The Clash, The Damned, Buzzcocks, Billy Idol, Generation X, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Police, The Slits, The Stranglers
1976
This old warehouse in Covent Garden was transformed into a reggae club in the 70s before Andy Czezowski and Susan Carrington bought it and created The Roxy in December 1976, specifically to promote punk. The first show was on December 14, 1976, with Generation X, still led by Billy Idol. The official opening was on January 1, 1977, with The Clash playing to 400 people in a space meant for 100. Don Letts was the DJ and played Jamaican reggae between bands because there weren't enough punk records. Practically every major British punk band played here except the Sex Pistols. In 1977, the live album The Roxy London WC2 was released, reaching the top 20. The owners were removed by the landlord in April 1977 when the club became too famous and the rent went up. The Roxy continued for another year under different management and closed in 1978. A commemorative plaque was unveiled in April 2017 by founder Susan Carrington. For years, the building was Speedo's flagship store.
41-43 Neal Street, London WC2H 9PJ
London, United Kingdom