From Councilmember Nadeau’s office:

“In order to address sound levels in residential neighborhoods while protecting and expanding the local music culture in the District, Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau has introduced the Harmonious Living Amendment Act of 2021, joined by Councilmembers Christina Henderson, Janeese Lewis George and Brooke Pinto.

“This legislation seeks to address the rising tension that we are seeing between performers and neighbors who live in buildings or homes that are not adequately soundproofed, while also celebrating and respecting the long history of street performance and high-quality performance venues,” said Nadeau. “My goal is to ensure that the artists and performers who make our communities so special can co-exist with those who reside in vibrant neighborhoods throughout the District.”

The bill sets soundproofing standards for new residential construction on mixed-use corridors and entertainment districts, with higher requirements for buildings within 300 feet of a performance venue to address crowds and low frequencies. Currently, the District does not require any soundproofing standard for building exteriors. (more…)



1602 U Street, NW. Photo by ken_1001

Yesterday we were asked to investigate the status of Local 16 after a reader saw that google had listed them as permanently closed and I begged them to Say it ain’t so. We waited to hear from the owners before losing all hope. And it’s a good thing because I just heard from the owner, Aman Ayoubi, who tells me they hope to reopen in June: (more…)



rendering courtesy metrobar, coming to 640 Rhode Island Avenue, NE

Here’s a helluva liquor license application for metrobar: “A new class C Tavern inspired by spotlighting the District’s culture in the arts, featuring exhibits, music, movies and community fundraisers. Seating Capacity of 399, Total Occupancy Load of 499 and a Summer Garden with 350 Seats. The License will include an Entertainment Endorsement on both the inside and outside of the premises.”

From a press release:

“Located conveniently off the Rhode Island Ave NE Metro station and alongside the Metropolitan Branch Trail, metrobar is an 11,000 sq ft, mixed-use outdoor space, home to the District’s first refurbished 5000-series Metro train car turned bar. The venue will feature intimate and life-sized art installations, from the railcar itself to the tables, murals, stage, screens, and other programmable segments. (more…)



14th and U Street, NW

“Dear PoPville,

Long-time resident of the neighborhood around 14th & U, NW. Starting last summer someone started playing loud amplified noise, sometimes live, with instruments and singing, but usually recorded, every weekend, and sometimes weekdays, for hours on end, using the Reeves Center’s electrical outlet as their power source. They play the same thing over and over. It stopped over the winter but restarted today (Wednesday) at 330pm. I enjoy live music, but this is repetitive and annoying, especially while we are all confined to our homes. Has anyone else noticed it?”

Another nearby resident wonders the same: (more…)



1073 Wisconsin Avenue, NW (alley)

Potentially painful news from NBC Washington:

“One of the most iconic music venues in the world and a landmark in Washington, D.C., that has been closed due to the pandemic is unlikely to reopen at its original site.

The owner of the building, Snyder Properties, says the building is now for sale.

The owner of the property and the owner of the business said talks between the two sides have stalled.”

Blues Alley’s website says:

“2021 marks the 56th continuous year that we have been serving the jazz population of our Nation’s Capital (more…)



Photo by Vincent

“Dear PoPville,

One of my neighbors organizes a concert in their frontyard, once or twice a week. At first, I thought it was really cute and enjoyed it. Over time, the thing expanded into a full-fledged concert, with microphones, amplifiers, loud speakers, singers, a band, and it typically goes on for 8-10 hours, roughly between lunch time and 10pm. (more…)


These are so sweet and will help the Black Cat – Win, Win!! From Black Cat:

“We’re excited to announce we’ve partnered with Vans and their Foot The Bill program to create this #VansCustoms Era. For every shoe purchased with our design, the net proceeds will go to support the Black Cat. Limited to 500 pairs! Shop Here.”


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