Historic Bobby Mackey’s Music World in Wilder, KY Faces Demolition in Early 2024
Wilder, KY – November 3, 2023
In a heart-wrenching announcement that has left many in the paranormal and entertainment communities in shock, Bobby Mackey’s Music World, a historic honky-tonk located in Wilder, Kentucky, is set to close its doors and face demolition early in 2024. This iconic venue, known for its rich history, tales of the supernatural, and unforgettable live music, has been a staple of the local community and has garnered international fame thanks to the TV series “Ghost Adventures.”
Bobby Mackey’s Music World, which has been in operation for over four decades, has a long and colorful history. It first opened its doors in the late 1970s when it was purchased by the country singer Bobby Mackey himself. Mackey, a well-known musician in his own right, transformed the establishment into a honky-tonk and country music hub, attracting country music fans from near and far.
The music world’s mystique has been significantly amplified by the legend of a portal to hell that is said to be located within the building. The portal is believed to be associated with a former slaughterhouse that stood on the site, and it has garnered the attention of paranormal enthusiasts worldwide. One of the most famous spirits allegedly tied to the portal is Johanna, a young woman who met a tragic fate in the early 19th century. Her story, which has been passed down through generations, adds an aura of tragedy to the establishment.
Bobby Mackey, the bar’s owner, has become a fixture in the local community and the country music scene. Over the years, he has embraced the supernatural legends surrounding his establishment and even penned a song, “Johanna,” inspired by the alleged hauntings. Mackey’s music has struck a chord with fans of the supernatural, making his honky-tonk an even more significant draw for those seeking a thrill beyond just the music.
The notoriety of Bobby Mackey’s Music World in the world of the paranormal skyrocketed thanks to the popular television series “Ghost Adventures.” The crew, led by Zak Bagans, Nick Groff, and Aaron Goodwin, explored the establishment in a 2008 episode that became an iconic piece of paranormal television. The investigations carried out in the episode reportedly encountered eerie phenomena, adding to the establishment’s haunted reputation.
In addition to its regular operations, Bobby Mackey’s Music World has been the site of numerous ghost tour events, where visitors could explore the building’s eerie past and, if they dared, venture into the basement where the infamous portal to hell is said to reside. These tours have been a unique blend of history, folklore, and spine-tingling encounters, making them a popular attraction for those seeking a different kind of nightlife experience.
The decision to close Bobby Mackey’s Music World and demolish the building early in 2024 comes as a shock to many who have cherished its unique blend of country music and paranormal intrigue. The reasons behind this decision remain undisclosed at this time, leaving fans and paranormal enthusiasts eagerly awaiting further details.
As the final notes of live music echo through its halls and the last ghost tours are conducted, Bobby Mackey’s Music World will leave behind an indelible legacy that has fascinated and haunted generations. Its history, the portal to hell, the stories of Johanna, and the notoriety of its hauntings will continue to captivate the imagination, even as its physical presence fades into memory.
Ghost Hunt Weekends, the World’s Largest Paranormal Event Company will be hosting the Final Goodbye Ghost Hunt Tour, Friday & Saturday January 12 & 13, 2024 with special TV Reality Ghost Hunt Show stars, Mike Gonsalves and Chris Smith from Travel Channel’s “Haunted Towns” and “Ghost Asylum”.
