When many Sacramentans think of Fox & Goose, the British-style pub located at R and 10th Streets in downtown Sacramento, they think of traditional english breakfasts. But just as many folks think of the pub’s reputation for presenting live music.
Allyson Dalton’s parents started the restaurant in 1975 and from the beginning they had live music. Now she’s the owner and has continued the tradition of bringing in local talent and hosting low-key, low-admission shows most nights of the week.
“We started with just having simple folk singing in the ‘70s and then progressed to having an open mic night and it just grew from there,” says Dalton. “We were always about having local talent and local entertainment.”
Dalton starts rattling off names that have graced the Fox & Goose stage. It’s a long list including notables such as Jackie Greene and Cake.
“We’ve had so many amazing musicians come through this door it’s hard to recount all of them.”
Throughout its history, Fox and Goose has remained close of its musical roots, bringing in mostly Americana and bluegrass acts. She says the pub isn’t trying to make a fuss or bring in huge names. The goal is to find undiscovered talent and highlight it.
“We’re more about being a neighborhood pub that has great live music,” she says. “We’ve had a major impact on the music scene in Sacramento – it’s been an important part of Fox and Goose to provide this live music venue.”
Frank Mouton played many shows at Fox & Goose in the ‘80s and ‘90s with his band the Blue Moon Boys. He also booked shows for the space from 2000 to 2010.
“Fox and Goose was always Sacramento musicians’ place to play,” says Mouton. “It’s been great for Sacramento; I hope they do music there forever.”
The Blue Moon Boys play a reunion show tomorrow night in honor of the 40th anniversary. They’ll be joined with the Mike Justis Band, Be Brave Bold Robot and Steve McClain.