Unwinding your nights at the Whisky A Go-Go

Anastasia Loza

Since its first opening in January 1964, the Whisky A Go-Go has undergone many changes, but still remains a crowd hot spot on the Sunset Strip.

For a time, the Whisky only played recordings with no live band, but this changed as live bands became the main music played throughout the night.

Although The Doors are known for immortalizing the Whisky during their run as house band, other bands such as The Who, The Ramones and Nirvana also played at the Whisky.

Today, the nightclub has changed again and become known for shows with unknown bands looking for their big break or promotional gig nights.

Even on a Wednesday night, the Whisky roars with energy.

When I arrived at 8 p.m., it was already pretty packed, with people standing downstairs cheering on the band or drinking around the bar located on the other side of the room.

Mothers and fathers and assorted family and friends of band members were gathered around in clumps, taking pictures and talking rapidly about the night.

You could just feel their anticipation to see their son or brother, cousin or best friend up on that stage.

Every band that played that night was different from the one before it, from loud and screaming to relaxed and pop-sounding.

One band even played their own cover of Marcy Playground’s song, “Sex and Candy.”

The lighting effects, combined with a fog machine that was set off during the climax of each song and a rotating disco ball, all came together to create an exciting view of the band on stage.

The Whisky also features a balcony level where, even on a Wednesday night, it was hard to find an empty table.

Here you can sit and enjoy a drink while you eat from an affordably-priced menu featuring food that tastes as good as it smells.

If you can find a seat next to the balcony you will be sitting in one of the best spots in the club, as it gives you a great view of the crowd below and the band on stage.

From up there you can see again that there is no age limit or requirement for the Whisky and certainly no dress code.

However, even up on the second level it’s very hard to hold any conversation without yelling into the other person’s ear.

I highly suggest going into the bathroom when you need to make a phone call.

With food, live music and plenty of people to talk to, the atmosphere is very stimulating.

Come early to get parking on Sunset Boulevard, unless you don’t mind paying $10 for parking behind the Whisky.

Don’t try to bring in water or snacks; the Whisky serves food and the bouncers will have no problems throwing it away.

GRADE: A

The Whisky A Go-Go is located at 8901 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, Calif., 90069 and is open daily from 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. There is no age limit to get in and no drink minimum. Cover charge is $12. For more information visit www.whiskyagogo.com, or call (310) 652-4202.