House of Blues on Sunset Strip closes with final concert before demolition

WEST HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- On the main stage at the House of Blues on the Sunset Strip, sound crews prepared for the final performance in what was one of Los Angeles' most popular live music venues.

David Fortin has been working at House of Blues since it opened in 1994. He has seen hundreds of performances over the years, but a few stand out for him.

"There was a night with Elton John and Mary J. Blige. Aerosmith has played here. ZZ Top has played here. Prince did three shows in one night," he said.

The Foundation Room was the perfect place for emerging artists to showcase their acts, while national groups appreciated the intimacy. Local bands played at the bars.

The national chain has more than a dozen locations in other cities, and Fortin said it will find another location in Los Angeles. Until then, the unique furnishings and corrugated tin that came from a cotton gin in Mississippi will be placed in storage.