Victory North: Savannah's Musical Oasis Celebrates Five Years

Savannah's music scene wouldn't be the same without Victory North, the city's vibrant hub for live music. As they hit their five-year milestone, it's clear this venue has become more than just a stage; it's a community.

Victory North has helped to grow the live music experience in Savannah. It's a place where national touring acts and local artists alike feel at home, thanks to top-notch sound, lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The venue has hosted an impressive roster of national acts like Dawes, Living Colour, Moon Taxi, and The Futurebirds, while also championing local talent through events like the Savannah Bluegrass Festival, Savannah Salutes Jimmy Buffett, Georgia on My Mind, and many more.

Local musician Matt Eckstine raves, "Victory North has been a game changer for our musical community and midsize touring bands. For years, we struggled to find suitable venues in Savannah. It's been exciting collaborating with them over the past five years."

"Andrew Sovine, another local artist, shares, "Victory North is a rare gem. It caters to large traveling acts while still feeling like a part of the local community. Every show I've played there is a cherished memory. Local musician Eric Culberson adds, "Victory North is so easy to work with Brian, Chris, and Mohamed. The green room is like a 5-star hotel in New York. It's a first-class, five-star venue."

"Brian Goldman, Victory North's talent buyer, reflects, "Our goal was to create a space for both national and local artists. We've hosted 150 national acts and over 125 local musicians."

Owner Mohamed Eldibany reflects on his favorite moments, "There are so many shows that I like. However, Moon Taxi stands out. It was one of our first sell-out shows. The energy was palpable, with great music and great performance." He continues, "Our opening day was also special. It seemed to me that every single guest had a smile. I recall talking to a young man, that I have never met before. He told me how could he not be happier! Great music in a local neighborhood, with good food and beverages. Just perfect", he said.

Brian Goldman shares his own favorites: "Yonder Mountain String Band headlining the Bluegrass Festival was a great one. Dawes was another favorite. They are brilliant songwriters who normally play venues two times the size of Victory North, so it was an honor to have them. Another band that blew me away was Living Colour. To have a band on stage that I grew up listening to was surreal. To hear "Cult of Personality," a song so far ahead of its time, while standing five feet from the stage was incredible." Both Eldibany and Goldman acknowledge the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eldibany recalls the day he had to shut down the venue, uncertain of the future. "That has to be March 15, 2020. I recall the moment I call the team and told them 'Shut it down.' I had no idea what will happen next or if I will be able to save Victory North.

"Goldman, who arrived in Savannah during the pandemic, remembers the emotional return of live music after months of silence. "As someone that's worked in the music industry for 30-plus years, seeing live music four to five nights a week and then going without it for many months, I'm quite sure I was brought to tears by the first few shows Victory North hosted as we were coming out of the pandemic."

Looking towards the future, Goldman is optimistic about Victory North's role in Savannah's continued growth. "Savannah continues to grow with new and exciting additions every week. Victory North is going to continue to thrive and bring in more talent as more bands play the venue and realize what a special place it is."

Victory North's fifth-anniversary bash promises to be a testament to its resilience, its commitment to the community, and its passion for music. With $5 admission, food, drinks, and games, it's an inclusive celebration for everyone. The night will feature Stan Ray's Soul Satisfaction and The Ben Keiser Band, followed by an open invitation for all musicians to jam together. Stan Ray, brimming with excitement, exclaims, "We're so honored to be a part of Victory North's fifth anniversary! It's the perfect venue, with world-class sound and a welcoming vibe. Savannah is lucky to have it. Can't wait to see you all there!"

Victory North has become an integral part of Savannah's cultural fabric. Its dedication to showcasing a wide array of musical talent, creating a welcoming environment for all music lovers, and persevering through challenging times has made it a cherished institution. As they embark on their next chapter, the future looks bright for Victory North and the Savannah music scene.