Country music fans in Southern California were devastated Monday night to learn that the San Bernardino's long-standing country bar the Brandin' Iron has had to permanently close its doors.
Owner Bill Thomas confirmed the rumors to K-Frog today, citing necessary roof repairs as being the reason for the closing. He added that the building and business will be sold "as is."
"After 54 years of being the community's meeting place, we hope the legacy of the Brandin' Iron lives on in the hearts of the thousands of employees and millions of guests who have called the Brandin' Iron home. Our hope is that someone comes along to make the repairs so the legacy can live on. Gloria and I have been honored to own and operate the Legendary Brandin' Iron for these 31 years and we are thankful for the memories and friendships we have made. Thank you for being a part of that experience. We will see you down the road."
"The B.I.," as it is known to its regulars, has hosted thousands of country concerts in Southern California, including Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, and countless others.
Featuring live bands and local artists on a weekly basis, the Brandin' Iron was also known for its spacious dance floor, line dance lessons, Juan's homemade salsa, and mechanical bull which was included in a scene from Sacha Baron Cohen's "Borat."