SPANISH FORT — Nestled along the causeway, BlueGill has cultivated a reputation where musicians intertwine with cuisine.

Since its establishment in 1958, the restaurant has embraced the fusion of music and flavors as its defining feature. The music never ceases. Each night of the week from 6 until 10 p.m., this seafood restaurant introduces its guests to musical performances and opens its doors on Fridays and Saturdays to solo artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills from noon until 4 p.m.

“We feel that having live music helps enrich the overall dining experience and provide a little fun,” said Kelli Hollingsworth, general manager of BlueGill.

Hollingsworth said the Jail House Rock singer himself, Elvis Presley, dropped in a year after the restaurant opened in 1959.

Today, it hosts a variety of music genres to ensure everyone enjoys their time.

The general manager said a booking agent is responsible for sourcing and bringing in local artists to perform. This selection process encompasses a range of artists, achieved through a combination of recommendations and artist submissions to the booking agent.

On the night of June 25, the Velcro Pygmies, a rock band native to Louisville, Kentucky, entertained and brought a party to hundreds of guests.

As over 400 people gathered on the outside deck, guests sang along with the band as they performed songs such as "Nothin' But A Good Time," "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Don't Stop Believin.'"

As the show continued, staff ensured customers not only had a good time but were also getting the service they needed. From attending to drink refills and food orders to delivering beverages to guests while they danced in front of the stage, the restaurant's team provided service to all attendees.

Cameron Flener, the lead singer of the Velcro Pygmies, stressed that their performances are not solely about music but also about engaging with the audience and making them part of the show.

“I feel like if you’re going to play live that you should deliver the music in a way that is going to be exciting,” Flener said.

The lead singer added that he and his bandmates love to be able to high five the audience and grab their hands, which makes BlueGill an ideal venue, unlike some who require barricades.

“We love being at a venue, if it’s at a small venue like BlueGill or a large venue like Hangout, we still want people to be on top of us,” Flener said. “Music is already touching, so why not be able to reach up and give the guitar player a high five while it’s happening?”

The founder of the Velcro Pygmies shared his favorite compliment from fans, recounting when someone said, "I don't know what music you played, but I had a great time."

Flener encourages anyone who wants to travel and perform to be willing to do more than perform.

“So many people romanticize this business. People don’t watch us tear it all down, load it in the truck, drive eight hours to the next gig and set it all up,” he said. “My advice for young musicians is do not expect to get paid, and if all you’re going to do is stand on stage and play music, then stay in the basement.
Flener urged up-and-coming performers to captivate the crowd visually and work to earn their place in the spotlight.