by Bill Pearis
Washington DC rock venue the 9:30 Club is celebrating its 35th anniversary, and 20th anniversary in its currently location, this year. To commemorate the occasion there’s a limited-edition book featuring essays, rare photos and more:
This truly stunning work of art will feature-never before seen photos, stories and firsthand insider accounts of experiences during the 9:30 Club’s tenure. Everyone from D.C. icon Ian MacKaye (Minor Threat, Fugazi, Dischord Records), to the club’s original owner Dody DiSanto, to current co-owners Seth Hurwitz and Rich Heinecke, to Dave Grohl (Nirvana and Foo Fighters), Chuck D of Public Enemy, Sarah McLachlan, Natalie Merchant and members of Bastille and Fall Out Boy – and scores more – tell their stories.
Additionally, there is an exhibition called the “9:30 World’s Fair” which happens at the venue’s current location from January 5 – 9 that is…
all-encompassing experience highlighting the historic past and present of the 9:30 Club and chronicling 35 years of memories and memorabilia from musicians, staff and fans. Attendees will be immersed in interactive visuals and jaw-dropping historical imagery.
The original 930 F Street location was an iconic club for the DC scene, with some inconvenient support poles that ofter blocked your view (all part of the fun), and the club had a distinct odor that would linger on your clothes for days. I can still smell it. Hopefully there is an “odor” portion to the exhibit (and book). Tickets for the exhibition are free but must be aquired through Ticketfly. The first three days are sold out, but tickets for the January 8 & 9 dates become available Friday (12/18) at 10 AM.