The Spirit of Gilley's
The Beginning...
Gilley’s was born in 1971 with the opening of the legendary Gilley’s Nightclub in Pasadena, Texas, a partnership between Mickey Gilley and Sherwood Cryer. Together, they created a venue where country music and honky-tonk culture came alive. The club quickly became a cultural icon for music lovers and party-goers alike, a place where unforgettable memories were made and legends were born. At its peak, Gilley’s earned a spot in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest nightclub, a testament to its size, energy, and influence in shaping Texas country music history. It was here that the famous mechanical bull and the wild, spirited honky-tonk nights became an integral part of country music culture.
The Legend...
The Gilley’s brand was built on the bold spirit of Mickey Gilley—his love for country music and his vision for creating a legendary nightlife experience. Mickey’s career includes 17 #1 hits, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and unforgettable songs like “Room Full of Roses,” “Stand by Me,” and “Girls Get Prettier at Closing Time.” His passion for country music and honky-tonk culture laid the foundation for the Gilley’s brand we know today. From the iconic Urban Cowboy movie to the legendary Gilley’s nightclub, Mickey’s influence continues to define what Gilley’s stands for.
The Legacy...
After the passing of Mickey Gilley, the Gilley’s brand remains a cherished part of Texas honky-tonk culture, with Mickey’s three children now leading the brand. As the owners of Gilley’s, they honor their father’s legacy by continuing to offer the bold spirit and Texas pride that made Gilley’s an icon. Today, Gilley’s has expanded with licensed entertainment facilities in Las Vegas, NV, Dallas, TX, and Durant, OK, where each location carries on the spirit of the original Gilley’s honky-tonk, bringing the same energy, music, and fun to new generations of fans. Additionally, Gilley’s Foods & Beverage continues to share the legacy through authentic Texas-inspired products, ensuring that the Gilley’s experience extends beyond the nightclub and into homes across the country.
The Spirit of the Urban Cowboy...
At Gilley’s, we’re proud to embody the true spirit of the Urban Cowboy—where honky-tonk culture, country music, and the legendary Gilley’s nightclub meet. The iconic Urban Cowboy movie, filmed at the original Gilley’s, brought the honky-tonk experience to a global audience, solidifying Gilley’s as a symbol of Texas country music. Whether you’re enjoying our iconic merchandise or tapping into the energy of the original Gilley’s, we continue to bring the Texas country spirit to life for fans of all generations.
Today...
Join us in celebrating the Gilley’s legacy and the spirit of the Urban Cowboy. Explore our exclusive products and become part of a community that keeps the bold, free-spirited energy of Texas honky-tonk alive. Whether you’re enjoying a cold Gilley’s beer, wearing our classic merchandise, or cooking up a Texas-inspired meal, we welcome you to the Gilley’s family.
To learn more about the Gilley’s brand and our commitment to preserving Mickey Gilley’s legacy, be sure to explore our full range of authentic Gilley’s products right here on Gilleys.com.