If you lived in or around New York City you knew of the legendary Bottom Line. Located at at 15 West Fourth Street between Broadway and Washington Square Park, the venerable music venue, owned by Allan Pepper and Stanley Snadowsky, opened its doors February 12, 1974. One of the premier music clubs in Manhattan, was the birthplace of many music acts. Shows by Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison, The New York Dolls, Lou Reed, Patti Smith, The Ramones, Hall & Oates, Miles Davis, Bill Evans, Charles Mingus, Toots and the Maytals … and of course The A’s.
The Bottom Line also “introduced” many acts via showcases. You just got a record contract? You were courting the major labels? You probably played a showcase at the Bottom Line. Many a career was launched from this stage. The Bottom Line seated 400 people and had a no smoking policy long before that restriction became New York City law. It was one of the most intimate places to see music in NYC. No matter where you sat, or stood, you had a great view of the stage and the band.
Following are photos of Richard, Rocco, Terry, Rick, and Mikey from the stage of the Bottom Line June 9, 1981. Enjoy!
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