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The 320 Club was a celebrated nightclub in the United States, most famously associated with the thriving jazz and R&B scenes of mid-20th century Minneapolis, Minnesota. Established in the late 1940s, the venue rapidly earned a reputation as a cornerstone in the city’s nightlife, becoming a cultural beacon within the historic “jazz corridor” on the city’s near north side. Known for its dimly lit, intimate ambiance, the 320 Club drew racially diverse crowds during an era of widespread segregation, making it not just a hotspot for entertainment but also a significant gathering place for the African American community and supporters of the local civil rights movement.
Over the decades, the club featured a dynamic blend of live performances, including big band jazz, R&B, and blues acts. Despite its early success, the 320 Club faced challenges as Minneapolis underwent urban renewal and demographic shifts, leading eventually to the venue’s closure in the 1960s. The original structure no longer stands, but the club's contribution to Minneapolis’ cultural fabric is commemorated in local histories and the recollections of past patrons.
Its legacy is noted for nurturing local musical talent and providing a stage for artists during a transformative period in American popular music. Notable artists who graced the 320 Club’s stage include national stars such as Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Bobby Blue Bland, and Gene Ammons, alongside influential Minneapolis legends like Percy Hughes, Morris Wilson, and Irv Williams, cementing the venue’s role as a critical incubator for generations of musicians in both local and national circuits.