National rap groups will still perform at The Waiting Room, but not local artists, said Marc Leibowitz, co-owner of the venue and a partner in 1% Productions, which produces shows at the lounge. A few more local rap artists are scheduled for the adjoining Reverb Lounge, and once those shows are done, that venue also will cease hosting local rap, Leibowitz said.

“Rap has been a part of my entire life; I’m not happy about it,” the 45-year-old Leibowitz said. “It’s not what’s overall best for the music scene, but it might be what’s best for Benson and for the community. I hope someday we can bring it back.”

Local rap musicians and promoters say the decision is a blow to aspiring artists and Omaha’s hip-hop culture.

“The Waiting Room has been on the forefront of helping these artists out,” said Houston Alexander, a local deejay and radio personality, who described The Waiting Room as today’s equivalent of Omaha’s Ranch Bowl from years gone by for its willingness to nurture talent by providing a credible showcase.

“The artists on stage are trying to do something positive with themselves, and The Waiting Room is super important — it’s vital to the hip-hop scene, it’s vital to the rock scene, it’s vital to country,” Alexander said.