Mudd Club

The Story

This six-story loft belonged to artist Ross Bleckner, featuring an improvised bar with folding tables and a bathtub used to chill beer behind the counter. It was the antithesis of Studio 54's glamour, showcasing the rawer, more artistic side of New York nightlife. The fourth floor became an art gallery curated by Keith Haring. The B-52's played on opening night, followed by Talking Heads and Jean-Michel Basquiat's own band, Gray. Madonna was a regular, performing with her early bands, Breakfast Club and Emmy and the Emmys. David Bowie, Andy Warhol, Lou Reed, and Debbie Harry also frequented the space. The Mudd Club closed in 1983, the same year Madonna's debut album was released. The building is now a luxury condominium.

Explore more