A timeline of how CBGB became the cornerstone of music evolution in the 1970s
CBGB evolved from a struggling New York bar into a crucial launching point for punk, new wave and alternative music during the 1970s, providing a regular stage for emerging artists to develop distinctive sounds and audiences.
– December 1973: Hilly Kristal opens CBGB at 315 Bowery, originally intending it for country, bluegrass and blues.
– May 1974: Television perform a formative early show, with the Stilettos—soon to become Blondie—supporting.
– August 1974: The Ramones begin playing at the venue, helping establish its reputation as punk’s New York home.
– Mid-to-late 1970s: Patti Smith, Talking Heads, Blondie and other acts make CBGB a centre for experimentation beyond straightforward punk.
– The venue’s influence spreads internationally as its artists shape punk, new wave and subsequent alternative scenes.
- CBGB became punk’s key New York incubator.
- Its original musical focus quickly changed.
- Major 1970s artists developed there.