Downtown Medford has lost a beloved musical landmark with the permanent closure of Johnny B’s. The venue, which operated for over 25 years in the historic Woolworth Building, announced its final shutdown this week, leaving a significant void in Southern Oregon’s live music landscape.
Known for its inclusive atmosphere, Johnny B’s showcased everything from punk rock to hip hop, hosting both touring acts and local talent. The venue’s popular Tuesday open mic nights provided a platform for musicians, comedians, and poets to share their art with the community.
In their farewell message, management expressed gratitude, saying: “A lot of talent graced our stage, and you all helped create great memories. Keep supporting local art!”
The closure comes despite future events still listed on their website, including a May 2025 performance by The Palmer Squares. No plans have been announced for what will replace the now-vacant downtown space.
Key Points:
- Johnny B’s closes after serving as Medford’s music hub for over 25 years
- Venue welcomed diverse artists across multiple genres at its Woolworth Building location
- Management encouraged continued support of local arts scene in farewell statement
- Upcoming events had been scheduled through May 2025, suggesting closure may have been unexpected
- No announcement on future plans for the vacant downtown space