The first performer I ever saw at Live Wire Music Hall, shortly after I moved to Savannah four years ago, was the incredible Bobby Lee Rodgers (where are ya, Bob?) Between the Hold Steady, Trigger Hippy (with Joan Osborne), Moonalice (with the also incredible G.E. Smith), Jimmy Herring, Col. Bruce Hampton and innumerable Royal Noise shows, I spent more quality time in the bricky River Street rock house than I probably should have!

Sad, indeed, to find the venerable (at five years old) Live Wire has closed its doors. I don't know all the details - the company's business is nobody's business - but it's really a shame. It's a prime piece of real estate, and doubtless another touristy seafood restaurant is waiting in the wings.

In recent months, we've lost too many live music venues - Screamin' Mimi's 2, Retro on Congress, Desperados and the now-you-see-it-now-you-don't Guitar Bar/Yatta Yatta club. Somebody needs to step up to the plate. Can't we find a JinHi Soucy Rand for our music community?

Gee, do you think downtown rent might be a little on the pricey side?

Live Wire manager Daniel Robertson sent me this message: "This has been a wonderful and challenging endeavor. We helped resurrect Savannah's live music scene and did it with one goal in mind ...bring new and creative music to Savannah by booking bands/musicians from the region and national scene that in some cases were completely unknown in this market.

"Our motto has become ‘Love Live Music,' and I assure you that is exactly what we do. It's been a great ride! We are stuck in a situation that will prevent future shows from occurring at this location, but we will continue to book and produce the best live entertainment in Savannah."