The line wrapped around the block for the highly anticipated re-opening of Webster Hall with Jay Z. This is his first time performing at the live music venue.  

Webster Hall dates back over 100 years, and has been a concert hall, a recording studio, event space and more. The venue holds up to 1,500 people.

“We are thrilled to bring the venue back, it has such a long-standing amazing history in New York City and is world renowned,” Charley Magrew, of The Bowery Presents said.

The revamped venue comes with several new features like central air, bathrooms and a new bar space. The iconic venue closed its doors in August of 2017 when the former owners announced the need for major renovations. The storied hall is also now under new management, a joint venture between BSE Global and The Bowery Presents.

“We are looking at this as beginning the next chapter for the space bringing up and coming talent and amazing talent who have long-standing history,” Magrew said.

But let’s be honest, the main draw  is Jay Z. Fans were surprised that he was performing in such a small space compared to other venues.  

“We were pretty shocked it was going on at Webster Hall, it’s a pretty small venue. But today is the grand opening, so that’s pretty exciting,” fan Kinga Elias said.

Some people in line wondered if the space is going to have the same charm it had before it closed.

“I’m excited to see what the vibe is going to be. Is it going to be more upscale? Is it going to be rustic or vintage? Looking forward to it,” fan Michelle Shahparast said.