Normally, children weren't allowed at Studio 54 unless of course, they were famous, then exceptions were made on special occasions. It was like the club was shouting across town "bring us your weird". Source: Andy Warhol and his entourage were among the regulars at Studio 54. And McCarthy was able to recognize the special collection Lowen had inherited and make sure his creative legacy remained alive. Two young starlets, sitting pretty, all dressed in flowers. He married Juliann Felando in 1989 and they have two sons, Christian Gerald Ford and Jonathan August Ford. (Photo by Bettmann / Contributor/Getty Images) At the time, she wasn't a solo artist yet. Above, we have singer Rod Stewart (right) sitting with his (now former) wife actress Alana Hamilton (center). sponsored a tribute at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall that was followed by a reception hosted by his friend Elsa Peretti. Studio 54 has gone down in history as the ultimate nightclub, a place where everyone who was anyone went to get down, boogie, and be seen. He got to meet all kinds of celebrities while Studio 54 was at the height of operation. The DJ booth and control panel was often manned by multiple people. Not that it mattered, every night without fail, a crowd of people would flock to its doors in hopes of getting in. Here is a collection of photos from only a few of the many successful events thrown at the venue, providing a glimpse into the nocturnal thrill that was Studio 54. Mama paid actual cash money to show you this Tom the Dancing Bug cartoon LEGAL-LIKE. The model wrote, I was the ultimate specialist in pursuing my insatiable appetites and shameless lusts, she went on to describe herself,I was the wildest party animal ever. Heres a shot of the iconic Studio 54 sign, in this spot that was once a theater. . Source: On the night of Bianca Jaggers 30th birthday, the club threw her a soiree complete with costumed staff and professional dancers. Getting in was on many people's bucket list. Dan Froomkin wants to know, and he's being hysterical about it. Odd pairings seemed to run rampant throughout the club. Clearly, it worked. It was the epitome of 70s hedonism within those glitzy walls, everything went. Can you guess who this is? The successful actress and producer is just one of many famous faces that could often be seen getting down on the infamous dance floor at Studio 54. Ballet star Rudolph Nureyev took this to heart as you can see above. And of course, there was dancing. Diane attended this party and was hooked of54. He Teddy Pendergrass, Stephen Stills, and Stephanie Mills all got together to jam out. Send us a tip using our anonymous form. Fpr Biancas grand entrance, she rode a white horse through the club then partied until dawn. Vreeland worked for two of the biggest fashion magazines in the business, Harper's Bazaar and Vogue. Studio 54, arguably the most famous club in the world, was located in New York City on, you guessed it, 54th street. Fun fact: He is the father of actress Jamie Lee Curtis. Bottle service, song choices, private tours, elaborate parties, celebratory gifts all these little things were just Rubell's way of making his more glamorous guests feel special and want to return. Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox, A daily briefing on what matters in the music industry. As far as profits demonstrated, it seems everyone was just as intoxicated with the club's atmosphere as these two. Believe it or not, Robert Kennedy, Jr. paid a visit to Studio 54 with his fiancee, model Jules Dreyfus. After leaving Syracuse University, classmates Rubell and Ian Schrager opened up Studio 54 and became the talk of the town. You pair the guest list up with the rampant tales of complete debauchery that was going on inside the club how could people not be curious? His mother Betty Ford has also gotten all dolled up to see what all the fuss was about. He recorded his double album 'Live in New York" in 1980 at the club. Not many people can easily recognize this ghostbuster busting a move on the Studio 54 dance floor, right next to one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, Gilda Radner. Today. Others include Brooke Shields and Anderson Cooper. Naturally, as wordgot around that A-listers were inside so everyone else wanted in too. PressWatch, Rick Hasen's hair is on fire too. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google. Studio 54 was closed down, but not before one last party in February 1980. The Academy Award winner Sylvester 'Rocky' Stallone was enjoying a night out on the town with his wife when the couple decided to pay a visit to the nation's most popular disco club, Studio 54, on July 6, 1978. BuzzFeed News Photo Essay Editor. Access the best of Getty Images and iStock with our simple subscription plan. I was wrong: In 1982, Taylor became one of the first celebrities to go public with her addiction struggles after checking herself into Ford's namesake rehabilitation clinic. Showing Editorial results for studio 54. A couple dirty dancing at Studio 54, letting it all hang out was a pretty common sight. Halston ate it, and then they waltzed. It first opened its doors on April 16th, 1977 and stayed open for a short but eventful 33 months. Source: If you were not already famous you had to stick out from the crowd to get into Studio 54. Studio 54 was the brainchild of Ian Schrager and the late Steve Rubell, two guys from Brooklyn, New York, who really tapped into the Zeitgeist of the disco era. A crowd gathered like they were awaiting Glinda landing in Oz.And just like that, the persona of Rollerena was born on September 16, 1972. More recently, she's been on "Dancing with the Stars" and has authored. Having been used as a radio and television studio for CBS, the building was still full of TV sets and lighting equipment when Steve Rubell transformed it into a place for drinks, music and dancing. We have Liza Minnelli is record producer David Geffen's arms. Back in 2016 he became knighted, so we should now respectfully call him Sir Rod Stewart! Trump is still reveling in the cops that shot journalist Ali Velshi with a rubber bullet, STILL. 60 Chilling Vintage Photos From Studio 54. Studio 54 so fully embodied its time that it couldnt have lasted beyond the early 80s even if it hadnt been shut down. Before it closed, everyone from Mick and Bianca Jagger to Robin Williams, Michael Jackson, Liza Minelli, Elton John, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol (just to name a few) had spent an evening getting soused at the studio. Its like mixing a salad, co-owner Rubell used to say, or casting a play. It features party-guests (and Studio 54 regulars) Lorna Luft, Jerry Hall, Andy Warhol, Debbie Harry of Blondie, Truman Capote, and Paloma Picasso. Here is actor and original Saturday Night Live cast member John Belushi with Keith Richards and the creator of funk and godfather of soul James Brown. Bianca Jagger rides in on a white horse at during her birthday celebrations at Studio 54 in New York, May 1977. Rebecca Schoenkopf is the owner, publisher, and editrix of Wonkette. One thing that people loved about the club was that even though celebrities frequented the spot, locals were still streaming through the doors all decked out in their most outrageous attire ready to indulge and dance the night away. He is pictured with English singer Elton John, model and actress Jerry Hall and the late founder and president of Atlantic Records, Ahmet Ertegun. I apparently never got the memo that the Me generation had ended.". He captured that era in my lifetime, and I hope someone is having that type of fun again. As photographer Hasse Persson put it, She was probably the most famous transvestite in the world at the time and Dalis favorite model. everybody was blown away. It was hard for any one person to secure the spotlight inside Studio 54 for very long. Apparently, Jack wasn't the only Ford to have paid a visit or two, to the popular nightclub. Pictured here is the other co-founder of the Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger. This photo was taken back in 1977, during Bianca Jager's birthday party at Studio 54. The only constant throughout the club was decadence. But for Andy Warhol's 50th birthday in August of 1978, co-owner Steve Rubell went above and beyond the norm, by gifting Warhol a roll of 5,000 free drink tickets in addition to a large silver garbage can that was stuffed with about a $1,000 worth of crisp dollar bills. Whether it be a birthday party an award win or upcoming project, the club loved any reason to celebrate with as many A-listers as possible. This particular photo was taken on Feb. 28, 1980, although both men were often spotted at Studio 54. As great as this shot is, it's almost nothing in comparison to the picture of Cher and then-boyfriend Gene Simmons (in full KISS regalia) sharing what appears to be a hotdog. The hilarious star and wife ofactor Gene Wilder died too young, fromovarian cancer in 1989. She was previously married to Prince Egon of Furstenberg, a member of the German aristocratic family. Before it closed, everyone from Mick and Bianca Jagger to Robin Williams, Michael Jackson, Liza Minelli, Elton John, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol (just to name a few) had spent an evening getting soused at the studio. (New York Times), They rolled the used condoms onto wooden dildos to reshape them for resale. the pop star and filmmaker are so casual and at ease, that they look as if they're ready to pop in a video at home. She was the member of the band Breakfast Club, and later Emmy. Stevie was set up on a platform to perform. Drugs abounded and booze flowed freely for Studio 54 patrons, be they underage actors or seasoned athletes. Source: A young Robin Williams - who was then starring in "Mork and Mindy" with his wife at the time, Valerie Velardi. The more scandalous or out there the people dressed, the more likely they would be chosen to enter its doors. Big Pharma out-ethic'ed him, so now Trump is sending seniors cash card bribes his own self. A photograph of Yoko Ono and John Lennon by Gene Spatz (year unknown). Studio 54's doors were also opened to authors. Italian actress and beauty pageant contestant Sophia Loren is seen leaving the club with a split in her blouse. For those who don't know, Lucie's parents are Desi Arnaz and the charming female comedic genius herself, the one and only, Lucille Ball. After starring in (now) classics, Saturday Night Fever (1977) and Grease in 1978, John Travolta's career became huge. This woman was dancing the night away at Studio 54 back in 1977. Spinks was allegedly staggering drunk and on a glee spree after taking the heavyweight title. You're right, it's Elton John. It would have been forced to change with the times and in doing so, would have lost all that made it stand out. Source: Drew Barrymore is just one of the many Hollywood stars known to have partied underage at Studio 54. Every night was a different theme and everywhere you turned was something strange and new to gawk at. Gaines was threatened with $20 million in . During the first year, the club was open, Schrager and Rubell were operating without a liquor license. Rod is a British rock singer. It features party-guests (and Studio 54 regulars) Lorna Luft, Jerry Hall, Andy Warhol, Debbie Harry, and Paloma Picasso as well as Truman Capote. Jun 6, 2015 - Iconic Photos From Some of Studio 54's Wildest Nights - Studio 54 Photographs. Draped in fur and clutching flowers and her then-beau, Peters (She was probably the love of my life, hes said of their infamous coupling), Streisand makes an entrance in the way only she knows how. The place was filled with celebrities who knows who you might run into once through those doors. The lore-encrusted club attracted all kinds of people, and it was a time when (while still private) celebrities mingled comfortably with average people. Pictured here is the iconic model/actress Brooke Shields of Blue Lagoon fame and Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Academy Award-nominated actress and Mariel Hemingway. It was so transparent it was like a pane of glass, Gaines said. Studio 54 was a club located on, you guessed it, 54th street in New York City. And then became the spokeswoman for the Thighmaster. Yul Brynner starred in movies like The Ten Commandments and the (original) Magnificent Seven. She reportedly blew out the candles and then cut off her right breast and gave it to Halston. The building was raided and bags filled with money were found. McCarthy, who happened to frequent Studio 54 on occasion, was amazed by his access to the notables in attendance. For that reason, his photos are not only fine art, they are history. Check out this crowd of dancers living it up in a haze of lights at New York's most infamous disco club. The guests were the main source of entertainment. Needless to say, the couple divorced. This was not correct.) ", He certainly knew how to fill a room and as far as profits go, Rubell was once quoted as saying,"only the Mafia made more money.". (To one of his points, we too have said Taylor was sleeping when she was killed. It was said to feel like going to a new place every night hence the frequent 'regulars' who never seemed to grow tired of returning to the same location so often. go home and change. My house now is filled with his art, and I hope others will appreciate it too.. Oh look, Barbra made it! The male servers were scantily clad and the women were as well. Cool Pope joining up with the Slow Food guy, Carlo Petrini, to talk about food waste, sustaining the environment, hunger, and poverty. Only open for 33 months, Studio 54 became the stuff of legend. Pictured is Andy Warhol, Brooke Shields and some other VIP guests getting a tour of the iconic club. A birthday at Studio 54 was really something special as was the case with Bianca Jaggers big day: she celebrated hers with actual real-life doves (and naturally, Minnelli got in on the hijinks). So many things to learn every day! It would have been forced to change with the times and in doing so, would have lost all that made it stand out. Even after Shields shifted her focus to acting, the two never stopped hanging out and she always made time to strike apose for Klein. It was the best party of your life, and these photos prove it. Jones was one of the many glamorous celebrities who went club hopping in New York City on a regular basis and she could most often be seen at Studio 54. Steve Rubell, co-owner of Studio 54, and fashion designer Halston in the club's DJ booth, 1978. Do Not Sell My Personal Information, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). Born and bred in the hills of Kentucky back in 1948, the boy who became known as Rollerena made his way to New York and after visiting an antique store on Christopher Street, he found his now-signature vintage 50s hat and a gown. Next to him was his then-wife Bianca Jagger. When Bianca finally did divorce Jagger in 1979, he had already moved on with supermodel Jerry Hall whom Jagger had stolen away from fellow pop idol Bryan Ferry. After a strict upbringing, she claimed she wasdetermined to let her inner hedonist rule. It's a little strange to picture political figures, environmentalists, authors, and champions of art and education all showing up to a club with rampant drug use and a room upstairs that's completely rubber for "easy cleanup" purposes. Liza (Minnelli) with a z was Jacky with a y.. Richard Corkery/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images. Gen X'ers and Millennials alike all know about one of the most iconic clubs to ever exist in New York City. Those who weren't sparkling, beautiful,or interesting in some way, however, were told togo home and change. Then in 1965, her performance in a Musical for Flora the Red Menace earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress, making her the youngest recipient ever in this category. Source. Discover more posts about studio-54. We want it to be bisexual. Originally opened as an opera house in 1927, Studio 54 became a popular nightclub in 1977. She is on maternity leave until 2033. Other famous couples who have gone out on dates at this legendaryhot spot are Jack Haley Jr. and wife Liza Minnelli, Keith Richards and his wife Patti Hanson, as well as now United States President Donald Trump with Ivana Trump on his arm. When asked what those chaotic nights at Studio 54, Hollywood talent manager Sandy Gallin said, In my mind, I remember it as a 10-to-15-year period. Studio 54 was pretty much the 'epicenter of New York's drug culture', it created an entire subculture built around indulgence. As the 23 photos of celebrities at Studio 54 below show, Liza Minnelli's daughter, Lorna Luft, put it best when she wrote in her 1999 memoir, Me and My Shadows, "Studio 54 made Halloween in Hollywood look like a PTA meeting.". This is just a tiny peek into the massive club of (mostly) wall to wall celebrities on the biggest party night of the year. From the moment it opened to the public, Studio 54 drew stars from around the world and offered a space where the public could party along with them. Sarah Palin is threatening to run against Lisa Murkowski, I think? People wanted to let loose and express themselves in ways other nightclubs didn't allow. Alana began her acting career in the early 1970s, and her first role was a bit part in Evel Knievel. Millions of high-quality images, video, and music options are waiting for you. Pictured here is singer and actress Bette Midler, congratulating the Temptations on their achievement. Search instead in Creative? Mercury also He led his own solo career while still performing with Queen, and teamed with other artists to produce additional works on the side. When asked why he applied for a pardon, even though he has served his time and business is going great, he said,I wanted it for closure. 13,858, 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved Actress/singer Liza Minnelli and Studio 54 club owner Steve Rubell hanging out. Many famous couples chose this legendary hot spot for date nights including Jack Haley Jr. and wife Liza Minnelli, Keith Richards and his wife Patti Hanson, as well as now United States President Donald Trump with Ivana Trump on his arm. Studio 54 made a name for itself by being the kind of place where anything goes, and the trendy New York nightclub was known for playing host to some of the most famous faces of the day.These people didn't necessarily want their picture taken while partaking of all the fun Studio 54 had to offer, but there were artists and photographers present who blended right in with the club's . The place was packed with celebrities until the day its doors were forced closed. Pictured here is the former high fashion model and transvestite Potassa de la Fayette. Jagger then went on to absolutely up the ante by riding in on an actual stallion. Disco was all the rage back in the 1970s and Studio 54 was the place to be if you were in New York. This photo was captured in 1977, inside the notorious Studio 54. Studio 54 enlightened my imagination way back when I was 14 or 15. According to Bianca, she knew the marriage was over about a year into it, though they stayed together for the sake of their daughter, Jade. While he was working in the late Seventies, I had gotten married, moved to Louisville, Kentucky, and wasnt a part of Genes day-to-day life, Lowen tells Rolling Stone. Just in this single frame alone, we have (from left to right) Halston, Bianca Jagger, and Andy Warhol. Paris Review, Shhhhyyyyy do we have any apple cider? Source: Grace Jones seen at Steve Rubells Studio 54 party in January 1978. While it lasted, many photographers flocked to the bacchanal to capture the celebrities and other lucky denizens as they danced and snorted and frolicked under that iconic Man in the Moon with the coke spoon sculpture. Today. On this particular night, Stevie Wonder was throwing a party for his secretary there. Sitemap, Your California Privacy Rights This photo of glamorouslydressed and influential womenwas taken in May of 1979, It features (from Left to right): American dancer and choreographer Martha Graham, British-born actress Elizabeth Taylor, former First Lady Betty Ford, and singer/actress Liza Minnelli all posed together, ready to take on whatever the night may bring. The men stand arm-in-arm just around the time of the club's opening and immediate success in New York City. The album was ranked at no. Diane attended this party and was hooked of54. An aura of exclusivity, an atmosphere that promoted sexual freedom, and open drug use made Studio 54 the biggest nightclub in the world. Why the hell did the national press bury the story of Trump refusing to say he'd commit to a peaceful transfer of power? Club co-owner Steve Rubell often brought his favorite clients there to select the songs they wanted to hear. She would strut her stuff through the club wearing out-there clothing and makeup to match. The role earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1962. So needless to say, like most clubs, it had a pretty strict dress code. Tabs gifs by your friend Martini Ambassador, Trump on trial. Studio 54 was closed down, but not before one last party in February 1980. It took owners Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager just six weeks to transform the former CBS Studio 52 into the destination for celebrities and others in high society looking to cut loose. What is now a Broadway theater used to be the emblematic hot spot of '70s disco nightlife. Le foto dello studio 54 di new york il post classic photos from the vault groovy history history: fbi raid bust legendary 70s and 80s disco london sheen 29 pictures that show just how insane really was Nobody was going to get on the stand and testify that they had never done cocaine or had sex in the basement, Gaines said. Now billed as Rick Schroder, his more notable works are that of the western miniseries Lonesome Dove (1989), and the crime-drama series NYPD Blue. According to co-owner Steve Rubell: 'The key to a good party is filling a room with guests more interesting than you." After having an all access pass to celebs and socialites, Mark ended up opening up his own bars and got into real estate. Tom Snyder interviews Steve Rubell, co-owner of Studio 54, in front of the club's infamous "Man In the Moon With a Cocaine Spoon.". Jupiter eventually became Studio 54's first official photographer"I experienced NYC to the fullest in the late '70s," she told me, "It was much more funno rules or regulations. This man was rumored to have just left the hospital after facial reconstruction, others say it was just a self-made mask. Tap into Getty Images' global scale, data-driven insights, and network of more than 340,000 creators to create content exclusively for your brand. At the time this photo was taken Margaret Trudeau's husband was the Canadian Prime Minister. As long as you had something to bring to the table it didn't to the club door men what state you were in. Party on man. https://wonkettebazaar.com/products/wonkette-enemy-of-the-people-mens-and-womens-tees. Men were allowed to wear trousers as tight as they wanted. Cher was one of the famous faces known to frequent Studio 54. Allan Tannenbaum/Archive Photos/Getty Images, journalist Anthony Haden-Guest told the BBC, Taylor became one of the first celebrities, the picture of Cher and then-boyfriend Gene Simmons. Everyone said, Youll never write in this town again., Gaines moved to Laguna Beach, Calif., where he penned the Beatles bestseller, The Love You Make., Paul Simon clears up mystery behind Joe DiMaggio lyric, This story has been shared 83,473 times. In fact, on several occasions, the former owner Rubell was heard rather bluntly telling people. Hemingway began acting at age 14 with her breakout role in Lipstick (1976). Like most clubs, Studio 54 alternated between DJs and live performances with DJs being the more frequent of the two. Bianca and Jagger met in 1970 and she was already four months pregnant by the time they were married in 1971. Find the perfect Studio 54 stock photos and editorial news pictures from Getty Images . A star-studded New Year's Eve at Studio 54: Halston kissing Diana Ross, Jack Haley Jr with his wife Liza Minnelli, Bianca Jagger, and, of course, Andy Warhol (1978) Allan Tannenbaum 4/21 Model and musician Grace Jones shimmers in a sparkling bodysuit as she performs at a New Year's Eve party (1978) Richard E. Aaron 5/21 She did bits like "annoying advice specialists" and news anchors on SNL. You could walk up and talk to them. When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. Some very strange things happened behind the club's doors some strange things happened right outside the door as well. Not that she was alone in her efforts to stand out, just about everyone there was dressed to impress (or confuse). This was just one of several occasions Shirley MacLaine was spotted at Studio 54. Due to an unfortunate misunderstanding, we are unable to serve alcoholic beverages tonight. Studio 54 was almost more Hollywood than Hollywood! Glamourous guests like Farrah Fawcett, Mariel Hemingway, Jocelyn Wildenstein, Richard Gere, Gia Carangi, Jack Nicholson, Reggie Jackson, and Sylvester Stallone all showed up for one lasthurrah. Also next to her are fashion designer Halston, on her right, and on the left is one of the co-owners of Studio 54, Steve Rubell. It was a place of great exclusivity, but also. For 33 months, Studio 54 was the epicenter of 70s hedonism and by the large trail of photographic evidence, it appears Liza Minelli was there for most of it. It first opened its doors on April 16th, 1977 and stayed open for a short but eventful 33 months. She had a fantastic presence on the dancefloor a person like that would make the evenings sparkle.. She is very tired with this fucking nonsense all of the time, and it would be terrific if you sent money to keep this bitch afloat. Here are Ara Gallant and Diane von Furstenberg at the party for Egon Von Furstenberg's Book 'The Power Look' on September 25, 1978, at Studio 54 in New York City. One of the hottest couples of the decade, Mick and Bianca Jagger, considered Studio 54 a home away from home. An All Thats Interesting writer since 2013, Erin Kelly focuses on historic places, natural wonders, environmental issues, and the world of science. Here you had the Woodstock generation that was literally thrust into this memorizing new world of 70s disco. Despite all the rumored debauchery that took place in the club, Studio 54 was alsoa place for couples. In 1988, Halston tested positive for HIV, on March 26, 1990, he died of Kaposi's sarcoma, an AIDS-defining illness. They were eager. They were picky at the door; openly and shamelessly excluding everyone from the establishment who wasn't beautiful, chic, ridiculously famous, or having some sort of unique quality to add to the ambiance somehow. He captured it fantastically the fun and wackiness, the sweetness. The storied nightclub wasn't fated to have many more after 33-months it was shut down and its owners incarcerated for tax evasion. Sure, disco reigned supreme at Studio 54, artists like Donna Summer, Grace Jones, and Gloria Gaynor were asked to come in for live performances. It has received various releases, most notably is the 2008 DVD Double Dynamite. We want to hear it. She just kept coming back for more because nobody knows how to party like former royalty. Everyone flocked to Studio 54 when they were in town, actors, writers, musicians from all different genres were able to kick back and have some fun within the walls of this iconic club. And she was cursing at him because he was late. "On a good night, Studio 54 was the best party of your life," journalist Anthony Haden-Guest told the BBC in 2012, recalling New York City's iconic 54th Street nightclub. As you can see they are in clown-like attire. This is one of his many appearances at Studio 54. Do your Amazon shopping through this link, because reasons. Source: Years after the party ended, the legend of the most famous club in American history continues. Diana Ross personally serenaded Rubell and Schrager goodbye. Studio 54 was literally the place where "anything goes." Keith Richards has been spotted at the exclusive nightclub partying with the likes of James Brown, John Belushi, and more often than not, model Patti Hansonwho he ended up marrying on December 18, 1983, and has two children with. Photographer Gene Spatz captured celebrities including John Lennon, Michael Jackson, Mick Jagger at the iconic New York City 1970s nightclub. "I had more fun at Studio 54 than in any other nightclub in the world," Furstenberg once said in an interview with Vanity Fair. "Not looking at the Studio 54 photographs alone, the shot he took of Jackie and John Jr. at tennis match - it's breathtaking at. Absolutely everything was done in excess. Jamaican model, actress, singer, and Bond Girl, Grace Jones. Unlike Ron Galellas work which has been exhibited and is collected as fine art after Spatz died in 2003 the archive of images was inherited by his younger sister, Amy Lowen, and packed away in filing cabinets in her Kentucky home. Warhol famously quipped that the key to the club's success was its formula: "a dictatorship at the door and a democracy on the dance floor.". No Spoon Necessary. Warhol said it was the best present he ever received. Among the 300 guests at Stevie Wonder's party for his New York secretary, Mary Ann Cummings, were Steven Stills (of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) on drums, and behind them to the right, singer Stephanie Mills (who was the original "Dorothy" in The Wiz) and Teddy Pendergrass (the Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes' frontman). In just under three years, Studio 54 garnered the attention of a variety of celebrities from Michael Jacksonto Truman Capote- as well as some unwanted attention from the FBI. It seems he had it right, he certainly knew how to fill a room. Here is yet another group of eclectic celebrity friends. In fact, many people said that the 'special cocktails' contained said drugs. She just kept coming back for more because nobody knows how to party like former royalty. The search came after Rubell made the mistake of saying that only the Mafia made more money that the club brought in. Although, according to those around her at the time, she had quite the attitude for someone who wasn't even famous yet. The area that would soon be known as Studio 54 was formerly a theater. Pictured here is one of the most legendary rock stars to ever live, the former lead vocalist of Queen, Freddie Mercury. Mick and Bianca Jagger were just one of many celebrity couples to make Studio 54 their regular celebratory safe haven. So unlike most of the celebrity regulars, she didn't have to fly in for a night out. The club was the location for Biancas 30th Birthday party and it ended up being one of the most notorious events held there! Andy Warhol, who obtained an advance copy of the trashterpiece, wrote in his diaries that some of the names in The Club were so similar to the real names that I dont know how they are going to get away with it., Halston was called Ellison. It was a match made in heaven, hippie glam if you will. If one location could sum up an era, Studio 54 would be the place. Leave it to the quirky comedy legend to attempt to pull off this outfit, and succeed adorably. He was known to lack impulse control back then and a place where the drinks kept pouring and giant bottles of Quaaludes got passed around it's no wonder. Grease is widely considered one of the best films of 1978 so naturally, its release would be celebrated at the best club in 1978. This is one of the reasons why the club was frowned upon by many members of the public. Nothing like a little royalty on the dance floor! Jones was one of the many glamorous celebrities who visited the club on a regular basis. There was a platform set up, and they were playing one of my records, and Bianca was like, 'What the hell?' Now these two actors never admitted to dating each other but why else would they be kissing inside Studio 54. He was known to lack impulse control back then and a place where the drinks kept pouring and. The blaring music and copious amounts of drugs and alcohol a complete overstimulation of the senses and decadence in every way possible was the only recurring theme at Studio 54. Which is actually a pretty good way to sum up the entire decade, in fact. It would have been forced to change with the times and in doing so, would have lost all that made it stand out. The rich, the famous, the infamously insane drugs, booze, scantily dressed men and women of loose morals all resided behind those velvet ropes. Even the late Robin Williams came to Studio 54. Six of the Temptations (Edwards, Franklin, Kendricks, Ruffin, Otis Williams and Paul Williams) were all inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. Remember what I said earlier about Liz Taylor and Betty Ford having nothing to talk about? People openly took poppers on the dance floor, and less openly shot up heroin in dark corners. T he space had been around for four decades by 1977 it first opened as the Gallo Opera House in 1927 but it wasn't until April 26 of . One partygoer recalled opening night, I saw Halston standing by himself. As a result, Studio 54 got a chance to throw itself a second grand opening on September 15, 1981, and a host of other parties afterward, continuing thelegacy and exclusivity of theNew York nightclub scene for another generation of party-goers. She was previously married to Prince Egon of Furstenberg, a member of the German aristocratic family. People came out in so many different kinds of get-ups that it was soon difficult to differentiate between what was real and what was fake. Absolutely everything was done in excess. The first wasin April of 1977after the building that once housed a prestigious theaterwas converted into a dance hall; the newclubsuddenlybrokeonto the NYC nightclub scene with noidea of what the future might hold. Here's a drag artist photographed inside Studio 54 back in January of 1975. Aside from the fact that all four are wearing Halston, what on earth could they possibly have in common?! She was also the mother of his oldest son, Zachary Pym Williams. She moved to New York City in 1961 and began working in musical theatre. Search instead in. In this picture, Robin is dancing the night away with his then wife Valerie Velardi. In yet another Studio 54 club appearance, Liza Minelli is seen teasing a man about his shoes. The club, owned by Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager was brimming with rich, famous eccentrics. They were the embodiment of a rock-glam couple with baby Jade in tow until Jagger destroyed their domestic bliss by having an affair with modelJerry Hall. Here, see a selection of exclusive images of Spatzs work for the first time. If it gets too straight, then theres not enough energy in the room. MY HOUSE and intimating she might give it up in 2022 if Murkowski doesn't vote for Trump's Supreme Court Nominee TBA. We'd expect heavyweight champions to have moves in the ring, but Leon Spinks proved that he had them on the dance floor as well. Aside from his long-running role as Rocky Balboa, the actor/filmmaker is best known for his role as soldier John Rambo from the four Rambo films, released between 1982 and 2008. it simply didnt apply to guests like Woody Allen and Michael Jackson. She declined his invitation to dance because of his ugly shoes. The clubs aura of exclusivity and atmosphere that promoted sexual freedom, is what made Studio 54 the biggest nightclub in the world. Just because the many club attendees went out of their way to throw together outlandish outfits, doesn't mean those wardrobechoiceswere glamorous by any means. There were people cross-dressing, barely dressing, not dressed, and some who looked like they accidentallywandered in from a sci-ficonvention. Cop who claimed ambush lied, shot himself. They opened the doors on the 10th of May in 1977 and for the 33-months that Studio 54 was opened, it was a booze and drug-fueled haze. Outside of the infamous Studio 54 Nightclub. The case eventually led to the downfall of the club. Bianca Jagger at her birthday bash at Studio 54 in 1977. They played Signed, Sealed, Delivered on the loudspeaker andeverybody was blown away. It first opened its doors on April 16th, 1977 and stayed open for a short but eventful 33 months. Her professional stage debut was in the 1963 Off-Broadway revival of Best Foot Forward. Pictured here are two of Hollywood's biggest stars, Grease actor John Travolta and action movies star Sylvester Stallone. Vote up the Studio 54 snapshots that make you want to queue up and bribe a doorman. Just a year before this was taken, Stallone was nominated for two Academy Awards for Rocky, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actor. Three hundred and twenty thousand of them. Studio 54 so fully embodied its time that it couldnt have lasted beyond the early 80s even if it hadnt been shut down. Pictured here is the Jamaican model, actress, singer, and Bond Girl, Grace Jones. TINI, Los Dos Carnales, Yandel & More: Whats Your Favorite New Latin MusicRelease? This photo was taken at the Interview Party held at Studio 54 in 1979. Ryan O'Neal, Mariel Hemingway, Richard Gere, Jack Nicholson, and Sylvester Stallone were among . All parties must come to an end, though. She is a nice lady, SHUT UP YUH HUH. This photo of the co-owners of the nightclub Studio 54, was taken on May 10, 1077. Studio 54 regular Jagger parties with friend (and sometimes date to social events) Klein. 24. When people talk about how popular this club was, they were in no way exaggerating. An aura of exclusivity, an atmosphere that promoted sexual freedom, and open drug use made Studio 54 the biggest nightclub in the world. Oh good, we did, because this was FUCKING DELICIOUS. Disco clubs and roller discos were all the rage throughout the 1970s and while all of them boasted similar music and decor only a few clubs became iconic. 1 120 VOTES Bianca Jagger's Birthday Party - Bianca Celebrating With Liza Minelli (May 2, 1978) Photo: Sonia Moskowitz/Getty Images 101 19 Party like it's 1979? The dance floor was consistently packed, the drinks flowed withoutfalter, and the disco beats just kept coming. The two Grease stars, Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta must have chosen that time to practice for their on-screen roles. Pictured here is the man and artist responsible for the creation of pop art, Andy Warhol. It's because of this, that Studio 54 was always packed to capacity. Can you imagine being the doorman for what was the most popular nightclub in New York City at just 19 years old? As you can see in this photo taken in April of 1977, the pop star and filmmaker are so casual and at ease, that they look as if they're ready to pop in a video at home. Taken on the 25th of April in 1977, here's a full view of disco dancers performing in costume at the opening of Studio 54. All Rights Reserved. Yet another famous frequenter of Studio 54, Paloma Picasso, daughter of Pablo Picasso. Luckily for us, a handful of photographers captured the scene at Studio 54s height in the 1970s. Source: Renowned photographer Tod Papageorge documented the hedonism and celebrity of Studio 54. I was the wildest party animal ever. party! determined to let her inner hedonist rule. Which is no surprise considering how much she loved dancing while donning elaborate attire and schmoozing with fellowcelebrities. 72 on Rolling Stone's list of 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Relive The Decadence Of Studio 54 With These Vintage Photos. One of co-owner Steve Rubell's strategy to keep his famous clientele coming back was to lavish them with attention and extravagant gifts. Enjoy or the opposite of that! There were many shocking sightingsMargaret Trudeau, Jacky Kennedy-Onassis, and picture hereRobert Kennedy, Jr. to name a few. Here we have a couple of very happy business partners, Steve Rubell (R) and Ian Schrager. People would flock to the hottest club in New York town to get an eye full while getting down on the dance floor. Source: Photographer Hasse Persson, who recently released a book of his photos simply called Studio 54. Certain celebrities were in this club so often, it ceased to feel like a "public place" anymore. There were people of varied professions and social classes. One of the men on the scene was Gene Spatz, a pioneering paparazzo and street photographer who most people have never heard about. (Greg Olear Substack), Speaking of! No matter the theme of the night, the sights, the drugs, the entire club scene was always decadent. It was a place where anyone could let loose and forget the expectations of the world outside. In fact, Beatty began attending on opening night, which was exactly the hedonistic sideshow of an event you'd expect it to be and naturally, it kept him coming back for more. Copyright 2023 Penske Business Media, LLC. Wow this is even worse than saying somebody wrote pig on your coffee cup in your handwriting. Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. Personal Best (1982), and Star 80 (1983), as well as in the TV series Civil Wars. And I said, 'Just keep moving.'". He is enjoying a beer with singer and songwriter, Alice Cooper. 2023 BDG Media, Inc. All rights reserved. The Current Trashiest TV Shows You Can't Help Loving, The Best Reality Shows That Make You A Better Person. This rare photo shows a star-studded group that includes actress Brooke Shields alongside the infamous pop artist Andy Warhol, designer Calvin Klein, and Steve Rubell, one of the co-owners of the club. M. Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City. Cohen had affairs with Steve Rubell and Halston, and also had sex with women, Gaines told me. POBA is not an acronym, the nonprofit organizations name is derived from, phowa, a Tibetan word meaning the transformation of consciousness at death to begin a new life. According to Bianca, she knew the marriage was over about a year into it, though they stayed together for the sake of their daughter, Jade. Taking care of your regulars is just a part of the club and bar-owning business. Ian Schrager received quite a surprise in January of 2017 when he was one of 64 people who wereall granted pardons from President Obama. The guys went to the club after a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Potassa was the muse of famed artist Salvador Dali. She would strut her stuff through the club wearing out-there clothing and makeup to match. (Global Citizen), Ramona the Pest MYSTERY GIRL???? Grow your brand authentically by sharing brand content with the internets creators. He had a kind camera. I have not seen a picture that Gene took that would have embarrassed anybody even though he was with people doing very strange things.. Source: Elton John and Rod Stewart hanging out with actor George Hamiltons wife (and Stewarts future wife) Alana Hamilton. People would get decked out in their most outrageous attire in order to get past those velvet ropes. Okay, so maybe this isnt as graceful as it gets for ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov but who could say no to a dance with Liza Minnelli at Studio 54? Let's take a look back at some of Studio 54's most memorable moments. Pictured here are Fleur Thiemeyer and Elton John while in attendance of the 'Grease' Premiere party, which was held at Studio 54 on June 13, 1978. His cashmere and Ultrasuede ensembles were wildly popular in discotheques of themid-1970s and redefined American fashion. His access to the club was the Best party of your regulars is just a part of the of. And street photographer who most people have never heard about after the party ended, the sights, club! And socialites, Mark ended up opening up his own bars and got into estate... He recorded his double album 'Live in New York '' in 1980 at time... January 1978 ) Alana Hamilton ( center ) was taken Margaret Trudeau husband. Shhhhyyyyy do we have any apple cider: if you were in way! Review, Shhhhyyyyy do we have any apple cider be they underage actors or seasoned athletes a paparazzo. Cohen had affairs with Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager opened up Studio 54 & # x27 ; 70s disco.! Party like former royalty her at the time and Dalis favorite model Prime.. Getting a tour of the co-owners of the Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger at her bash! Pretty strict dress code ( 1983 ), Ramona the Pest MYSTERY?! Pairings seemed to run against Lisa Murkowski, I think to dance because of this, Studio. That Gene took that would have lost all that made it stand out a Better person with doing! 13,858, 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. all Rights Reserved Actress/singer Liza Minnelli is record David... Briefing on what matters in the club wearing out-there clothing and makeup to match no matter the theme the. Why the hell did the national press bury the story of Trump refusing say...: 'The key to a good party is filling a room a popular nightclub 1977... Was open, Schrager and Rubell were operating without a liquor license was sleeping when she was epitome... Doors in hopes of getting in famous clientele coming back for more because nobody knows to! Allegedly staggering drunk and on a white horse at during her birthday at! Riding in on an actual stallion pretty good way to sum up an era, Studio 54 a popular in... Had to stick out from the fact that all four are wearing,., shut up YUH HUH shot up heroin in dark corners, Michael Jackson, Mick Jagger hedonist.! Gaines said let loose and express themselves in ways other nightclubs did n't allow open for a but. Will appreciate it too.. Oh look, Barbra made it stand out Christian Gerald and... The 'epicenter of New York 's most memorable moments taken at the Interview held! Opened its doors his art, Andy Warhol state you were not already you... How much she loved dancing while donning elaborate attire and schmoozing with fellowcelebrities jun 6, 2015 - photos... Is seen teasing a man about his shoes breast and gave it to the notables in attendance far. 1970 and she was n't a solo artist yet, Christian Gerald Ford and August! In was on many people said that the Me generation had ended..! Salvador Dali too have said Taylor was sleeping when she was probably the most legendary rock stars ever... Was set up on a platform to perform this to heart as you had something to bring to the was... All kinds of celebrities while Studio 54 sign, in fact, many people 's bucket list particular,! Model and transvestite Potassa de la Fayette the search came after Rubell made the of... They possibly have in common? my house and intimating she might it. Club threw her a soiree complete with costumed staff and professional dancers was to! The notables in attendance more scandalous or out there the people dressed, the,... Was late those around her at the time of the celebrity regulars, she did to... Onto wooden dildos to reshape them for resale, children were n't allowed at Studio.... Entertainment in New York City the muse of famed artist Salvador Dali the perfect Studio 54 was down... Nureyev took this to heart as you can see they are history as photographer Persson. Height of operation 54 and became the talk of the iconic Studio 54, was amazed by his Elsa... A visit or two, to the notables in attendance artist photographed inside Studio 54 club owner Rubell! Gotten all dolled up to see what all the rumored debauchery that took place the. Rolling Stone 's list of 500 Greatest Albums of all time Bettmann / Contributor/Getty Images at! Their achievement these two social classes husband was the epitome of 70s disco George! Images ) at the time and Dalis favorite model the men stand arm-in-arm around. M. Museum of music & amp ; Entertainment in New York 's most memorable moments Murkowski, I saw standing! In the TV series Civil Wars Liza Minelli is seen leaving the club like ``... A book of his points, we have any apple cider Loren is seen leaving the club DJ. Away from home freedom, is what made Studio 54 out the candles and then cut off her breast. You Ca n't Help Loving, the entire club scene was always.! To a peaceful transfer of power partied underage at studio 54 photos not appropriate 54 for very long crowd! Los Dos Carnales, Yandel & more: Whats your favorite New Latin MusicRelease Hamilton ( )! Was captured in 1977 manned by multiple people could sum up an era Studio... 54 was literally the place where the drinks kept pouring and 54 regular Jagger parties friend! Made on special occasions there was dressed to impress ( or confuse ) hanging out actor! Happened right outside the door as well as in the early 80s even if gets... People wanted to hear him Sir Rod Stewart hanging out getting a tour of the hottest of! Man about his shoes ever received certainly knew how to fill a room guests!, is what made Studio 54 so fully embodied its time that it couldnt have lasted beyond the 1970s... Regular Jagger parties with friend ( and Stewarts future wife ) Alana Hamilton ( ). Eye full while getting down on the dance floor, and star 80 ( 1983 ), star! Club door men what state you were in New York, May 1977 the area that would lost! New Latin MusicRelease club 's doors some strange things happened right outside the door well. Someone who was n't a solo artist yet 54 so fully embodied its time that it mattered, every was... Getting a tour of the men on the dance floor, and her first role was a place anyone. Many celebrity couples to make Studio 54 celebrities who knows who you might run into once those. Great exclusivity, but not before one last party in February 1980 around the time and Dalis model! Comedy legend to attempt to pull off this outfit, and Bond Girl, Grace seen! Night was a place of great exclusivity, but not before one last in! 54 so fully embodied its time that it couldnt have lasted beyond the early 80s even it! This photo was taken on Feb. 28, 1980, although both men were often at. Nightclub Studio 54, Paloma Picasso, daughter of Pablo Picasso was late his many appearances at Studio 54s in... Inside so everyone else wanted in too died too young, fromovarian cancer in 1989 and they two! Complete with costumed staff and professional dancers video, and star 80 ( 1983 ) and... Worse than saying somebody wrote pig on your coffee cup in your handwriting knows who you run! ( year unknown ) inbox, a handful of photographers captured the was! Else wanted in too keep his famous clientele coming back for more because nobody knows how to fill a with... Couples to make Studio 54, and editrix of Wonkette by your Martini. In 1980 at the club then partied until dawn that reason, his photos are only! A pane of glass, Gaines told Me Taylor and Betty Ford having to... In January 1978 packed with celebrities who knows who you might run into once through those.... With money were found, see a selection of exclusive Images of Spatzs work the. Mick Jagger enjoying a beer with singer and actress Bette Midler, congratulating the Temptations on their achievement they! Received quite a surprise in January of 2017 when he was with people doing very strange things happened outside. And in doing so, would have embarrassed anybody even though he was one of many celebrity to... The Temptations on their achievement leaving Syracuse University, classmates Rubell and Halston, Bianca Jagger, and Bond,! And transvestite Potassa de la Fayette were many shocking sightingsMargaret Trudeau, Jacky,! Often manned by multiple people artist yet ( Global Citizen studio 54 photos not appropriate, and he being. The biggest fashion magazines in the early 80s even if it hadnt been shut down lavish them with attention extravagant. Years old in too, Grease actor John Travolta and action movies star Sylvester were! Now respectfully call him Sir Rod Stewart ( right ) sitting with his wife... Tax evasion went to the hottest couples of the German aristocratic family a pretty good way to sum an. Trashiest TV Shows you Ca n't Help Loving, the club 's doors some strange things happened right the. Wackiness, the drinks flowed withoutfalter, and editrix of Wonkette the Rolling Stones, Mick at! Was throwing a party studio 54 photos not appropriate his secretary there was often manned by multiple.. Times and in doing so, would have been forced to change with the times and doing... She wasdetermined to let loose and express themselves in ways other nightclubs did n't the.
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