Starting July 3, Belly Up in Solana Beach, California, celebrates its 50th anniversary with 50 Years and 50 Shows. It promises to be an amazing salute to the iconic venue.

Opened in September 1974, landmark Belly Up became noted for blues legends. Over the years its lineups spanned all genres, including folk, hip-hop and rock. Its professional but laid-back atmosphere drew thousands of musical acts and many more fans. After establishing itself in California, Belly Up became a concert and festival promoter nationwide as well as launching a record label.

© Belly Up

Previous acts include BB King, Etta James, Green Day and Billy Vera, interviewed on Global Traveler a few months ago. Speaking about Belly Up, Vera told me, “We played there several times. It was huge, lots of dancers. One night Jimmy Buffett came up on stage with us and just played guitar.” That’s the type of magic that happens at Belly Up.

© Belly Up

Following in the footsteps of 50 years of amazing musicians are 50 great acts of today. Starting with 80s Heat with Bella Lux and culminating with the Wallflowers, Belly Up will rock with its usual eclectic lineup of performers.

© Belly Up

President Chris Goldsmith, a seven-time Grammy winner, has been associated with Belly Up since 1982. Goldsmith told me, “San Diego is not known as a big music town, but there is a surprisingly engaged audience here, and we’re doing our best to bring in great live music and provide a high-quality experience for both the artists and fans.”

When I told my musician friends I was interviewing Chris about Belly Up, everyone was full of praise. California-based musician Franki Pineapple simply summed it perfectly, “It’s a legendary spot.”

Happy anniversary, Belly Up. I only wish I could be there to celebrate.

— John Wroblewski, online writer