Live at The Marquee!

The Birth of an Iconic Venue

The Marquee Club was established in 1958 at 165 Oxford Street, London. This period marked the beginning of the "Swinging Sixties," a time when post-war austerity was giving way to a more vibrant and dynamic youth culture. The economic boom of the era provided young people with disposable income, fueling a surge in music and fashion. The Marquee Club quickly became a hotspot for Jazz, Rhythm, and Blues, attracting a diverse and enthusiastic crowd.

The Rolling Stones and the 1960s Rock Explosion

In July 1962, The Rolling Stones played one of their earliest gigs at the Marquee Club, marking the beginning of their journey to global stardom. The club became a regular haunt for other legendary artists such as Eric Clapton, The Yardbirds, and The Animals. These performances cemented the Marquee's status as a key landmark in "Swinging" London.

Notable Performers of the 1960s and 1970s

The Marquee Club's stage was graced by a plethora of rock icons throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Some of the most notable performers included:

• Jimi Hendrix
• David Bowie
• The Who
• Yes
• Led Zeppelin
• Pink Floyd
• Genesis

The Punk Revolution of the Late 1970s

The late 1970s saw the rise of Punk as a powerful musical and social movement. The Marquee Club was at the forefront of this revolution, hosting performances by influential Punk bands such as The Clash, The Damned, The Sex Pistols, Generation X, and Siouxsie and the Banshees. Other notable acts like The Jam, The Undertones, and The Cure also made their mark at the venue.

The Synth-Pop and New Wave Era of the 1980s

The 1980s brought a new musical wave characterized by heavy synthesizer use and a distinct pop sensibility. The Marquee Club adapted to this shift, becoming a hub for British Synth-Pop and New Wave acts. Bands like Depeche Mode and New Order found a welcoming stage at the Marquee, further solidifying its reputation as a versatile and influential venue.

The Marquee's Changing Locations

The Marquee Club has undergone several relocations throughout its history. After its initial establishment at 165 Oxford Street, the club moved to 90 Wardour Street in Soho in 1964. This address became synonymous with the Marquee and a pilgrimage site for music enthusiasts. In the 1980s, the club relocated to 105 Charing Cross Road, and in September 2002, it moved to Islington under the management of ex-Eurythmics member Dave Stewart. Although this venture had limited success, the Marquee Club now resides in Leicester Square, continuing to be a beacon of the London music scene.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• The Marquee Club hosted over 1,200 concerts between 1964 and 1988, featuring some of the most influential bands in rock history. Source: The Guardian
• The Rolling Stones' performance at the Marquee in 1962 was attended by only a handful of people, but it marked the beginning of their rise to fame. Source: Rolling Stone
• The Marquee Club was instrumental in the development of the British Blues Boom, which influenced the global rock scene. Source: BBC

Conclusion

The Marquee Club's rich history and its role in shaping the careers of numerous legendary musicians make it an iconic venue in the world of music. From its Jazz and Blues roots in the late 1950s to its pivotal role in the Punk and Synth-Pop movements, the Marquee has continually adapted to the changing musical landscape. Its legacy continues to shine brightly in Leicester Square, serving as a testament to its enduring influence on the London music scene.

This article was written by PC Meehan in 2005.