CLEVELAND — EDITOR'S NOTE: The above video is from a previous story about the Flats East Bank.
On Wednesday afternoon, multi-Platinum country singer Chase Rice announced he is partnering with Forward Hospitality Group for a new entertainment venue in Cleveland's Flats East Bank Entertainment District.
"Welcome to the Farm" is set to open this December. It will offer visitors live music, drinks, traditional bar food, and a glimpse into the lifestyle behind Rice's music.
"We've been working on this for a while and I’m excited to finally let everyone in on the secret," Rice, whose five top 10 country hits include "Eyes on You" and "Drinkin' Beer. Talkin' God. Amen.", said. "I've had a blast learning about another side of the entertainment and hospitality industry and getting to put my stamp on things at Welcome to the Farm. I can't wait to welcome y'all in December!"
The brand new 5,250-square-foo. building will be located directly on the Cuyahoga River, with space for about 280 people and a center stage where live music will be frequently. Bars will be on each side, with garage doors opening on all sides and a new patio overlooking the water.
The Ohio location is a perfect fit for Rice, whose late father Daniel grew up in Columbus and played football for Ohio State. In the past, Rice has noted how Ohio is one of his favorite places to perform.
"Not only is Ohio special to me as an artist and because of my dad’s connection to the area, but Cleveland itself is also a really inspiring city as a musician," he explained. Rice. "It's awesome to know that we'll be just a mile down the road from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which is home to people like The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Nirvana, Tom Petty and so many more who have all had a huge impact on my career."
Forward Hospitality Group is one of the leading entertainment providers in Cleveland, operating 15 total venues including FWD and Good Night John Boy. According to the official press release, "With the venue, Rice plans to bring the Country lifestyle of his Tennessee farm to the birthplace of Rock & Roll, just as brand-new single 'If I Were Rock & Roll' continues to infuse Country radio with the authentic attitude of the Cleveland-born genre."
"If I Were Rock & Roll" is now available everywhere and has already received praise from fans and the media. Billboard, CMT, Entertainment Tonight, ET Canada and more named the Jay Joyce-produced track among the best new releases of the week, and Music Row lauded the song as "charmingly written,"
"It’s a jaunty ditty about love and fidelity that brings a smile to your face," the review wrote. "The shuffling, bright, light-hearted production is mighty endearing, too."