Count's Vamp’d Family Resurrection: The Night That Celebrated The Club That We All Called Home!

 

What a killer way to spend a Sunday night in Las Vegas, the city where neon never sleeps and the rock ’n’ roll heartbeat never really dies. Rolling back into Count’s Vamp’d felt like stepping into a time machine tuned to the loudest, rowdiest frequency we ever knew. Catching up with old friends, family, and the diehard Vamp’d tribe reminded every one of us why this place wasn’t just a club; it was home!

First off, massive love to the people who made this reunion roar back to life. Danny and Korie Koker — the king and queen of the Vamp’d kingdom — thank you for all the years of music, madness, late‑night hangs, killer food, cold drinks, and the tightest rock‑family vibes anywhere in Las Vegas. You two don’t just rock… you RAWK!!

And to Valeri Rose, Cathy Alberts, Jen Lynn, and to the YoDog legend himself, Donny DeCecco — the four‑horsemen of Sunday night — thank you for grinding behind the scenes to make this celebration explode the way it did. You all RAWK too!

I’d bet my last poker chip there were a little over 200 rockers packed into that parking lot — swapping stories, hugging it out, laughing loud, and reliving the nights that made Vamp’d the beating heart of the Vegas rock scene for so many years! Music blasting, YoDog serving up the kind of food that keeps the party upright, friends reconnecting, new faces joining the tribe. Memories drifting overhead like the last smoky breath of a midnight encore — hanging in the air long after the stage lights fade.

You could feel the love. You could feel the energy. You could feel the Vamp’d spirit rising again!

It wasn’t just a reunion — it was a celebration of the greatest rock club there ever was, there is, and there ever will be. Count’s Vamp’d lives in all of our hearts forever!

Will we do it again next year? Who knows. But damn… it sure would be nice!

Gary England

The Night That Count's Lights Went Dim

When Danny Koker announced (On May 16th) that his Rock-Bar Count's Vamp'd would be closing their doors on June 28th (29th), it seemed like an eternity to many. With over a month of high-toned concerts and events, made the time seem endless!

But the closing day was finally here. Yesterday, June 28th, 2025, 

"The Night That Count's Lights Went Dim"

Me and the wife arrived at the bar around 6:30. We talked with friends and took a few selfies.

We lined up to get into the club a little before seven. As the doors were opened, we all went in to relax and visit with friends. And to wait in anticipation for the show to start. 

Then suddenly, a few minutes past nine, the theme song from 2001 A Space Odyssey rang out from the stage. The final performance at Vamp'd was soon to begin!

Here's my Story:

Las Vegas turned the volume all the way up last night, as Count's Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill roared into music history with one final, unforgettable night of rock and roll music.

Count's 77, led by the ever-charismatic Danny “Count” Koker, took the stage to give the loyal Vamp’d faithful exactly what they came for: a no-holds-barred celebration of music, memories, and the spirit of rock that defined this venue for over a decade (16 Years).

Opening the night with the likes of CC Rider & Burning Love, the band wasted no time bringing the energy meter up to eleven. Danny Koker’s vocals were raw with passion, while sending out his love and admiration to all the fans (Flashing Rock & Peace Signs). Guitarist John Zito let his slide and blues-infused solos fly, igniting cheers from the crowd. Stoney Curtis blistered through licks with his signature precision, while Barry Barnes held down the groove on bass, and Jeff Tortora kept the thunder rolling behind the kit (Drums).

Throughout the night, the stage served as a revolving door of Vegas rock royalty. While many of Vegas' top musicians and rock stars stopped by to be part of the night! 

Rock Stars and Celebs in attendance last night included (Sorry If I Missed Anyone)

Rob Hussey, Blas Elias, Carmen & Paul Shortino, Phil Soussan, Sebastian Bach, Cassie V. Lapierre Brady, Christian Brady, Korie Koker, Keith Robert War, Paul Cunningham, Nancy Cunningham, Horney Mike, Derek Wallace, Jason Walker, Chase Grijalva, Greg Gee Silver, Les Warner, Danny Wilde, Zowie Bowie, Sally Steele, Eddie Trunk, Brian Tichy, DJ Ashba, Troy Patrick Farrell, Carol-Lyn Liddle Puffer, Patrick Puffer, Donny DeCecco, Keith Steven Caplan, Jay Cee, Jeff Outlaw, David Reed Watson, Tammy Lynn, Andrew Regester, and John Gist, among others that I might have missed in the darkness of the club, sorry!

But the night wasn’t all just blistering rock; there were heartfelt moments, too. Danny Koker paused many times to thank the staff, bands, and fans who kept the fire burning for all these years. At one time, holding up a glass and declaring, “This place wasn’t just a bar — it was a church of rock 'n' roll,” which earned one of many standing ovations of the night. 

The celebration went way into the night (The Next Day)

As the final set drew to a close, many fans began singing every word to every song, with many fans wiping tears from their eyes, knowing this was the last time they’d hear these songs echo off the iconic bar's walls.

The emotional crescendo came when the entire lineup of musicians — past and present — gathered for one final jam. There was laughter, there were tears, and above all, there was unity, the kind only music with friends can deliver.

The final curtain fell not with silence, but with a surge of gratitude and love. Fans lingered long after the amps went cold, hugging staff, swapping stories, and snapping photos in front of the legendary neon sign. Some loyal fans stayed until the sun came up! 

Count’s Vamp’d may no longer be a stop on the Vegas nightlife circuit, but it will always live on in the hearts of those who believed in its mission. To keep real rock 'n' roll alive. 

And on June 28th, it did just that — one last time, loud and proud!

The end. 

Or is it?

Facebook Page

To Be Continued?

GE

Syndication: #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #UniversalMedia, #USAT #garyengland.com #VegasInsider #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly 

A Triumphant Farewell: Todd Kerns and Friends Along With Dr. Rock Brings The Heat One Last Time To Count's Vamp'd !

 {May 23, 2025}

{The Private Meet & Greet}

The walls inside Count’s Vamp’d were buzzing louder than usual Friday night as fans gathered and stood in line to meet one of rock’s most electrifying frontmen, Todd Kerns. And to get their picture taken with Todd and his band. 

Pictured from left to right.

Jimmie B Romero on lead guitar. Todd Kerns out front on vocals & guitar. My good friend and fellow journalist, Taylor T Carlson. Corky Gainsford on drums. And Barry Barnes on bass.

After everyone got to meet Todd and his band, and have their picture taken with them. The doors opened and Vamp'd filled quickly to capacity with fans and rock stars from all over the US.

The meet-and-greet wasn’t just an autograph session; it was a celebration of community, guitars, and grit, reminding everyone why classic rock still has a pulse in Sin City.

{The Show}

First up for the night was Dr. Rock, one of the longest-running, most successful, and popular bands to ever play Las Vegas!

Dr Rock Band Members: 

Dr. Rock Freddie Paguio Lead Vocals, Lou Zaitridge Lead Guitar & Vocals, Kodey Rhoads Lutcavish on guitar & vocals, and William Richards on drums & Vocals.

Dr. Rock delivered a flawless, dynamic performance that perfectly set the tone for the evening, blending classic rock influences with his own brand of music. His setlist included a mix of original compositions (Smile At The Sun) and well-chosen covers (Stone In Love, Bohemian Rhapsody), showcasing his band's musical versatility and deep appreciation for rock traditions. Dr. Rock's commanding stage presence and tight musicianship not only warmed up the crowd but solidified their reputation as a huge force in the local Las Vegas Music scene, leaving the packed house primed and eager for Todd and his friends to take the stage!

On a night that felt more like a backstage pass to the golden age of rock, Todd, with his band, quickly took over the iconic Vegas venue with their awesome music selections (Rebel Yell, Shout It Out Loud, Welcome To The Jungle), and with Todd's signature charm, leather-clad swagger, and a few of his famous friends (Rock Stars) joining Todd and his band during the night onstage. It was like a who's who list of the top stars of rock. Doc Ellis, Al Serrato, Christian Brady, Cassie V. Lapierre Brady, and Brent Muscat left their marks with their signature music during the night. Lol, I just learned that I somehow missed Sebastian Bach showing up to jam "Paradise City" and RUSH with Todd and the band. I did have to leave a bit early to make an East Coast deadline??

{My Take}

Todd Kerns and Friends delivered a powerhouse performance that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. From start to finish, the night was a celebration of pure rock energy, musicianship, and crowd connection. Backed by a talented ensemble of his closest Rock friends, Kerns commanded the stage with his signature charisma and vocal prowess, transforming the intimate venue into a full-throttle rock arena. The evening not only reaffirmed Todd's legacy in the Vegas music scene but also underscored Count’s Vamp’d massive role as a cornerstone for live rock music in our fair city. 

It's time to close this chapter of another awesome night in Count's Vamp'd music history with Todd's well-chosen words during his performance of Welcome To The Jungle.

Do You Know Where You Are?

You're In Count's Vamp'd Baby!

What An Awesome Night!

GE

To be syndicated: #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #USAT #CanadianNews #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #VegasInsider #GaryEngland

Todd Kerns & Friends Event Page

Todd Kerns Facebook

Todd Kerns on Facebook

Dr. Rock Facebook

Dr. Rock Band

Count's Vamp'd on Facebook

Count's Vamp'd Website

Could Deep Pockets And A Wing And A Prayer Save The Day For Count's Vamp'd Las Vegas

 Over the last week or so, losing one of our most popular Las Vegas local night spots in town has become a very big possibility. There has been a ton of speculation from musicians and fans about how this might play out. Will Count's Vamp'd actually close its doors on June 28th? Will someone purchase the popular Rock Bar and save the day for us fans? 

Besides the asking price, it takes some pretty deep pockets to keep a Rock Bar afloat.

How much does it cost to keep the doors open?

Under the neon glow of the Las Vegas skyline, where Elvis impersonators share sidewalks with tourists and slot machines hum in the background, a different kind of entertainment keeps the city’s heart pounding — live rock music. From gritty dive bars to high-energy local clubs, rock venues are a staple of Vegas nightlife. But behind the blaring guitars and flowing drinks lies a far less glamorous reality, running a rock club bar in Las Vegas is a high-stakes financial endeavor. Just how much does it cost to keep the amps buzzing and the beer taps flowing?

The budget for a typical rock club bar in Las Vegas can vary widely depending on size, location, and scope. 

Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect for a mid-sized local venue (capacity: 100–300 people):

If the land and building are purchased. Some of the listed costs below will not pertain.

All costs mentioned are general overall figures. Costs may vary.

Startup Costs (One-Time):

Lease deposit & rent (3–6 months)	$20,000 – $50,000
Renovation/build-out (stage, soundproofing, etc.)	$30,000 – $100,000
Sound & lighting equipment	$20,000 – $75,000
Furniture & fixtures (bar, tables, seating)	$10,000 – $30,000
Licenses & permits (liquor, business, health)	$5,000 – $15,000
Initial inventory (alcohol, mixers, food)	$5,000 – $15,000+
POS system & security	$3,000 – $10,000
Marketing & branding (signage, initial promos)	$5,000 – $20,000
Miscellaneous (legal, insurance, contingency)	$10,000 – $25,000
Total Startup Range	$108,000 – $340,000+

Monthly Operating Costs:

Rent	$5,000 – $15,000
Payroll (bartenders, sound techs, security)	$15,000 – $35,000
Inventory restock	$5,000 – $15,000+
Utilities & insurance	$2,000 – $5,000
**Entertainment (bands, DJs, etc.)	$5,000 – $20,000
Marketing & promotions	$1,000 – $5,000
Maintenance & misc.	$1,000 – $3,000
Total Monthly Range	$34,000 – $98,000+

{My Take}

As you can see by these estimated costs, it takes a ton of dough to keep the club on go!

For fans, a rock club is where memories are made — that first live show, the surprise encore, the night your favorite local band blew the roof off. But behind every epic night is a serious commitment of time, money, and heart from the people who run the place. It’s not cheap, and it’s not easy. 

So, until June 28th, be sure to enjoy the moment! Know this, you’re not just watching an awesome band onstage, you’re part of something built on passion, grit, and a whole lot of love!

Info & Tickets

No matter how June 28th plays out. Las Vegas owes Danny and Korie Koker a ton of thanks & respect. 

Good luck in the future!

GE

To be syndicated #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #USAT #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #VegasInsider #Gary England

For Information & Ticket Sales 

 Count's Vamp'd Official Website

Count's Vamp'd Facebook

"End of an Era: Count's Vamp'd Closes After Years of Rocking Las Vegas"

 The hearts of many fans (Mine Included) have stopped!

My 1st instinct as a writer, journalist & fan is to ask the question: 

Is there anything that the fans (And Local Bands) can do to save OUR Rock Bar?

Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill isn't just another bar—it is a sanctuary for rock and metal fans in a city known for glitz, glam, and entertainment. Founded by Danny “Count” Koker, star of the History Channel’s Counting Cars, the venue opened in 2011 in the former home of Feelgoods on West Sahara Avenue. What followed was a 14-year run that transformed Vamp’d into a cornerstone of Las Vegas’s live music scene.

From Grammy-winning artists to local tribute bands, the stage at Count’s Vamp’d has welcomed acts from all levels of the rock spectrum. Fans could catch intimate shows from rock legends one night and discover rising stars the next. The venue's dedication to genuine, no-frills rock music earned it a fiercely loyal following (Me Included).

Over the years, Count’s Vamp’d has played host to unforgettable performances from bands like LA Guns, Faster Pussycat, Enuff Z’Nuff, and even Michael Monroe of Hanoi Rocks. It's become a second home for tribute bands honoring the likes of Van Halen, KISS, Metallica, and more—bringing nostalgia and energy to fans craving classic rock experiences in an up-close setting.

Vamp’d is also unique in offering fans an intimate meet-and-greet environment, often with band members mingling after shows. 

Unlike the sprawling Las Vegas Strip venues, Vamp’d has soul—and it has heart!

There has been no official statement released detailing the specific reasons for the closure at the time of this writing.

The closure of Count’s Vamp’d leaves a HUGE void in the Las Vegas music landscape. As one of the few off-Strip venues catering specifically to rock and metal fans, its absence will be deeply felt by musicians and concertgoers alike.

The legacy of Count’s Vamp’d will echo for years to come. It's more than a bar. It was a heartbeat of a community, a launching pad for artists, and a home for rockers who found refuge in its dim lights and thunderous sound.

In a city built on reinvention, one can only hope that the spirit of Count’s Vamp’d finds new life in another form.

 If there isn't anything that we, the fans and local bands, can do to save OUR Rock Bar....

Come Saturday, June 28th. 

The local music scene will be losing a legend!

Rock in peace, Count's Vamp’d. You will be missed by many !!

GE

Count's Vamp'd Facebook

Count's Vamp'd Official Website