The Roxy Theatre is commemorating its 50th anniversary this fall with a lineup of concerts, exhibits, and events, honoring the legacy of this iconic music club situated in West Hollywood in the legendary Sunset Strip. Lou Adler, the owner of the Roxy and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, tells LA TIMES that Neil Young will make a special appearance on September 20th, precisely fifty years after headlining the venue’s grand opening in 1973.
The concert event will serve as a fundraiser for The Painted Turtle and Bridge School, adding a charitable dimension to the celebration. Alongside these memorable performances, the Roxy’s 50th celebrations will be made possible through collaborations with the GRAMMY Museum and West Hollywood Library, both showcasing their unique activations in the coming autumn season.
With all these exciting events and memories to cherish, the Roxy Theatre’s 50th-anniversary celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts and aficionados alike.
On September 12, the West Hollywood Library will unveil its new exhibit, featuring an conversation between Lou Adler and Nic Adler as part of the city’s Artists and Icons series. A reception will take place at the West Hollywood Council Chambers, where they will delve into the history of the venue. Curated by Jasen Emmons, the exhibit will showcase a collection of photographs from the Roxy, accompanied by written anecdotes from the key figures who have played pivotal roles in its legacy. The exhibit will run in the library until May 2024.
Over the past 50 years, the Roxy has been a cornerstone for emerging talent, hosting numerous iconic musicians at the early stages of their careers. Its profound impact on the music industry is evident, as it has been immortalized through live albums by legendary artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Bob Marley, The Ramones, Brian Wilson, Chuck Berry (featuring Tina Turner), Emmylou Harris, Frank Zappa, Richard Pryor, Gladys Knight, Guns N’ Roses, Buzzcocks, George Benson, Todd Rundgren, and Warren Zevon.
Notably, the Roxy holds historical significance as the place where Adler successfully launched The Rocky Horror Show in the US. The opening night audience, including luminaries like Jack Nicholson, Cher, Mick Jagger, and John Lennon, further cemented its iconic status.
Founded in September 1973 by Lou Adler and his then partner Elmer Valentine, the club also garnered the support and involvement of renowned music industry figures like Elliot Roberts, David Geffen, Bill Graham, and Peter Asher, who contributed as investors and consultants. Their collective efforts have helped shape the Roxy into the legendary music institution it is today.
