Roxy Theatre (West Hollywood, California)

2026年10月5日

History of the Roxy Theatre

The Roxy Theatre, often referred to simply as the Roxy, is a renowned nightclub located on the iconic Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, California. It was opened on September 20, 1973, by Elmer Valentine and Lou Adler, alongside original partners David Geffen, Elliot Roberts, and Peter Asher. Lou Adler, a significant figure in the music industry, was also instrumental in bringing the stage play ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ to the United States, with its first American run taking place at the Roxy in 1974.

Before becoming the Roxy, the venue was known as the Largo, an upscale burlesque club, until 1969. The transformation into the Roxy marked a new chapter, quickly establishing itself as a premier destination for live music. The venue’s opening was celebrated with performances by Neil Young and the Santa Monica Flyers, billed as Crazy Horse, who played for the first three days. This set the tone for the Roxy’s reputation as a hub for legendary performances.

The Roxy Theatre and Live Music

Throughout its history, the Roxy Theatre has hosted an impressive array of artists, contributing significantly to its status as a landmark in the live music scene. Notable performances include those by Genesis, who played several consecutive days just three months after the Roxy’s opening, and Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, whose shows in 1975 and 1978 were recorded and later released as part of live albums. The venue’s intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics have been praised by both artists and fans alike.

The Roxy has also been a site for significant live recordings. Neil Young’s ‘Roxy: Tonight’s The Night Live’ was recorded during the venue’s opening days, and Frank Zappa & The Mothers of Invention recorded much of their ‘Roxy and Elsewhere’ album there in December 1973. Other artists such as Bob Marley & The Wailers, Van Morrison, and The Ramones have also performed and recorded live albums at the Roxy, further cementing its place in music history.

In 2014, the Roxy entered a new era when Goldenvoice became its exclusive promoter, bringing in high-profile acts like U2 and Foo Fighters. This partnership has helped maintain the Roxy’s relevance and prestige in the ever-evolving music industry. The Roxy Theatre continues to be a vital part of West Hollywood’s vibrant music scene, offering a stage for both emerging and established artists.