No Hollywood Tour Complete Without It
Sunset Strip tour when visiting Hollywood is kind of a must-see while you’re here. If you’re into music, much of the legend of rock and roll was made right here on Sunset Blvd.
Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, California, is synonymous with the entertainment industry, known worldwide for its vibrant nightlife and rich musical heritage. This legendary strip, often referred to as the "Sunset Strip," has been the epicenter of the music scene for decades, home to some of the most iconic music clubs. These clubs have hosted legendary performances, launched the careers of numerous artists, and become landmarks in their own right. This article explores the history, significance, and cultural impact of some of the most famous music clubs on Sunset Boulevard.
The Whisky a Go Go
History and Evolution
The Whisky a Go Go, located at 8901 Sunset Boulevard, opened its doors in 1964 and quickly became one of the most famous music clubs in the world. Founded by Elmer Valentine, the club was named after a Parisian discotheque, and it was the first live music venue to be termed a "go-go" club. The Whisky's innovative concept of featuring a DJ spinning records between live band sets set a new standard in the club scene.
Legendary Performances and Artists
The Whisky a Go Go is renowned for its role in the careers of numerous rock legends. In the 1960s, it was the launching pad for The Doors, whose house band status solidified their place in rock history. Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and The Who also graced its stage. The club was instrumental in the rise of the Los Angeles rock scene, serving as a platform for both established acts and emerging talent.
In the 1980s, the Whisky became synonymous with the glam metal scene, hosting bands like Mötley Crüe, Guns N' Roses, and Poison. The club's intimate setting allowed fans to experience these bands up close, creating an electric atmosphere that contributed to its legendary status.
Cultural Impact
The Whisky a Go Go's influence extends beyond music. It was a cultural hub during the 1960s counterculture movement, a place where music, fashion, and social change intersected. The club's iconic status has been cemented by its inclusion in films, documentaries, and music videos, making it a symbol of rock 'n' roll rebellion and creativity.
The Roxy Theatre
History and Evolution
The Roxy Theatre, located at 9009 Sunset Boulevard, was founded in 1973 by music industry heavyweights Lou Adler, Elmer Valentine, and a group of partners that included David Geffen. The Roxy quickly established itself as a premier venue for live music, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate setting.
Legendary Performances and Artists
The Roxy has a storied history of hosting groundbreaking performances. In its early days, the club featured a residency by Neil Young, who played the venue to launch his album "Tonight's the Night." The club also hosted the debut American performance of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band in 1975.
The Roxy has been a launching pad for numerous artists across various genres. Prince, Bob Marley, and Frank Zappa are among the legendary performers who have graced its stage. The club has also been a crucial venue for punk and new wave acts, with bands like The Ramones, The Clash, and The Talking Heads performing there.
Cultural Impact
The Roxy's influence on the music scene is undeniable. It has been a venue where artists experiment and push the boundaries of their craft. The club's role in the development of live music performance techniques and its impact on the recording industry, with numerous live albums recorded there, highlight its significance. The Roxy remains a vital part of Los Angeles' music culture, continuing to host a diverse array of artists and maintaining its reputation as a legendary venue.
The Troubadour
History and Evolution
The Troubadour, located at 9081 Santa Monica Boulevard, just off Sunset Boulevard, was opened in 1957 by Doug Weston. Initially a coffeehouse, the venue quickly became one of the most important music clubs in Los Angeles. The Troubadour is celebrated for its role in the folk music revival of the 1960s and 1970s and its contributions to the rock and pop scenes.
Legendary Performances and Artists
The Troubadour has a rich history of iconic performances that have shaped the music industry. In the 1960s, it was a pivotal venue for the burgeoning folk music scene, hosting artists like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Joni Mitchell. The club also played a crucial role in the careers of Elton John, who made his U.S. debut there in 1970, and James Taylor, whose early performances at the Troubadour helped him gain a foothold in the industry.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the Troubadour became a hotspot for emerging rock and punk acts. Bands like The Eagles, Tom Waits, and Metallica played early gigs there, solidifying the club's reputation as a breeding ground for talent. The Troubadour's intimate setting allowed for close interaction between artists and audiences, creating memorable and often career-defining performances.
Cultural Impact
The Troubadour's impact on the music industry is profound. It has been a place where new genres and styles have emerged, influencing musical trends and industry practices. The club's dedication to showcasing diverse talent has made it a beloved institution in Los Angeles' music scene. The Troubadour's legacy is also reflected in its contributions to music documentaries and biopics, which highlight its role in shaping the careers of legendary artists.
The Viper Room
History and Evolution
The Viper Room, located at 8852 Sunset Boulevard, opened in 1993 and quickly gained a reputation as a trendy and exclusive nightclub. Co-owned by actor Johnny Depp, the club became known for its dark, intimate atmosphere and its association with Hollywood's elite.
Legendary Performances and Artists
The Viper Room has hosted a wide range of performances, from rock and punk to blues and alternative. The club's opening night featured a performance by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, setting the tone for its musical legacy. Over the years, artists like Johnny Cash, Pearl Jam, and Oasis have performed at the Viper Room, often in surprise or unannounced shows that added to the club's mystique.
The Viper Room has also been a crucial venue for up-and-coming bands, providing a platform for emerging talent to showcase their music. Its intimate setting and reputation for hosting edgy and innovative acts have made it a favorite among musicians and fans alike.
Cultural Impact
The Viper Room's cultural impact extends beyond music. It has been a symbol of Hollywood's nightlife and a gathering place for celebrities. The club's association with high-profile events and its tragic connection to the death of actor River Phoenix in 1993 have added to its storied history. Despite its relatively recent inception, the Viper Room has become a significant part of the Sunset Strip's musical and cultural landscape.
The Rainbow Bar & Grill
History and Evolution
The Rainbow Bar & Grill, located at 9015 Sunset Boulevard, opened in 1972 and quickly became a favorite hangout for rock musicians and fans. Founded by Mario Maglieri, the club was initially a restaurant but soon evolved into a legendary music venue.
Legendary Performances and Artists
The Rainbow Bar & Grill is perhaps best known for its association with the rock and metal scenes of the 1970s and 1980s. The club was a regular haunt for members of bands like Led Zeppelin, The Who, and Guns N' Roses. Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead was a fixture at the Rainbow, often seen playing video poker at the bar.
While the Rainbow has not been primarily known for live music performances, it has hosted countless impromptu jams and has been the site of many rock 'n' roll stories and legends. Its upstairs club, The Roxy Theatre, has often been a complementary venue, with many artists and fans moving between the two.
Cultural Impact
The Rainbow Bar & Grill's impact on the Sunset Strip's music culture is significant. It has been a place where musicians gather, collaborate, and celebrate, contributing to the sense of community within the rock and metal scenes. The club's enduring popularity and its role in rock 'n' roll history make it a beloved institution on Sunset Boulevard.
The Key Club (formerly Gazzarri's)
History and Evolution
The Key Club, located at 9039 Sunset Boulevard, was originally known as Gazzarri's, a nightclub that opened in the 1960s. Bill Gazzarri founded the club, which became famous for its role in the early careers of many rock bands. In the 1990s, the club was transformed into the Key Club, continuing its legacy as a premier music venue until its closure in 2013.
Legendary Performances and Artists
Gazzarri's was known for its vibrant live music scene, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. The club was a launching pad for bands like Van Halen, who played there regularly before achieving international fame. The club also hosted performances by The Doors, Tina Turner, and Johnny Rivers, among others.
As the Key Club, the venue continued to attract top talent and featured a diverse array of musical acts, from rock and metal to hip-hop and electronic music. Artists like Prince, Nine Inch Nails, and Kanye West performed at the Key Club, adding to its storied history.
Cultural Impact
Gazzarri's and the Key Club played a crucial role in the development of the Sunset Strip's music scene. The clubs provided a platform for emerging artists and contributed to the Strip's reputation as a hub for live music. The Key Club's closure marked the end of an era, but its legacy continues to be celebrated by music fans and historians.
The House of Blues
History and Evolution
The House of Blues, located at 8430 Sunset Boulevard, opened in 1994 as part of the national House of Blues chain founded by Isaac Tigrett and Dan Aykroyd. The venue quickly became known for its eclectic mix of musical genres and its commitment to promoting blues, rock, and other forms of American roots music.
Legendary Performances and Artists
The House of Blues has hosted a wide range of performances by some of the biggest names in music. Artists like Bob Dylan, Prince, and Eric Clapton have graced its stage, providing unforgettable experiences for audiences. The venue has also been a platform for emerging talent, supporting a diverse array of artists and genres.
The House of Blues is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and top-notch acoustics, making it a favorite among musicians and fans. The club's Gospel Brunch, featuring live gospel music and a Southern-style buffet, has been a popular event, highlighting its commitment to diverse musical traditions.
Cultural Impact
The House of Blues' impact on the Sunset Strip's music scene is significant. It has provided a space where artists can connect with audiences in an intimate setting, promoting musical diversity and cultural exchange. The venue's commitment to philanthropy, including its support for music education programs, has further solidified its role as a cultural institution.
Conclusion
Sunset Boulevard's music clubs have played an integral role in shaping the landscape of popular music and culture. From the Whisky a Go Go's rock 'n' roll legacy to the Roxy Theatre's eclectic performances, the Troubadour's folk and rock influence, the Viper Room's edgy atmosphere, the Rainbow Bar & Grill's rock hangout status, the Key Club's diverse offerings, and the House of Blues' commitment to musical diversity, each club has contributed uniquely to the vibrant history of the Sunset Strip.
These venues have not only hosted legendary performances but have also served as cultural hubs where music, art, and social movements intersect. They have provided platforms for emerging artists, facilitated the growth of new genres, and created lasting memories for audiences and performers alike.
The enduring legacy of these music clubs is a testament to the power of live music and its ability to bring people together. As the music industry continues to evolve, the iconic clubs of Sunset Boulevard remain vital landmarks, celebrating the rich heritage and dynamic future of the Los Angeles music scene.
Comments