John Lennon’s forgotten meltdown at iconic LA club — as Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates its storied past

The Troubadour in Los Angeles is being recognised by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a landmark in music history. The occasion has revived the story of John Lennon’s drunken outburst at the club in 1974, which drew attention to how his drinking and unhappiness during his “Lost Weekend” affected those around him.

Lennon and singer Harry Nilsson heckled the Smothers Brothers during a show, and Lennon punched the duo’s manager when he intervened. Bouncers ejected Lennon, Nilsson and actor Pam Grier; a photographer’s complaint that Lennon hit her was later dismissed. The next morning, Lennon asked his publicist Elliott Mintz to send apologies and flowers, including an expensive bouquet for Grier.