Paul Colby, owner of the Bitter End in New York’s Greenwich Village, has died at the age of 96.

The legendary venue was established in 1961 made a name for itself by showcasing young artists and performers including Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and Billy Crystal.

Colby, who grew up on the Lower East Side, managed the club for 10 years before purchasing it in 1974.

In 2002, he released a memoir titled The Bitter End: Hanging Out at America’s Nightclub.

“It is with a heavy heart The Bitter End would like to announce the loss of our colonel, Paul Colby,” reads a statement on the venue’s website. “In his 70 plus years in the business, Paul has touched the hearts of countless musicians and patrons and helped to launch many great careers in the music industry. Paul was sharp , witty and happy until the end.  Paul will never be forgotten as his legacy will live on Bleecker Street.”

Colby passed away February 13th at his home in Montclair, NJ. A memorial celebrating his life is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.