Legendary Moondog's Owner Marks Significant Anniversary

BLAWNOX, PA — The question was a simple one. When Ron Esser opened Moondog's 35 years ago, did he expect to still be running the celebrated Pittsburgh bar?

"Hell no," he told Patch with a chuckle. "Honestly, I thought I'd be in Florida now, retired and living large."

Florida's loss is Pittsburgh's gain. Esser, 65, continues to own one of the Pittsburgh area's most successful and long-running bars - and one of the few remaining that book both national and musical acts.

At Moondog’s, Pittsburghers have enjoyed the performances of Susan Tedeschi, Keb’ Mo’, Derek Trucks, Koko Taylor, Luther Allison, Junior Wells, Jimmy Vaughn, Tommy Castro, the Nighthawks, Jimmy Thackery, Maria Muldaur, Pat Travers, Candy Kane, Ana Popovic, former Beatle Pete Best, Johnny “Clyde” Copeland, Walter Trout, Tinsley Ellis, Shemekia Copela, Lil Ed and the Imperials and Long John Hunter.

Moondog’s also has hosted several generations of Pittsburgh area musicians including Norman Nardini, Bill Toms, Guitar Zack, Glen Pavone, Billy Price, Gary Belloma and the Blue Bombers, Jill West and the Blues Attack, the Jimmy Alder Band, Patty Spadero, the SPUDS, Nieds Hotel Band, Good Brother Earl, Bill Deasy and many more.

What keeps Esser going? The music, of course. But also the relationships he has developed - not just with musicians but with his employees, some of whom have been with him since the bar's early days.

"I am blessed," he said. "I have people here who have worked here for three decades. I really believe our group is like a family."

In addition to Moondog’s, Esser has promoted and supported blues artists as a founder and booker of the annual Pittsburgh Blues Festival and by financing blues recordings on his Moondog Records label.

he Florida plans are on hold indefinitely . But how long does Esser plan to keep operating the bar?

"Another 15 years, until I'm 80," he said. "Then I want to hear people say 'Who is that crazy old man sitting outside of Moondog's?'"