Troubadour Troubles: Iconic Hollywood music venue hoping the beat will go on

It has been an iconic West Hollywood landmark for more than sixty years. The Troubadour has hosted many top artists including, Harry Styles and Stevie Nicks, Guns And Roses, and perhaps it is most famous for the 1970 US debut of Elton John. 

A performance that skyrocketed him to international fame. But now, the music could stop for this legendary venue that helped launch the careers of countless famous musicians.

Get breaking news alerts in the FOX 11 News app. Download for iOS or Android

“If you want us to stay here and we’re important to you. We need your help.” 

General Manager Christine Karayan has started a GoFundMe account to help cover the costs and salaries of their few remaining employees after The Troubadour was forced to close its doors in March because of COVID-19.

Fans and musicians are rallying around this popular and beloved venue. “We have to take care of places like this.” Said former Guns and Roses Guitarist, Gilby Clarke. He is among dozens of artists who got their start at The Troubadour.

RELATED: Stay up to date on all coronavirus-related information

“When you were just starting that’s where you wanted to play was The Troubadour.” Said Gilby Clarke. 

Clarke said the venue is an important part of music past and present: “The Troubadour didn’t just book anybody you had to be successful locally or internationally to play The Troubadour.” Said Clarke. 

“You could look at any radio playlist and I could say 10-15 of them easily played The Troubador.” Said Christine Karayan. 

According to Governor Newsom’s four-phase plan for reopening, concerts and concert venues would likely not restart until mid-2021 at the earliest.

Karayan says she doesn’t see how they can survive until then: “To be able to pay their bills and stay afloat for that length of time and even if we do open our doors what does that look like.” Said Karayan. 

With so much uncertainty, Karayan is hoping fans and musicians will help this important piece of Hollywood history rock on.

For more info: https://www.gofundme.com/f/troubadour-relief-fund