Mercury Lounge

The Story

This building, constructed in 1900, housed the servants of the Astor family mansion on Fifth Avenue. Over time, it served as a restaurant and then a tombstone shop, until it became a 250-capacity music venue in 1993. In December 2000, The Strokes secured a residency at the venue, attracting industry attention and helping to boost their debut album Is This It. The club's promoter, Ryan Gentles, was so impressed that he quit his job to become their manager. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs made their live debut here on September 24, 2000, opening for the White Stripes. Interpol played important shows in 2000 and 2001, including the debut of drummer Sam Fogarino. Arcade Fire, The National, Lana Del Rey, Radiohead, and Lady Gaga also graced the small stage before finding fame. The Mercury Lounge remains one of the most important venues for discovering the next generation of indie rock.

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