When one imagines living the LA lifestyle to the fullest, it’s impossible not to think of nights spent at legendary venues such as The Troubador, The Comedy Store, or The Whiskey A-Go-Go. Unfortunately, these world-famous institutions, and many others, are facing the very real potential of closing their doors forever. Luckily, the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) has united over 2,900 independently owned venues across the country as part of the #SaveOurStages movement. We’d like to take this opportunity to feature a few of our favorite local mainstays that could use your support, as well as a selection of our current listings in their respective neighborhoods. Click here to make a donation that supports all the venues mentioned, or click here to generate a pre-written letter to Congress urging them to take action.
The Whisky A-Go-Go | The Rainbow Bar and Grill
The Whisky A-Go-Go, hailed as the “first real American discothèque,” remains one of the most iconic rock & roll landmarks in the nation. In 1972, Whisky co-founder Elmer Valentine, along with Mario Maglieri, started The Rainbow Bar and Grill. Elton John himself performed at the venue’s grand opening. The rest as they say is history, with notable patrons including such rock royalty as John Lennon, Ringo Starr, Jimmy Page, Ronnie James Dio, Slash, Dave Grohl, Ozzy, and especially Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister.
Just above all the action on the Sunset Strip, rests this Frank Gehry designed architectural on St Ives Drive.
8942 St Ives Dr, Sunset Strip | $4,495,000 | Represented by Jonah Wilson | View Listing
The Comedy Store
The self-proclaimed “greatest comedy club in the world” was established in 1972 and has remained a mainstay of the Strip ever since. Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Chris Rock, Jim Carrey and Whoopi Goldberg are just a few of the prestigious alumni who got their big breaks at “the Store.” A great set within its hallowed halls still has the potential to make a rising comic’s career.
Located only a few blocks from the legendary comedy club, this beautifully remodeled penthouse at the Empire West offers full-service living.
1100 Alta Loma Rd #1704, Sunset Strip | $3,250,000 | Represented by Justin P. Huchel | View Listing
Resident DTLA
Located in Downtown LA’s Arts District, Resident is an authentic neighborhood oasis with its unique combination of an intimate live venue, hip cocktail bar and beautiful outdoor lounge. Independently owned and operated with a focus on emerging talent, Resident is launching its first ever live-streaming concert for free Nov. 7th, RSVP here. Donate directly to support Resident Here
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This scenic unit at the luxurious SkyLofts is centrally located in DTLA between LA Live, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Little Tokyo, and the Broadway Theatre District.
801 S Grand Ave #2001, Downtown LA | $975,000 | Represented by Paul Salazar | View Listing
The Troubadour
Since opening in 1957, the legendary Troubadour in West Hollywood has helped launch some of music’s most iconic names including Elton John, Joni Mitchell, The Byrds, Tom Waits, Guns N Roses, Metallica and many more. “The Troub” recently hosted the Foo Fighters for a live-streamed acoustic set as part of #SOSFest in support of NIVA.
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Located in the neighboring Beverly Grove area, this vintage triplex has ease of access to all that West Hollywood and Melrose-Fairfax has to offer.
418 N Harper Ave, Beverly Grove | $3,280,000 | Represented by Gordon MacGeachy + Denise Moreno | View Listing
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
The quirky Los Feliz home of the alternative comedy troupe that launched many well-known TV & film stars’ careers, the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre is a local favorite with nationwide notoriety. Amy Poehler, Donald Glover, Kate McKinnon, Aubrey Plaza, Nick Kroll, Ed Helms, and more rank among its star-studded alumni.
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Located in the ultra-private guard-gated community of Laughlin Park, this unique architectural residence with explosive city views is just down the street from the comedy landmark.
1961 De Mille Dr, Laughlin Park | $4,799,000 | Represented by Stephen Resnick + Jonathan Nash | View Listing
Harvelle’s
Established in 1931, Harvelle’s Nightclub is the oldest live music venue on the Westside. The historic jazz and blues club aims to remain Santa Monica’s time capsule of a bygone era. Having survived prohibition as a speakeasy, Harvelle’s is riding out current conditions with similar resolve offering regular live-stream performances.
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This clean Santa Monica Mediterranean with ocean views has been meticulously renovated with the finest of finishes, no expense spared.
127 Hollister Ave, Santa Monica | $6,395,000 | Represented by Justin P. Huchel + Drew Fenton | View Listing
Written by Andrew Ledwedge at Hilton & Hyland