Artists and fans are paying tribute to the Nottingham institution as it commemorates 40 years of live music. Since opening its doors in 1980, some of the biggest artists in the world have cut their teeth on its stage, including: Nirvana, U2, Amy Winehouse, Ed Sheeran, Rage Against The Machine, David Bowie and Public Enemy. 

The 2450 capacity venue started life as “The Heart of the Midlands”, which hosted variety acts including the inaugural World Professional Darts Championship in 1978. The building was taken over by George Akins Snr in 1980 and Rock City as we know it was born. The first ever gig took place on 11 December 1980, with a set from Northern Irish rock band The Undertones. Now, four decades later, the venue celebrates a legacy that sees it heralded as one of the best venues in the world.

George Akins, DHP’s Managing Director, reflects: “Forty years of a live music venue is a big achievement and I can’t wait until we can open up our doors properly and invite everyone back in to celebrate with us.”

Originally planning to have a diary packed full of special anniversary shows, from artists old and new, the team had to adapt to marking the occasion online. As Amy Lawson, Rock City programmer, who has been with the venue for over 20 years, states:  “We had loads of exciting stuff planned to mark Rock City’s 40^th birthday. As an independent venue, we’re really proud to have had such longevity and wanted to celebrate accordingly. Unfortunately Covid-19 has meant we’ve had to put a lot of these plans on hold, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be marking the occasion!

Over on our Rock City social channels we’re looking back at the amazing list of acts we’ve had play the venue and sharing memories from all of our incredible attendees. We’re grateful to all of the artists who have wished us a happy birthday by sending video messages. 

Next year we’ll be putting our efforts into celebrating 40+1 years of Rock City! We’ll have a month of  gigs throughout December, with some of our favourite acts returning and some extra special shows. We’ll also be looking at putting together an Anniversary booklet, holding backstage tours and creating a host of special items.

2020 has been a difficult year, but we’ll keep doing what we always do – rocking on!”

Rock City is an intrinsic part of the cultural and social history of the East Midlands, evidenced by the many stories from fans shared across social media. Through its gig programme and much-loved clubnights, Rock City has become a staple on the scene, and is one of the longest running truly independent venues. 

The two live rooms – Main Hall (1900) and Beta (235) are continuously full, with international touring artists as well as local acts.  In recent years, the venue has invested a lot in production: installing l’acoustic fills on the balcony for even better sound and clubnights, adding brand new, state of the art front of house and monitor desks and adding big lighting and video upgrades throughout the venue. This focus on production is one quality which keeps promoters using the venue after all these years. As Amy Lawson states: 

“The great sound and production in the venue mean it’s a popular choice for promoters of all genres, and we’ve seen huge movements in the diversity of our crowds. There will always be a demand for rock acts, but it’s great to be able to showcase a breadth of music and appeal to new audiences.”

Anton Lockwood, DHP’s Director of Live, elaborates: “As we have over the last 40 years, we will continue to innovate and improve, welcoming every new generation of music to keep Rock City relevant for many years to come.”

Share favourite gigs, pix and club nights at #40yearsofRockCity

For more info, go to https://www.facebook.com/ROCKCITYNOTTINGHAM