CBGB was the place to be in the 70s and 80s, they promised shows that felt larger than life, shaping the entire music scene around them. Nights in CBGB gave people an out of their everyday life and into an unforgettable experience.
The place was filled with endless energy and a crowd that went crazy for it even before the show started for the night. Every performance told its own story and every wall held a memory someone still swears changed them.
Looking back at it now, we’re not only looking back at some old venue, but at a place built for memories that will last for years and years. It was loud, messy, and undeniably charming.
1
Before the show
Making it through the line was already a big part of the night.
2
The Ramones
A crowd pushed up to the stage wanting more.
3
Bad Brains
CBGB at its rawest form.
4
The Runaways
Queens of making small stages feel even smaller.
5
Backroom attitude
Regulars looking like they were born there.
6
AC/DC
A tiny stage for what they were about to become.
7
Owning the night
Full volume and full presence.
8
Punk in color
An outfit bold enough to make people stare.
9
Floor level mayhem
The mess was part of the charm.
10
The pit in full swing
Pure reckless energy.
11
Giving it everything
And making the walls shake with bass.
12
Line up at the door
When half the people showed up early.
13
Lester Bangs
About to write the greatest pieces about the bands.
14
Against the graffiti wall
This wall saw more than anyone ever could.
15
The CBGB doorway
Where all the magic happened.
16
Blondie
Debbie turned every corner into a spotlight.
17
Sonic Youth
When the vibes are so good no one cares what the place looks like.
18
Talking Heads
A very loud night for revolution.
19
Punk in full burst
Screaming and dancing in pure adrenaline.
20
A late night hangout
The darker the night, the louder the crowd.
21
Debbie Harry
One gesture that made the whole crowd freeze.
22
Patti Smith
Pouring her heart out on stage.
