100 Club To Close By Xmas

[Pete S]

The big distinction between the two for me is the 100 clubs' historical music importance, with jazz greats, punk greats etc having played there since the early forties, Wigan Casino was a dump that put on Northern Soul nights be it some of the biggest, apart from that it doesn't have a huge musical heritage as far as i'm aware.

Did you actually go to Wigan?

I went countless times and I honestly never, with the exception of the toilets, thought of it as being a dump. It was the most exciting place in the world for me at age 16/17.

[Daved]

Simon probably doesn't think the Casino is as worthy because it's not as cool and hip and people wore flares there

[Guest]

Strange how many posters who deride the group that lament Wigan Casino with "Get over it!" somehow don't use this mantra about the closure of the 100 Club.

Can't comment on the other genres and it's 'historical' position but if Ady moves the nighter to a better geographical location with better parking, transport links, etc surely that could provide the impetus required to see another 31 years? It's only a few months ago that the 100 club allnighters were under scrutiny by Ady himself due to lack of numbers. As one door closes, another one opens.

regards,

Dave

Dave as i keep saying it's not just about the 6t's is it. That can move any where and be successful or maybe even more so. It's the venue itself.

Those that did go to Wigan should understand more than most the sheer sense of emotion that's being felt. Also after Wigan shut what happened, did the night move somewhere else and be as successful or did other niters take it's place.

[Pete S]

Dave as i keep saying it's not just about the 6t's is it.

I have to agree with you.

The first time I went, I was in awe of the fact that I was in the same place where the Sex Pistols had played!

[Guest]

I have to agree with you.

The first time I went, I was in awe of the fact that I was in the same place where the Sex Pistols had played!

and Hendrix

[Guest GARV]

The big distinction between the two for me is the 100 clubs' historical music importance, with jazz greats, punk greats etc having played there since the early forties, Wigan Casino was a dump that put on Northern Soul nights be it some of the biggest, apart from that it doesn't have a huge musical heritage as far as i'm aware.

Probably one of the most ill informed & insulting things I've ever read on SS, i don't recall getting my dibbers & dobbers ready for an eye`s down in all my visits to the Casino either.

As Pete has said.......... the Casino was not a "dump", she was old, yes, a bit run down but certainly not a "dump" but she had more atmosphere in her little finger than the 100 will ever have it it stays open another 31 years

[Guest]

There really is no need for a 100 club V's Wigan argument. They both have their place in History it's a crying shame one of them had to close, denying some of us a chance to experience it and it's a shame the other one could close denying others the chance to experience that.

[Pete S]

There really is no need for a 100 club V's Wigan argument. They both have their place in History it's a crying shame one of them had to close, denying some of us a chance to experience it and it's a shame the other one could close denying others the chance to experience that.

That's very strange, I was just about to post exactly the same thing.

The problem is, all of us have our own treasured place. For me it was Wigan, for the people older than me, it was The Torch or The Cats, for their predecessors, it was The Wheel; and for those younger than me, Stafford and The 100 Club are the placest nearest to their hearts because that's where they learned their trade.

Rather than having daft arguments over the respective venues, why not just concentrate on positive ideas as to how the 100 Club can be saved?

I'm not great patron of the place, only been a handful of times but the loss to the soul scene alone if it goes is imeasurable.

[Guest GARV]

There really is no need for a 100 club V's Wigan argument. They both have their place in History it's a crying shame one of them had to close, denying some of us a chance to experience it and it's a shame the other one could close denying others the chance to experience that.

I hope my post did`t come across as an attack on the 100, just responding to what i felt was a lack of respect to the folks who grew up at the Casino & still have a lot of very found & important memories attached to the place.......... its over & i am over it.

Good luck with keeping the 100 open

[Eddie Hubbard]

Did you actually go to Wigan?

I went countless times and I honestly never, with the exception of the toilets, thought of it as being a dump. It was the most exciting place in the world for me at age 16/17.

It was the most exciting place in the world for me up until it closed in 1981 to be honest Pete .I never thought of it as a dump either [ apart from the toilets of course ] .A big part of the weekend was the travelling of course, the train journey , meeting like minded people on the way etc , and I feel the same about the 100 Club .We could probably be there in an hour or so , but stop for a meal on the way , a drink in the Blue posts , and the breakfast in McDonalds afterwards chatting to new and old friends .All part of a memorable weekend Soulin ' stretched out as long as possible .....I'd really miss it if it ended .The toilets and dancefloor need attention of course , but the sense of history in the old venue seems to seep out of the walls , and I always feel a sense of occasion when I visit the 100 Club , it's almost like a musical museum .Best ,Eddie

[Guest]

That's very strange, I was just about to post exactly the same thing.

The problem is, all of us have our own treasured place. For me it was Wigan, for the people older than me, it was The Torch or The Cats, for their predecessors, it was The Wheel; and for those younger than me, Stafford and The 100 Club are the placest nearest to their hearts because that's where they learned their trade.

Rather than having daft arguments over the respective venues, why not just concentrate on positive ideas as to how the 100 Club can be saved?

I'm not great patron of the place, only been a handful of times but the loss to the soul scene alone if it goes is imeasurable.

The 100 club to me is more than just the 6t's. I have great memories of dancing, hearing new tunes and generally opening my eyes to real Soul music, it's where i first heard the Modern soul stuff to thanks to Clarkie and Keb.

But and it's a big But it also where i went to see bands play. From rough Punk gigs to Mod bands like the Jam and Purple Hearts etc and now full circle to see these bands reformed and playing there again. The Specials secret gig last year was one of the best gigs i'd ever been to.

To some of us when you walk down those stairs it's like going home.

[Guest Polyvelts]

I'm sure I'm setting myself up for a major bashing here .... but what the hell !

All of this talk about the 100 clubs cultural importance in the history of Punk (btw I always thought punk was always supposed to be anti-nostalgia!!!!) is totally overblown. True, it did host the September 1976 punk rock festival but very little else besides. As far as I can remember the main Punk venues 77-78 were everywhere BUT the 100 club, the music machine, the nashville, the speakeasy, the Roxy, the vortex, the roundhouse, the marquee etc etc...ask anyone going to punk gigs during this era would say the same -but not in Oxford St (except occasionally crackers ) . If the 100 club is being lauded as the birthplace of Punk, then so equally could the Screen on the Green, the ICA, the RCA, St Martins, Notre Dame Hall etc !

Don't believe the Hype.

[Guest]

I hope my post did`t come across as an attack on the 100, just responding to what i felt was a lack of respect to the folks who grew up at the Casino & still have a lot of very found & important memories attached to the place.......... its over & i am over it.

Good luck with keeping the 100 open

Not at all i understood perfectly where you were coming from. I can understand both points of view but ultimately there is no point if you never went to Wigan you can't just dismiss it, it is part of History

[Guest]

I'm sure I'm setting myself up for a major bashing here .... but what the hell !

All of this talk about the 100 clubs cultural importance in the history of Punk (btw I always thought punk was always supposed to be anti-nostalgia!!!!) is totally overblown. True, it did host the September 1976 punk rock festival but very little else besides. As far as I can remember the main Punk venues 77-78 were everywhere BUT the 100 club, the music machine, the nashville, the speakeasy, the Roxy, the vortex, the roundhouse, the marquee etc etc...ask anyone going to punk gigs during this era would say the same -but not in Oxford St (except occasionally crackers ) . If the 100 club is being lauded as the birthplace of Punk, then so equally could the Screen on the Green, the ICA, the RCA, St Martins, Notre Dame Hall etc !

Don't believe the Hype.

But that's the whole point it isn't just about Punk the same as it's not just about the 6t's. It's about all of it. Punk, Soul, Blues, Jazz, Rock n Roll The 100 club has a bit of all of it in it's History.

https://www.the100club.co.uk/history.asp

There is no where in the world left that has had that many influential artists play in it.

[Guest Polyvelts]

But that's the whole point it isn't just about Punk the same as it's not just about the 6t's. It's about all of it. Punk, Soul, Blues, Jazz, Rock n Roll The 100 club has a bit of all of it in it's History.

https://www.the100clu....uk/history.asp

There is no where in the world left that has had that many influential artists play in it.

Valid point ! Its history does indeed span a wide musical spectrum. (Tho I'd always consider it 90% a Jazz club),

[Pete S]

I'm sure I'm setting myself up for a major bashing here .... but what the hell !

All of this talk about the 100 clubs cultural importance in the history of Punk (btw I always thought punk was always supposed to be anti-nostalgia!!!!) is totally overblown. True, it did host the September 1976 punk rock festival but very little else besides. As far as I can remember the main Punk venues 77-78 were everywhere BUT the 100 club, the music machine, the nashville, the speakeasy, the Roxy, the vortex, the roundhouse, the marquee etc etc...ask anyone going to punk gigs during this era would say the same -but not in Oxford St (except occasionally crackers ) . If the 100 club is being lauded as the birthplace of Punk, then so equally could the Screen on the Green, the ICA, the RCA, St Martins, Notre Dame Hall etc !

Don't believe the Hype.

The last line is just a list of venues that the Pistols played, but like you mention, it's the significance of the Punk festival that does it for the 100 Club. Plus the Damned played their first gig there too I think

[Guest Bearsy]

That's very strange, I was just about to post exactly the same thing.

The problem is, all of us have our own treasured place. For me it was Wigan, for the people older than me, it was The Torch or The Cats, for their predecessors, it was The Wheel; and for those younger than me, Stafford and The 100 Club are the placest nearest to their hearts because that's where they learned their trade.

Rather than having daft arguments over the respective venues, why not just concentrate on positive ideas as to how the 100 Club can be saved?

I'm not great patron of the place, only been a handful of times but the loss to the soul scene alone if it goes is imeasurable.

[Agentsmith]

we live in an age, far removed from the 70's. the first time any creedance was given to saving things, animals, trees or people was when blue peter asked its viewers to save milk bottle tops and foil...the age of innocense...the first cog that turned the wheel. if we had had the foresight then to realise just how important certain things were to us in the bigger picture, perhaps a lot of what we call doom and gloom now i.e. climate change, would just merely be irrelevant words.

so, we lost the casino and a whole generation of other clubs....historical venues, they may be to the northern soul scene, but...saving the 100 club is of vastly superior relevance.this is a landmark venue that has been and still is the comfortable bedfellow of many a musical genre. in no way can you compare a northern soul icon to the importance this club is, in helping to shape the musical culture of this country. its roots steeped in jazz, it spread its net broader to capture new and up and coming artists and bands in the 60's and 70's to enhance its more cosmopolitan appeal. through the last 3 decades it has been more of the same. its even shared its floor space with some northern soul addict by the name of adey, who, just wanted to spin a few tunes in an atmospheric venue.....and he's done remarkably well....for lets say....oh, ......31 years, did someone say?.

its ironic isnt it, that only with age, have we refined our feelings towards things we greatly love...so much so, that we want to make the effort to save them, as we're afraid to lose them.one thing is certain in life....death, we either pass away before these places do, or after....we were too busy living our lives enjoying wigan and the likes too much to even contemplate the day they wouldnt be there....but then what do you expect to do when youre young?.

no, its not really about saving the 100 club for the sake of northern soul, its about saving it for future generations to enjoy, whatever their musical bent...and because its one of london's greatest landmarks. granted, bottle tops aren't going to do the trick , only the filthy lucre crossing some greedy capitalists palm will appease, no matter how distasteful it sounds the doorway to the 100 club should remain a welcoming sign for all music lovers.

[Guest Polyvelts]

The last line is just a list of venues that the Pistols played, but like you mention, it's the significance of the Punk festival that does it for the 100 Club. Plus the Damned played their first gig there too I think

The Pistols did play Screen on the Green but were however supported by the Clash and The Buzzcocks, the clash played early gigs at the iCA supported by Subway Sect but I dont think the Pistols played there nor at the RCA, they did as you rightly state play St Martins and Notre Dame though !

I must admit shamefully that I stand corrected ! just had a look up on net and saw that the Sex Pistols played 9 gigs at the 100 club prior to the Punk Festival ! ! !

Had no idea

Sorry, should have got my facts right before spouting off !!!!!

[Eddie Hubbard]

we live in an age, far removed from the 70's. the first time any creedance was given to saving things, animals, trees or people was when blue peter asked its viewers to save milk bottle tops and foil...the age of innocense...the first cog that turned the wheel. if we had had the foresight then to realise just how important certain things were to us in the bigger picture, perhaps a lot of what we call doom and gloom now i.e. climate change, would just merely be irrelevant words.

so, we lost the casino and a whole generation of other clubs....historical venues, they may be to the northern soul scene, but...saving the 100 club is of vastly superior relevance.this is a landmark venue that has been and still is the comfortable bedfellow of many a musical genre. in no way can you compare a northern soul icon to the importance this club is, in helping to shape the musical culture of this country. its roots steeped in jazz, it spread its net broader to capture new and up and coming artists and bands in the 60's and 70's to enhance its more cosmopolitan appeal. through the last 3 decades it has been more of the same. its even shared its floor space with some northern soul addict by the name of adey, who, just wanted to spin a few tunes in an atmospheric venue.....and he's done remarkably well....for lets say....oh, ......31 years, did someone say?.

its ironic isnt it, that only with age, have we refined our feelings towards things we greatly love...so much so, that we want to make the effort to save them, as we're afraid to lose them.one thing is certain in life....death, we either pass away before these places do, or after....we were too busy living our lives enjoying wigan and the likes too much to even contemplate the day they wouldnt be there....but then what do you expect to do when youre young?.

no, its not really about saving the 100 club for the sake of northern soul, its about saving it for future generations to enjoy, whatever their musical bent...and because its one of london's greatest landmarks. granted, bottle tops aren't going to do the trick , only the filthy lucre crossing some greedy capitalists palm will appease, no matter how distasteful it sounds the doorway to the 100 club should remain a welcoming sign for all music lovers.

Great posting ....

[Ian Dewhirst]

Then I suspect you are lacking in awareness my friend.

The Casino played a larger part in more youth culture than the 100 Club I would wager, albeit not for the same length of time. I'd also be prepared to bet that the Casino influenced more youth than the 100 club in all it's guises, including the youth fuelled punk scene. The numbers through the Casino doors pro rata must be at least ten fold than the 100 Club. Dismissing the Casino as some dump that put on Northern Soul nights displays a certain ignorance in the true lineage of rare soul in UK. Are you a mod/punk/soulie perchance? (I don't ask in any derogatory way), as if you are part of the mod revivalist movement that blistered onto the Northern Scene in the early 80s, I can fully understand your stance in relation to your perceived importance of the Oxford St 'dump' that put on a few jazz, punk and soul gigs albeit some of the smallest.

Concentrating on the soul aspect only (it is after all a soul site), I'd have thought both venues were equally as important in terms of UK soul clubs. Different for sure, but both played a major part in the evolution of rare/Northern Soul. Both ruled the roost at different times, both had unique plays played by unique DJs and followed by devoted fans. I've been present at both clubs when the atmosphere has been electric and I'm sure that ethos will continue in a new location if needs must.

I'm sure if a new location is found that the 6Ts R&S Club will find a second wind and hopefully a second lease of life. People will lust after the 'good old days' for a while but after a few "Get Over Its" I'm sure everyone will move on.

Best,

Dave

Well put and bang on the money Dave. Very diplomatic too. Both venues were/are institutions in their respective eras and the world is and/or will be a sadder place without 'em.

They couldn't preserve the Cavern or the Marquee - both arguably the most influential UK venues of the 60's, so it's been a miracle that the 100 Club has survived so long. But I don't think this a battle they can win to be honest. It doesn't make any financial sense to be located on one of the most expensive streets in the world anyway. I work around the corner and that whole section of London is undergoing major redevelopment so everything's changing. Busby's and the Astoria (and they both had their moments for sure) got caned a few months back for the Tottenham Court Tube area redevelopement scheme. The site of the Royal Middlesex Hospital behind the 100 Club, recently nicknamed 'Noho Square' has been lying idle for a couple of years now but something will happen there shortly apparently. Tin Pan Alley (another site of significant historical importance) will be next to go without a shadow of a doubt. It's obvious what's happening to me. They've gotta keep that central London 'prime location' real-estate value engine pumping. So they're pricing all the old tenants out of the market so they can develop the sites on the most financially important street in the world. It's a no brainer for them and they'll probably get their way 'cos they always do.

What I'd do if I were the owner of the 100 Club would be to maintain ownership of the name and brand, remove all the original fixtures and fittings including the dancefloor and relocate them to a much cheaper and better location which would probably have better facilities anyway. And continue the ethos. The 100 Club brand is the single most valuable assett and was due for an upgrade anyway. Now's the opportunity.

And truth be known, the main thing that Wigan Casino and The 100 Club had in common was the appalling state of the bogs in both gaffs. I mean what's the deal here anyway? Do they think that Soul fans actually enjoy wading through piss, shit and discarded toilet rolls or something?

Ian D

[Guest]

What I'd do if I were the owner of the 100 Club would be to maintain ownership of the name and brand, remove all the original fixtures and fittings including the dancefloor and relocate them to a much cheaper and better location which would probably have better facilities anyway. And continue the ethos. The 100 Club brand is the single most valuable assett and was due for an upgrade anyway. Now's the opportunity.

Talking of brands..

Save the 100 club merchandise https://savethe100club.dizzyjam.com/

Won't happen like that Ian the same as it never happened for The Marquee.

on another note>The UK tax payer pumps millions into The Opera House why can't the 100 club have a bit of it.

[Guest]

I disagree that the the 100 club isnt viable because its on Oxford st . Even if we are not from London we have all played enough games of monopoly to understand whats going on down there now but i honestly believe that place could be a big earner in the future . And not in a bad way . Photo albums of wigan iv seen online get comments from people from allover the world "wow wigan" " ze northern soul" "KTF" kind of thing . Imagine all the jazz and punk fans too. When i went to the 30th anniversery there were people from every corner of the earth grooving away. Like wiggy said it needs to be open during the day and of course that would pull more punters in at night . Tart it up a bit (but not too much) and have a cafe in the day . The dancefloor (unlike wigan) DEFFO needs replacing . Trust me though ,the s***houses are like palaces compared to wigans so keep them the same and then the americans can experience some real history. Infact charge them for the priveledge :-) or make men and women share like the wheel :-). Britains cultural heritage isnt just about posh people and visitors to Oxford st know that. It would be such a shame if it shut like wigan did and i bet if you asked the people who went to wigan the vast majority would say they wish it was still open

[KevH]

Well put and bang on the money Dave. Very diplomatic too. Both venues were/are institutions in their respective eras and the world is and/or will be a sadder place without 'em.

They couldn't preserve the Cavern or the Marquee - both arguably the most influential UK venues of the 60's, so it's been a miracle that the 100 Club has survived so long. But I don't think this a battle they can win to be honest. It doesn't make any financial sense to be located on one of the most expensive streets in the world anyway. I work around the corner and that whole section of London is undergoing major redevelopment so everything's changing. Busby's and the Astoria (and they both had their moments for sure) got caned a few months back for the Tottenham Court Tube area redevelopement scheme. The site of the Royal Middlesex Hospital behind the 100 Club, recently nicknamed 'Noho Square' has been lying idle for a couple of years now but something will happen there shortly apparently. Tin Pan Alley (another site of significant historical importance) will be next to go without a shadow of a doubt. It's obvious what's happening to me. They've gotta keep that central London 'prime location' real-estate value engine pumping. So they're pricing all the old tenants out of the market so they can develop the sites on the most financially important street in the world. It's a no brainer for them and they'll probably get their way 'cos they always do.

What I'd do if I were the owner of the 100 Club would be to maintain ownership of the name and brand, remove all the original fixtures and fittings including the dancefloor and relocate them to a much cheaper and better location which would probably have better facilities anyway. And continue the ethos. The 100 Club brand is the single most valuable assett and was due for an upgrade anyway. Now's the opportunity.

And truth be known, the main thing that Wigan Casino and The 100 Club had in common was the appalling state of the bogs in both gaffs. I mean what's the deal here anyway? Do they think that Soul fans actually enjoy wading through piss, shit and discarded toilet rolls or something?

Ian D

Not very good at complaining are we. .Maybe its our British sense of humour and irony?

[Ian Dewhirst]

I disagree that the the 100 club isnt viable because its on Oxford st . Even if we are not from London we have all played enough games of monopoly to understand whats going on down there now but i honestly believe that place could be a big earner in the future . And not in a bad way . Photo albums of wigan iv seen online get comments from people from allover the world "wow wigan" " ze northern soul" "KTF" kind of thing . Imagine all the jazz and punk fans too. When i went to the 30th anniversery there were people from every corner of the earth grooving away. Like wiggy said it needs to be open during the day and of course that would pull more punters in at night . Tart it up a bit (but not too much) and have a cafe in the day . The dancefloor (unlike wigan) DEFFO needs replacing . Trust me though ,the s***houses are like palaces compared to wigans so keep them the same and then the americans can experience some real history. Infact charge them for the priveledge :-) or make men and women share like the wheel :-). Britains cultural heritage isnt just about posh people and visitors to Oxford st know that. It would be such a shame if it shut like wigan did and i bet if you asked the people who went to wigan the vast majority would say they wish it was still open

Yeah, but to be honest there's a romantic view and a pragmatic view. Both clubs have had a significant effect on my life over different eras. Wigan Casino was an incredible experience for a kid in his teens and to DJ there at such a significant point in the early 70's was really like a fairy tale come true. The best night in the country bar none in that era in my opinion. But the venue itself probably wouldn't have the same degree of attraction to me some 35 years later. I have different needs these days. Much as Iove Wigan, I'll be unlikely to be swinging round there anytime soon 'cos I'm 200 miles away for a start. Circumstances change and people bounce around.

So when I moved to London in '83, by that point I was only a part-time dabbler in the world of Northern Soul. However, the 100 Club was always there throughout the 80's, 90's and 00's, keeping the ethos alive right in the middle of London, so over the last 27 years since, I've ended up down there quite often. Generally inebriated but hey......I always make a point of trying to get down at least once or twice a year because I like to touch base with lots of people that I never generally see. The last couple of times I've probably spent more time outside chatting away with people on Oxford Street having ciggies then I've spent inside.

But if I'm going to be brutally honest, it was never my idea of heaven going to a sweatbox in Oxford Street. Leeds Central was a similar sweatbox so I've done my time don't worry. If The 100 Club continues in it's current location it'll be the most expensive sweatbox in the world! There's a whole heap of great Soho underground clubs that The 100 Club could locate to within a 1/2 mile radius of where they are now which would be much, much better than the current location believe me.

With the current groundswell of support, I'm sure The 100 Club could finance a move to a much better location in Soho and simply transfer the ethos, goodwill and support to an appropriate new venue with much better facilities and a much more supportive vibe.

Honestly, in my opinion this is an opportunity rather than a setback. If I were in their shoes I'd be inclined to argue with National Heritage or the National Lottery that The 100 Club is a national institution and thus needs sufficient funding to relocate to a suitable new location. This is a national treasure and thus should be supported for the outstanding influence it's had on British culture for the last 50 years.

Being re-located within half-a-mile of it's old address would be a godsend rather than a curse IMO.

Ian D

[Ian Dewhirst]

Not very good at complaining are we. .Maybe its our British sense of humour and irony?

Nah. None of us are any good at complaining, except me of course Kev. That's why they get away with it!

Ian D

[Guest son of stan]

Sorry. Just caught up with this one.

It may be sad but its not the end of the world when a commercial enterprise fails. There are worse things happening in the world

Spent a lot of time there in my younger days but based on my more recent,infrequent, visits to the soul dos and my general perception of its standing as a venue, it has just not kept up with the times and has been in decline for years. It's not somewhere I'd bring any of my friends for a night out. Not sure why this is the case, given its prime location and the public's insatiable appetite for both booze and live music....

I agree that it's a shame when these quirky old places close down but its part of a general trend towards corporatisation of our town and city centres and social spaces that has been going on for years. It's no good ignoring all that and then only moaning only when it impinges on your personal subculture. It doesn't have to be this way. They manage to avoid all of this in France, Spain, etc..

[Mattbolton]

I will reiterate that "People" make history not a building .

We might as well all get together in a public lav then and start something revolutionary. And quick. People die like buildings and they only offer some kind of history as long as someone can be arsed to remember them.

For my tuppenth I think it's disaster that something with such massive historical importance is facing near certain death. Not least because I was supposed to have my wedding reception there. But because every GREAT, truly GREAT entertainer performed here. From Jackie Wilson to The Pistols to Miles Davis. Can anyone of us think of anywhere that offers the same heritage over so many years and genres?

Be sure that if it was the Groucho Club that was in such a perilous state it'd have a big grant pumped into it and a big blue plaque on it before you could say 'inherited wealth'. Perhaps this is one fight for which we should put up our dukes and say 'fuck you'.

In a time when the country is slowly sliding into the sea, both metaphorically and literally, it's a shame that we can't be bothered to save the very few things we have left that define British culture. It's all well and good saying that this and that have disappeared in the past, but there's really, truly nowt left anymore and nothing to replace things in their wake.

The Astoria was actually a worse loss because it showed how much influence the wankers at city hall have over things that offer the plebs so much enjoyment. Well done to them on building a starship sized terminus to ship people into a vibrant area they destroyed in the process.

If we're not even prepared to fight for this it's time we all went to sleep and dreamed of better days when there were actually places to go to.

[Guest]

There's a whole heap of great Soho underground clubs that The 100 Club could locate to within a 1/2 mile radius of where they are now which would be much, much better than the current location believe me.

Ian D

eh? Now i've been out and about in London since the late 70's and i can't think of any suitable. Except maybe the Notre Dame and that was a dump to and i'm not even sure it's still there.

And i still can't see how a move would be much much better. You'll still be moving to a dump of an underground club if one exists.

[Guest]

We might as well all get together in a public lav then and start something revolutionary. And quick. People die like buildings and they only offer some kind of history as long as someone can be arsed to remember them.

For my tuppenth I think it's disaster that something with such massive historical importance is facing near certain death. Not least because I was supposed to have my wedding reception there. But because every GREAT, truly GREAT entertainer performed here. From Jackie Wilson to The Pistols to Miles Davis. Can anyone of us think of anywhere that offers the same heritage over so many years and genres?

Be sure that if it was the Groucho Club that was in such a perilous state it'd have a big grant pumped into it and a big blue plaque on it before you could say 'inherited wealth'. Perhaps this is one fight for which we should put up our dukes and say 'fuck you'.

In a time when the country is slowly sliding into the sea, both metaphorically and literally, it's a shame that we can't be bothered to save the very few things we have left that define British culture. It's all well and good saying that this and that have disappeared in the past, but there's really, truly nowt left anymore and nothing to replace things in their wake.

The Astoria was actually a worse loss because it showed how much influence the wankers at city hall have over things that offer the plebs so much enjoyment. Well done to them on building a starship sized terminus to ship people into a vibrant area they destroyed in the process.

If we're not even prepared to fight for this it's time we all went to sleep and dreamed of better days when there were actually places to go to.

Some are trying to save it. https://savethe100club.co.uk/register.html

Another thing i've just thought is when this terminus opens they'll be an influx of people. An influx in need of entertaining. Where better to see the UK's new music talent juxtaposed with the old.

[Guest TONY ROUNCE]

every GREAT, truly GREAT entertainer performed here.

...now you're just being ridiculous. A lot of very talented (and some incredibly untalented) people have performed at the 100 down the decades, but 'every GREAT entertainer'? Did I miss the list that includes Sinatra, Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Fats Domino, James Brown, Dylan, Otis Redding and others of their ilk?...

...try not to get too caught up in the moment, there's a good lad...

Edited September 30, 2010 by TONY ROUNCE

[Guest]

Has anybody had replies to their emails yet? I haven't

[Guest Andy Kempster]

Has anybody had replies to their emails yet? I haven't

when i wrote to boris i got an automated response saying a full response would we up to 20 working days

[Johnmcc]

Strange how many posters who deride the group that lament Wigan Casino with "Get over it!" somehow don't use this mantra about the closure of the 100 Club.

Can't comment on the other genres and it's 'historical' position but if Ady moves the nighter to a better geographical location with better parking, transport links, etc surely that could provide the impetus required to see another 31 years? It's only a few months ago that the 100 club allnighters were under scrutiny by Ady himself due to lack of numbers. As one door closes, another one opens.

regards,

Dave

Spot on Dave.

As much as I like The 100 Club, it's "The 6ts at......(insert venue)" that I go for.

https://www.6ts.info/home.asp

[Guest]

Yeah, but to be honest there's a romantic view and a pragmatic view. Both clubs have had a significant effect on my life over different eras. Wigan Casino was an incredible experience for a kid in his teens and to DJ there at such a significant point in the early 70's was really like a fairy tale come true. The best night in the country bar none in that era in my opinion. But the venue itself probably wouldn't have the same degree of attraction to me some 35 years later. I have different needs these days. Much as Iove Wigan, I'll be unlikely to be swinging round there anytime soon 'cos I'm 200 miles away for a start. Circumstances change and people bounce around.

So when I moved to London in '83, by that point I was only a part-time dabbler in the world of Northern Soul. However, the 100 Club was always there throughout the 80's, 90's and 00's, keeping the ethos alive right in the middle of London, so over the last 27 years since, I've ended up down there quite often. Generally inebriated but hey......I always make a point of trying to get down at least once or twice a year because I like to touch base with lots of people that I never generally see. The last couple of times I've probably spent more time outside chatting away with people on Oxford Street having ciggies then I've spent inside.

But if I'm going to be brutally honest, it was never my idea of heaven going to a sweatbox in Oxford Street. Leeds Central was a similar sweatbox so I've done my time don't worry. If The 100 Club continues in it's current location it'll be the most expensive sweatbox in the world! There's a whole heap of great Soho underground clubs that The 100 Club could locate to within a 1/2 mile radius of where they are now which would be much, much better than the current location believe me.

With the current groundswell of support, I'm sure The 100 Club could finance a move to a much better location in Soho and simply transfer the ethos, goodwill and support to an appropriate new venue with much better facilities and a much more supportive vibe.

Honestly, in my opinion this is an opportunity rather than a setback. If I were in their shoes I'd be inclined to argue with National Heritage or the National Lottery that The 100 Club is a national institution and thus needs sufficient funding to relocate to a suitable new location. This is a national treasure and thus should be supported for the outstanding influence it's had on British culture for the last 50 years.

Being re-located within half-a-mile of it's old address would be a godsend rather than a curse IMO.

Ian D

I remember Leeds Central too Ian , but (with respect for my elders ) this isnt just about US . Its about preserving an important part of Londons working class popular culture and history for future generations . A club that is known worlwide . The 100 Club is special .

What if this had been an important art gallery , opera house or ballet school ?

My previous post WAS the "pragmatic view " , so heres the "romantic view"

Why should WE move on because THEY say so ? !

https://www.culture.gov.uk/

https://www.culture.g...us/default.aspx

Edited September 30, 2010 by twopeople

[Guest aaaaa]

There's a whole heap of great Soho underground clubs that The 100 Club could locate to within a 1/2 mile radius of where they are now which would be much, much better than the current location believe me.

Ian D

i know thar area very well and cant see that myself, all the underground clubs and drinking dens in that area are about a quarter of the size of the 100 club,i cant think of any where in the W1 postcode that you could hold a allnighter on the same scale.

[Ian Dewhirst]

i know thar area very well and cant see that myself, all the underground clubs and drinking dens in that area are about a quarter of the size of the 100 club,i cant think of any where in the W1 postcode that you could hold a allnighter on the same scale.

What's the capacity of the 100 Club then? Maybe it's bigger than I thought........

Ian D

Edited September 30, 2010 by Ian Dewhirst

[Bigsoulman]

What's the capacity of the 100 Club then? Maybe it's bigger than I thought........

Ian D

250/300 isn't it?

[KevH]

250/300 isn't it?

I would have thought less than that.I'll go for 200.

[Johnmcc]

What's the capacity of the 100 Club then? Maybe it's bigger than I thought........

Ian D

I would estimate 300.

[Guest JJMMWGDuPree]

when i wrote to boris i got an automated response saying a full response would we up to 20 working days

When Boris was MP for Henly he made quite a (Rude) name for himself by being the only MP who wouldn't accept emails or faxes from his constituents. He said they made it too easy for "Them" to bother him about stupid, trivial stuff.

I'd say that an answer within 20 days is a huge step forward.

But I wouldn't go expecting a positive response...

[nsoul2]

I would estimate 300.

The capacity is 350

[nsoul2]

When Boris was MP for Henly he made quite a (Rude) name for himself by being the only MP who wouldn't accept emails or faxes from his constituents. He said they made it too easy for "Them" to bother him about stupid, trivial stuff.

I'd say that an answer within 20 days is a huge step forward.

But I wouldn't go expecting a positive response...

The heavyweight politician to try and get involved has to be avowed jazz fan Kenneth Clrke

[Johnmcc]

The capacity is 350

Legally (See Fire Safety Regs) - depends on chosen layout, number and position of chairs and tables etc.

For a soul night(er) the hirer would presumably reduce the limit themself to allow dancing!

John

[Agentsmith]

I would estimate 300.

stands to reason its 300.....because thats how many tickets adey issues for the anniversary, regardless of wether that many turn-up....NOT THAT THEY DONT!!

[vince ayres]

What a bloody shame! I travelled along the M4 from bristol for this allnighter throughout the eighties and ady was even kind enough to let me dj there back in 1989 which to this day still gives me a buzz to which i'm eternally grateful and makes me feel in a small way that i have a part in it's history.I can only hope that englands greatest nighter(never went to wigan) gets the recognition it rightly deserves and hope that someone with more money than i can dream of can keep this legendary venue on the map!

heartbreaking news, full stop!

[Johnmcc]

stands to reason its 300.....because thats how many tickets adey issues for the anniversary, regardless of wether that many turn-up....NOT THAT THEY DONT!!

Q.E.D.

[Guest CapitolSC]

Just do what ever you can to keep the 100 club going if you feel the same way I as do, because by the looks of things it will be closed by the end of the year otherwise

[Guest karen b]

If walls could talk......................................................

Well the 100 club do.......all the heritage is there to see hanging on every wall, mega photographs of so many people who have walked down those stairs and been part of its history , one of my favourites is of Richard Burton jamming on the trumpet.

No photos on the wall but Princess Anne popped down there the see Humphrey Littleton not that many years ago.

Its not only those who have played there but those who have frequented to listen and dance who have made this venue Iconic. Both my parents were keen jazz fans and did go to the club, late 50's and 60's.

A few years ago when BBC 4 were doing a Jazz Britannia season I was astounded when various stills of Jazz musicians were

shown, lots at the 100 club, my mother knew most of the musicians, and went on to give the low down of what went on in those heady days!!!, it was bizzarre.....it was a private world of underground music for the special few! sounded far too familiar for my liking.lol

Anyway, my mother has lived in Cornwall since the 70's but is still into live Jazz as are most of her friends, and I know that a few

of her friends still try to make the pilgrimage up to the club to re live and make new memories for the odd Saturday night,

these are people in their upper 70's and still at it..........at the 100 club.

The 100 club is an intimate little club which has given me so much pleasure over the 31 years, descending the stairs is

still as exciting as the first visit, and with every step the music getting louder, the heat pushing its way up, and the emotion of

whats gone before mixed with anticipation of what is to come, priceless.

Karen x

Edited October 3, 2010 by karen b

[Anais nin Carms]

If walls could talk......................................................

Well the 100 club do.......all the heritage is there to see hanging on every wall, mega photographs of so many people who have walked down those stairs and been part of its history , one of my favourites is of Richard Burton jamming on the trumpet.

No photos on the wall but Princess Anne popped down there the see Humphrey Littleton not that many years ago.

Its not only those who have played there but those who have frequented to listen and dance who have made this venue Iconic. Both my parents were keen jazz fans and did go to the club, late 50's and 60's.

A few years ago when BBC 4 were doing a Jazz Britannia season I was astounded when various stills of Jazz musicians were

shown, lots at the 100 club, my mother knew most of the musicians, and went on to give the low down of what went on in those heady days!!!, it was bizzarre.....it was a private world of underground music for the special few! sounded far too familiar for my liking.lol

Anyway, my mother has lived in Cornwall since the 70's but is still into live Jazz as are most of her friends, and I know that a few

of her friends still try to make the pilgrimage up to the club to re live and make new memories for the odd Saturday night,

these are people not in their upper 70's and still at it..........at the 100 club.

The 100 club is an intimate little club which has given me so much pleasure over the 31 years, descending the stairs is

still as exciting as the first visit, and with every step the music getting louder, the heat pushing its way up, and the emotion of

whats gone before mixed with anticipation of what is to come, priceless.

Karen x

That is so lovely Karen ... I do hope someone thinks to write a book and get all these great memories down I would buy it .

Carms

x