Good Mood Blues @ Rosa's Lounge

In the mood for blues? Forget the trek downtown and soak in live tunes and all-round good vibes at Rosa’s Lounge. Living up to its claim as Chicago’s friendliest blues lounge, owner Tony Mangiulla greets the crowd and frequents the stage on drums, while mother, “Mama” Rosa tends behind the bar. The duo recently celebrated their 27th year in Logan Square and shows no signs of slowing down.


For those who have never been, Rosa’s Lounge provides a cozy retreat from some of the more tourist-targeted venues in town. The atmosphere here is cool and eclectic. Musical legends and patron graffiti have accumulated on the walls and give the establishment well-loved character.

Last Thursday I had the pleasure of grabbing a beverage and letting the sweet, sweet Chicago style blues take me away. The Blues Jam fronted by legend James Wheeler kicked off around 10pm and by the third tune, “Mojo Workin,” music lovers took to the floor. Other attendants sat back and swayed to the rhythm. The band continued to engage audience members, intermittently cracking jokes between songs.  Despite connotations of “the blues”, I left Rosa’s spirited and wanting more.  It is something everyone should experience.



Catch James Wheeler, Tony Mangiulla, and the rest of the band belt out blues on Thursday’s or drop by on a weekend and take advantage of the local and infinitely talented scene at Rosa’s Lounge. Whether you are looking to sit back and relax or bust out those moves you’ve been rehearsing at home; Rosa’s Lounge is the place to be.


When:
Tuesdays-Saturdays @ 9:30
Cover: $7- $15

Where:
Rosa's Lounge
3420 W. Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647



--Photos and text by Jacquelyn Peterman







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