Home Latest Database Bay Area Guide

The History of Whisky A Go Go In Los Angeles, USA Venue

Whisky a Go Go is a legendary music venue located at 8901 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, California. It is widely regarded as one of the most iconic music venues in the United States and has played a pivotal role in the history of rock and roll music.

1960s: The Birth of the Sunset Strip

The Whisky a Go Go was founded by Elmer Valentine and Renato Salerno in 1964. It was designed as a nightclub with a dance floor and a stage for live music. The venue quickly became a popular hangout for musicians and music lovers alike, and soon became known as one of the epicenters of the burgeoning Los Angeles rock scene.

Some of the early bands to play at the Whisky a Go Go included The Byrds, The Doors, Love, and Buffalo Springfield. These bands helped to define the sound of 1960s rock, and their performances at the Whisky helped to cement the venue's status as a must-see destination for music fans.

1970s: The Rise of Punk and Metal

During the 1970s, the Whisky a Go Go continued to host a diverse range of musical acts. The venue became a popular spot for punk and metal bands, including The Runaways, Aerosmith, and Kiss. These bands brought a new level of energy and excitement to the Sunset Strip, and helped to keep the Whisky a Go Go at the forefront of the music scene.

1980s: The Glam Rock Era

The 1980s saw the rise of glam rock, and the Whisky a Go Go was once again at the forefront of the movement. Bands like Mötley Crüe, Guns N' Roses, and Poison all played at the venue, and their performances helped to define the sound of the era. The Whisky a Go Go became known as a place where anything was possible, and it was a magnet for rock stars and fans alike.

1990s and Beyond: Continuing Legacy

In the 1990s and beyond, the Whisky a Go Go continued to host a wide variety of musical acts, from established stars to up-and-coming artists. The venue has remained a popular destination for music lovers, and it continues to play an important role in the history of rock and roll music.

Today, the Whisky a Go Go is a beloved landmark on the Sunset Strip. It has been designated as a historic-cultural monument by the City of West Hollywood, and it continues to attract music fans from all over the world. The venue has hosted countless legendary performances over the years, and it is a reminder of the enduring power of rock and roll music.

Bands That Played Whisky A Go Go In Los Angeles, USA