presence and enthusiasm for live music made our job all the more enjoyable. It’s why we do what we do.

“We have always been committed to offering a unique and entertaining experience to our patrons. From the outside looking in, we seemed to be thriving! Unfortunately, despite our amazing Saturdays and substantial efforts to prop up our weeknights, the high expenses of rent, utilities, business rates, and the running costs to provide the concept we love, live and breathe have made it impossible for us to continue as a venue.”