If you've ever lived in Rockford, IL you've probably said this more than once. You may have even agreed after reading the title of this blog. If this is true for you, shut your trap. Realistically there is plenty to do in the fine city of Rockford, IL but you must be open-minded and open-eyed to find ways to entertain yourself. Music, art, "culture," museums, restaurants, and nightlife can be found throughout the entire city. "Nightlife" is debatable at times, but fine websites like RockfordNightOut.com keep you up-to-date with what's happening all over town.

The thing I'm sure everyone can agree upon is the music/entertainment in this city. Let's be honest, the only things that sell out the MetroCentre are country music, rodeos, and sometimes professional wrestling. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying there's anything wrong with those three things, I can find a way to enjoy all three, but when it comes to Rockford not everyone is like me. "Rockford" wants to be a mini Chicago but there is only one Chicago. I think what "Rockford" wants is Today's Best Music. Just kidding, I figured I would throw that in there. Seriously though, Rockford wants entertainment diversity. It seems like the same acts are stopping in Rockford year after year, national or regional. This is all fine and dandy, I've made some great friends through shows like these, however let's mix it up. Easier said than done. It takes a diehard fan to travel deep into the heart of an unfamiliar city to see a concert. Most of our decent venues are in downtown Rockford which is fine for us and these venues are awesome in their own way, but if you're not from Rockford, that trip down State Street can seem like an eternity. It's been said over and over and over again that we need something on the east side of town, near I-90, and I'll certainly agree.

Finally, someone is putting their money where their mouth is and wants to heat things up! "They" want to spice it up; make it hot, if you will. Hell, they want Rockford to be renamed HOTford! The people behind that old awesome venue in Poplar Grove have decided it's time to take a trip down 76 (or 173) and take it to Rockford. Chubby Rain House of Tunes closed its doors, took down all the visiting bands merch, countless beers merch, and put away all those signed guitars, and sat back to collect their thoughts. No doubt there were a few beverages that went along with the thought process, but "the Guide" and his crew came up with a master plan and are ready to get the ball rolling. H.O.T. Rockford will be a bar/restaurant, state of the art nightclub, merchandise/box office, and a LIVE MUSIC VENUE. By the way, this will all be an environmentally friendly atmosphere that will be loved by visitors, music fans, and bands as well. [See the layout at the bottom of this blog.] Aside from everything just mentioned, toss in a tattoo parlor and a fully equipped professional production studio with a green room to accomadate live acts as if they were at the Grammy's. Now you've got yourself a helluva attraction. This 30,000sqft venue can hold up to 2,000 people in one location. Get ready for a party! Check back for more updates about H.O.T. Rockford because I'm guessing this won't be the last time I talk about them.

Want more info?! Facebook.com/hotrockford & hotrockford.com!