In the heart of Denver’s historic Baker neighborhood stands the Skylark Lounge, a true relic of the city’s musical history. The Skylark first opened its doors in 1943, as a place for local workers to grab a drink and relax after a long day. The Lounge, originally located at 58 Broadway (now Barry’s), moved down to its current location at 140 S. Broadway in 2004.
For a bit the Skylark Lounge struggled to find it’s voice in the music scene, as the live stage sat slightly tucked away in a corner, leaving the bar-centric crowd to feel the music was more background than performance. However, that all changed and now the live music stage is smartly placed upstairs in the Bobcat Club giving concert goers an amazing an intimate experience with a large variety of musicians.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1582024570144{padding-top: 66px !important;padding-bottom: 8px !important;}” el_class=”container-large related” css_mob=”.vc_custom_1582024570145{padding-top: 16px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]The current owners of Skylark Lounge, made some great adjustments, while still paying homage to what it was, before the grand reopening in January 2022. Gone are the old Hollywood posters and ketchup-colored walls. They gave everything a fresh coat of paint and started their own eclectic art collection including original pieces by local artists like Doug Spencer, Greg Deal, Lesley Craig and Andrew Warner.
Local legend, Nathaniel Rateliff, along with Bob Ashby and Chris Tetzeli; happen to be the current owners.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Nathaniel Rateliff: A Guardian of Denver’s Music Heritage
Nathaniel Rateliff’s involvement in Skylark Lounge is more than just ownership; it’s a passionate commitment to preserving the city’s musical roots. Beyond his acclaimed music career, Rateliff is known as the guardian who saved Skylark from gentrification’s grasp. This iconic venue has flourished under Rateliff’s watchful eye, proving that the bond between a musician and a cherished music venue can be unbreakable.
Unforgettable Performances and Musical Legacy
Skylark Lounge’s stage has hosted a diverse array of musicians and bands over the years, earning its reputation as a must-visit spot for music enthusiasts. Notable acts like Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Kiltro, Rootbeer Richie & The Reveille, Disco Doom, Deeper, Airiel, Church Fire and more have graced its intimate space. Skylark hosts all types of bands that bring in a great variety of people and fans.
A Community-Driven Haven for Music Lovers
Skylark Lounge has always been more than a music venue; it’s a place where people from all walks of life gather to enjoy a drink, share stories, and celebrate the universal language of music. The venue’s intimate setting fosters a unique connection between artists and their audience, offering memorable and personal performances that set Skylark apart. This welcoming atmosphere has consistently made it a hub for the community to unite and embrace live music. Skylark Lounge prides itself on being a safe space that welcomes all the good-hearted people of Denver.
They are an independent, locally owned music venue which is becoming more and more rare in Denver. Their aim is to support up and coming musicians and help cultivate the art scene in Denver.
Visiting Skylark Lounge
Skylark is open 7 days a week from 4:00pm to 2:00am. As mentioned previously, they have two floors:
- Downstairs, which is open to the public and requires no cover. Here you can find karaoke, pool tournaments, pinball machines and weekend vinyl DJs.
- 2nd floor is the music venue nicknamed The Bobcat Club. Here you can pay to see local and national bands or attend free monthly Western Wednesday shows on the first Wednesday of the month. Not to mention the occasional dance party.
