The History of The Masque In Los Angeles, USA Venue

The Masque was a legendary music venue located at 6655 Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, that played an important role in the development of the city's punk rock and new wave scenes in the 1970s and 1980s. It was originally a burlesque theater known as the Gayety burlesque and later, the Palms burlesque.

History:

  1. Early Years (1960s):

    • The venue initially hosted burlesque shows and live music performances.
    • In the early 1960s, it began to attract a younger crowd interested in rock and roll and psychedelic music.
  2. The Strip (1970s):

    • In 1972, the venue was renamed The Masque and relocated to 8179 Santa Monica Boulevard.
    • It quickly became a hub for Los Angeles' punk rock scene.
    • Notable acts that performed at The Masque during this time included The Ramones, The Germs, X, Black Flag, and The Go-Gos.
  3. Move to Hollywood and Rise of New Wave (1977):

    • In 1977, The Masque moved to its final location at 6655 Hollywood Boulevard.
    • This era saw the emergence of new wave music, and The Masque became a premier venue for showcasing these artists.
    • Bands like Blondie, Devo, The B-52's, Talking Heads, and Iggy Pop graced the stage during this time.
  4. Punk and Hardcore Era (1980s):

    • In the early 1980s, The Masque's focus shifted back towards punk rock and hardcore.
    • Bands like Fear, The Circle Jerks, The Dead Kennedys, and The Misfits performed there regularly.
    • The venue also hosted legendary shows featuring artists like Bad Brains, Minor Threat, and SSD.
  5. Decline and Closure (Late 1980s):

    • As the 1980s progressed, The Masque began facing financial difficulties.
    • The rise of larger venues and changing musical tastes contributed to its decline.
    • In 1989, The Masque officially closed its doors.
  6. Legacy:

    • The Masque played a crucial role in nurturing and showcasing some of the most influential bands of the punk rock, new wave, and hardcore scenes.
    • It provided a platform for these artists to gain exposure and connect with their fans.
    • Many musicians and music enthusiasts regard The Masque as a pivotal venue that helped shape the Los Angeles music scene.

Bands That Played The Masque In Los Angeles, USA