The Hollywood Palladium was built in 1940 by the builder and developer Gordon Kaufmann. The venue was initially designed as a ballroom, with a grand staircase, a balcony, and a massive dance floor that could accommodate up to 4,000 people. The venue was inaugurated on October 31, 1940, with a grand opening that featured performances by Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra and Frank Sinatra.
Over the years, the Hollywood Palladium has hosted numerous iconic events, from big band performances to punk rock shows, from disco nights to heavy metal concerts. The venue has seen some of the biggest names in music perform on its stage, including the likes of The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Madonna, Prince, Nirvana, and many others.
One of the most notable events in the history of the Hollywood Palladium was the 1956 Elvis Presley concert, which took place on October 28 of that year. The concert was part of Presley’s first national tour and attracted a record-breaking audience of 8,000 people. The show was so successful that Presley was invited back to perform at the venue a few months later.
Another significant event that took place at the Hollywood Palladium was the 1965 Grammy Awards. This was the first time that the Grammys were held outside of New York City, and it was also the first time that the awards ceremony was broadcast on national television. The evening featured performances by some of the biggest names in music at the time, including The Supremes, Johnny Rivers, and Petula Clark.
The Hollywood Palladium has undergone several renovations over the years, each aimed at improving its facilities and keeping the venue relevant for contemporary audiences. In 2008, the venue underwent a massive $20 million renovation that included improvements to the sound system, lighting, and stage equipment. The renovation also added a brand-new VIP area and a state-of-the-art recording studio.
Today, the Hollywood Palladium continues to be one of the most popular music venues in Los Angeles, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The venue hosts a diverse range of musical genres, from hip-hop and electronic to metal and rock. The venue also hosts other events, such as comedy shows and private parties.
In conclusion, the Hollywood Palladium is a legendary music venue that has played a significant role in shaping the history of entertainment in Los Angeles. This iconic venue has seen some of the biggest names in music perform on its stage and has hosted some of the most memorable events in the history of music. With its rich history and state-of-the-art facilities, the Hollywood Palladium is sure to remain a staple of the music scene in Los Angeles for many years to come.