Iconic pub to keep on rocking after tough year
ICONIC Birmingham pub Scruffy Murphys is looking to the future after being awarded a prestigious gong to mark its 20th anniversary as a dedicted rock venue.
The pub, opposite the city’s Crown Court, has been a beloved live music venue in the city centre for decades, serving the likes of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Noddy Holder and Lemmy of Motorhead.
But it was hit hard during the pandemic and in December 2020 fans mounted a desperate bid to save the establishment, once dubbed the “home of rock”.
The award was presented to founder Paul Phillips at the Newton Street bar by the building’s owner, Star Pubs & Bars. Bosses said it was to recognise the contribution the venue has made to Birmingham’s music scene.
Mr Phillips, who previously worked in the car industry and had no musical experience, has invested more than £300,000 to keep Scruffy’s at the top of its game.
The pub has provided a stage for up-and-coming Brummie talent for decades, with many going on to sign record deals.
It started life as an unloved Irish bar but was transformed after Mr Phillips spotted a gap in the market for a rock venue. In 20 years it has hosted more than 5,000 rock and heavy metal bands. Big-name acts, such as Foggy Molly and
Acey Slade of Murderdolls fame, who would normally perform to crowds of thousands, stopped off to perform at the 130-capacity venue while touring the UK.
“It’s been a tough 18 months for everyone,” Mr Phillips said. “Hospitality and entertainment have been particularly hard hit. The price of closing was eye-watering. The support and encouragement of our followers got us through. At our lowest point, they even raised more than £4,000 to help.
‘‘When we started out, Birmingham
had many more venues like Scruffy Murphys. Now there are only a couple of us left.
“I never thought I’d still be here 20 years on. I couldn’t have done it without the backing of a fantastic team of staff. We’re now serving the children and grandchildren of some of my original customers. Having got through three lockdowns, our next goal is to see some new superstars start careers here.”
Jacqueline Frow, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager, said: “It’s an honour to present this award. Paul has put his heart and soul into Scruffy Murphys and built it into one of the best independent rock pubs and music venues in the UK. It’s a real Birmingham institution. It’s a tribute to Paul that Scruffy Murphys has survived and thrived.”