It was opened in 1989 by blues musician Buddy Guy[1][2] who still owns the club and makes regular appearances, performing a month of shows each January.

Each year, Legends hosts the annual Chicago Blues Hall of Fame induction celebration.

Prior to his death in 1983, Muddy Waters made Guy promise to "keep Blues alive".

[5] Guy, who had previously co-owned the Checkerboard Lounge on the south side from 1972 until 1985, first opened Legends at 754 South Wabash inside the Loop, behind the Big Hilton on Michigan Avenue, hoping to attract convention attendees from the Hilton.

It serves a menu of Louisiana style Cajun and Soul food including gumbo, jambalaya, chicken and ribs, and catfish po'boys.