Uncensored Moments From The Past Not Meant For The Public
By | September 25, 2017
Catherine Bach - Daisy Duke - early 80's...groovy baby, yeah!
Looking back through times past can be just as entertaining as it is comforting. Especially during the 1960s and 1970s, so much happened between those decades. We put a man on the moon, pop culture icons favorites were in their prime, and music actually meant something.
America gained and then tragically lost one of its most charismatic leaders, John F. Kennedy. We had the hippie movement and Woodstock. The rise of rock ‘n’ roll brought some of the most talented musicians in history out of the woodwork and redefined what it was to make music.
Here we've gathered some iconic memories, some whimsical and amusing while others are powerful and may even leave you speechless. Collected here are over 200 photographs of some of the most meaningful moments and people in American culture in a way you have never seen them before.
Pictured here is a young Catherine Bach in the early '80s. She's donning a pair of pink shorts that are perfect for her iconic character Daisy Duke from the hit series Dukes of Hazzard.
Originally, the producers were looking for more of a Dolly Parton lookalike to fill the role (which Bach was not) but with those gams it didn't matter, she was hired on the spot anyway.
Bach is also responsible for Daisy Duke’s attire, the early idea was to have her in a tight white turtleneck, go-go boots, and a poodle skirt. But Bach went ahead and threw together a T-shirt, a pair of cut-off denim shorts, with some high heels, and the rest is history. The television series aired on CBS from January 26, 1979, to February 8, 1985. Interestingly enough, while starring on The Dukes of Hazzard, Bach had her legs insured for $1,000,000.
Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson, 1978
Where soul met pop, Gaye, known for his soulful lyrics about love and tenderness, speaks to Jackson who had already made a name for himself in a more upbeat genre which provoked a more energetic audience than that of Gaye’s. Jackson had already left "The Jackson's" boy band at this point and began his sharp ascent to super stardom.
Michael Jackson went from being a part of the Jackson Five with his family to later moonwalking his way into a wildly successful solo career in 1971, which propelled him into pop icon status. He quickly became one of the biggest entertainers in the world and was eventually dubbed the "King of Pop."
Arnold Schwarzenegger showing off his dance moves
Pictured here is the Terminator himself, back in his body builder days, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Who knew back when Mr. Universe was getting down on the dancefloor at the hottest nightclub in New York, that he'd not only go on to become one of the most sought-after action stars in the country but that he was also the future governor of California.
Here on the dance floor of Studio 54, the native Austrian is showing this unknown woman how to awkwardly bust a move during the disco era. Odd pairings seemed to run rampant throughout the club. They had the most diverse mix of interesting people filling the place every night.
Ann Margaret 1960s
There’s no topping the Hollywood legend. The onscreen chameleon has been the sweet brunette, the foxy redhead, and the blonde bombshell.
Her sexy, throaty singing voice had the public referring to her as the 'female Elvis’ and her love for motorcycles earned her a daredevil reputation.
The stranger the better at Studio 54
People came out in so many different kinds of get-ups that it was soon difficult to differentiate between what was real and what was fake. This man was rumored to have just left the hospital after facial reconstruction, others say it was just a self-made mask.
The photographer Hasse Persson later commented that he didn't know if this 'get up' was a genuine injury or not but he understands why this guy was let through the front door: "The whole place was like a happening, Steve Rubell was looking for the right mixture to make this a magic night. The place existed for about 1,000 nights, from 1977 to 1980, and every night was magical.” Simply put, at Studio 54 'odd' is good.
John Belushi, Keith Richards, and James Brown
Friendships were made within the walls of Studio 54. Here is actor and original Saturday Night Live cast member John Belushi with Keith Richards and the creator of funk and godfather of soul James Brown. James Brown was one of the artist who performed live at Studio 54. He recorded his double album 'Live in New York" in 1980 at the club. There is also a film recording of Brown's Studio 54 performance. It has received various releases, most notably is the 2008 DVD Double Dynamite.
Leonard Nimoy getting his Spock haircut for the television show, Star Trek, 1965
Pictured here is Fred Phillips giving Leonard Nimoy his classic Spock haircut and getting makeup before shooting. What many people don’t know about the television icon, is that he enlisted in the U.S. Army reserves in the early 1950's.
Nimoy spent 18 months in the reserves and put on entertaining shows for the Army Special Services during his tenor. He left the military with the rank of Sergeant and went on to become Spock.
Bill Nye in the '70s
Born William Sanford Nye in 1955, better known as Bill Nye the Science Guy is a mechanical engineer, presenter, and educator. His popular kids’ television show known also as Bill Nye the Science Guy ran from 1993- 1998 and sought to provide children with scientific knowledge of everyday facts. The show was very well-received and nominated for 23 Emmy Awards, of which, it won nineteen.
Following his success with his show, Nye went on to become the CEO of The Planetary Society and he's written two best-selling books on science: "Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation" and "Unstoppable: Harnessing Science to Change the World".
Nye has made many television appearances over the years, on "Dancing with the Stars", "The Big Bang Theory" and "Inside Amy Schumer". He also starred in a documentary titled "Bill Nye: Science Guy", which was based on his life. Most recently, in 2017, he has a new Netflix series out, entitled "Bill Nye Saves the World".
Grace Jones out on the town in NYC
Pictured here is the Jamaican model, actress, singer, and Bond Girl, Grace Jones. Jones was one of the many glamorous celebrities who visited the club on a regular basis. She would strut her stuff through the club wearing out-there clothing and makeup to match. Not that she was alone in her efforts to stand out, just about everyone there was dressed to impress (or confuse).
Strange color combinations, face paint, elaborate headpieces... it must have been like Disneyland to Elton John. It was hard for any one person to secure the spotlight inside Studio 54 for very long.
Françoise Hardy, 1960s
French singer-songwriter Françoise Hardy made her musical debut back in the early 1960s on Disques Vogue. Her song "Tous les garçons et les filles" was an immediate success. She recorded in multiple languages and began appearing in movies in between touring throughout Europe. She found herself at the very forefront of the French music scene and even gained the admiration of successful musicians such as Bob Dylan and Mick Jagger.
She began modeling and her unique style paired with the talents of photographer Jean-Marie Périer, Hardy soon became a popular fashion and cultural icon as well.
Her lyrics are still being referenced and used in soundtracks in many popular shows like Gilmore Girls, proving that her music has remained relevant and admired throughout the decades since their initial release.
Actress Jane Fonda shopping at the supermarket in the late 1960's
Kicking off her career at the beginning of the decade, Fonda starred in an array of films which earned her both a Golden Globe and Oscar nominations. By the end of the decade, Fonda became a household name with acclaimed hits such as “Walk on the Wild Side” and “Cat Ballou” in her repertoire.
Jane Fonda was widely admired by the American public but interestingly enough, she was also being spied on by the U.S government. Fonda was one of 1,600 Americans who was being monitored by the NSA. All Fonda’s and her husband's (Tom Hayden) communications were monitored by the government between 1967 and 1973.
During the 1960s, Fonda had heavily engaged in political activism. She was a supporter of the Civil Rights Movement and in strong opposition to the Vietnam War. She was a public figure that openly spoke out against the government so she was considered a possible threat. The fashion model, actress, and former activist went on to become a fitness guru and has managed to keep herself off government watchlists since then.
Susan Sarandon, 1974
A lot can be said about Susan Abigail Sarandon. For one, she’s an Academy Award and BAFTA Award winner. Two, she’s a very passionate activist. Three, she’s one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood, and the list goes on.
Susan broke out in Hollywood with the 70s film Joe, then moved on to day time TV in a soap opera named A world Apart. After that, she really gained momentum after being cast in The Rocky Horror Picture Show and of course, the ultimate classic, Thelma and Louise. The actress also starred on Broadway in the 70s and returned in 2009.
Susan was born in New York and was the oldest of nine children. She grew up in New Jersey and finished college in Washington D.C. In 1969, she went to a casting call and it was the beginning of a very successful acting career.
Susan has had quite the list of lovers, including Chris Sarandon (her college boyfriend turned husband), Louis Malle, David Bowie, Franco Amurri, Tim Robbins and Jonathan Bricklin. The 70 year old beauty is currently single now.
David Bowie Performing in a sailor suit, 1978
David Robert Jones, known professionally as David Bowie, was one of the most iconic singers, songwriters and actors in the world. Unfortunately, he lost his life to liver cancer, just two days after his 69th birthday in 2016.
David grew up in London, England with his parents, a waitress and a promotions officer. In the school choir, his teachers say that his voice didn’t particularly standout but his teachers did notice that he had a very artistic soul. When he was just 15 years old, he formed his first band, but left soon after because his band mates didn’t share his dreams.
Fast forward a few years later, David meets Leslie Conn, who promotes him and encourages his aspirations. He released an album under her management but it did not perform well (at all).
David was never deterred; he enrolled himself in some dance classes and continued to be his theatrical self which would eventually lead to his immense success. He would soon be known for his crazy hairstyles, outfits and antics and even better music.
Bill Clinton and Hilary Rodham enjoying some volleyball, Summer 1975
After meeting at Yale in 1971, Rodham and Clinton married in October, 1975 and had daughter Chelsea in 1980. The couple were trailblazers in the political world, and eventually Bill went on to become the 42nd President of the United States in 1993.
Unfortunately all was not all well in the marriage. Bill Clinton would go on to have sexual relations with a White House intern named Monica Lewinsky. And while the two never did the deed, they did get to third base. The affair sent shockwaves throughout the US and the rest of the world. Because of Bill lying under oath and therefore obstructing justice, he was impeached; the second president in the history of the US to suffer that fate. Luckily, he was acquitted.
Monica was sent away to work elsewhere, while Hillary was left to pick up the pieces of her marriage. The two endured and are still going strong today. In 2016, Hilary Clinton ran unsuccessfully for the President of the United States and many blame Bill’s antics for shining a light on concerns about Hillary.
Muhammad Ali with Kris Kristofferson during filming for Freedom Road, 1979
Developed as a mini-series based on the novel by Howard Fast, "Freedom Road" was aired on NBC in 1979 and starred both Ali and Kristofferson. The story is based on a true story, but naturally, the film and book take a number of liberties.
In it, Ali plays Gideon Jackson, an ex-slave, and Union soldier who heads back home to South Carolina after the Civil War ends and decides to become a US senator. As a representative of all black ex-slaves and in celebration of their freedom, Jackson does succeed and is elected first to the state legislature and then eventually to the US Senate. He faces opposition from law enforcement officials and white landowners, and of course the Ku Klux Klan.
Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka, 1971
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was a 1971 fantasy film starring Gene Wilder and directed by Mel Stuart. Gene played the crazy, kooky and very eccentric Will Wonka, who admitted five children from all over the world into his chocolate factory for a chance to own it.
The performance was one of Gene’s most iconic; he was hired for the role after just reciting a few lines for the director, beating out the likes of Joel Grey, Fred Astaire and Jon Pertwee. He even beat out Spike Milligan, an actor chosen by the author, Roald Dahl, himself.
The book, entitled Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was written in 1964. It was met with both positive and negative reviews but it is still seen as one of the best children’s books today.
The film itself was not a commercial success, despite receiving positive reviews from critics. After starring in the movie, Gene went on to star in Young Frankenstein, Silver Streak (which he got a Golden Globe for) and Will & Grace, which he got a Primetime Emmy Award.
Charles Bronson (1963)
Pictured here is actor Charles Bronson, starring alongside Hollywood heavyweight Steven McQueen, in The Great Escape back in 1963. Bronson had already starred in a number of successful films and big screen roles since 1951. His film and television career boast a production almost every year from 1951 to 1999. He starred in films such as The Dirty Dozen, House of Wax, Once Upon a Time in the West, The Magnificent Seven, Rider on the Rain, The Mechanic, and the Death Wish series.
Bronson, often referred to as a "rugged Clark Gable", made a big name for himself in the U.S. and Europe, earning award nominations overseas in addition to his wins here in America. Sadly, Bronson was forced to retire from acting after undergoing a hip replacement surgery in 1998, and his health continued to deteriorate. He died at age 81 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, on August 30, 2003.
Led Zeppelin, 1970
Having only formed in ’68, Led Zeppelin experienced major commercial success in the span of a few years after being heavily sampled and influential in Rock and Roll.
Led Zeppelin consisted of guitarist Jimmy Page, singer Robert Plant, bassist and keyboardist John Paul Jones, and drummer John Bonham. The band's long-form songs with heavy, guitar-driven sound led to them being cited as one of the progenitors of heavy metal. They drew their unique style drew from a wide variety of genres including blues, psychedelia, and folk music. Although they were initially unpopular with critics their fame grew exponentially, with their song "Stairway to Heaven", now among the most influential works in rock music history.
1969 Holden Hurricane Concept Car
It was a sleek, two-seat concept car and one of the most advanced vehicles of its time. It didn't have conventional doors; instead, it had a hydraulically powered canopy that was able to swing forwards, tilt, and rise up. Additional features included Pathfinder, which guided the driver using magnetic signals built into the road. It also had digital displays, automatic temperature control, an auto-seek radio function and a rear-view, wide-angle camera in the rear bumper. The camera was connected to a screen built into the center console.
Nico & Lou Reed (1966)
Pictured here is the frontman for the Velvet Underground Lou Reed and the German musician, model, and actress Nico, who became famous as a Warhol superstar in the 1960s.
This duo wrote, composed and mastered many songs for Nico’s solo career which began in 1967. Members of the Velvet Underground also assisted Nico’s solo efforts. The band was briefly managed by pop artist Andy Warhol, and it was under him, that they released their debut LP, “The Velvet Underground & Nico.”
The Velvet Underground is now widely recognized as one of the most influential rock bands. Their musical experimentation, provocative subject matter, and often nihilistic attitudes proved to be extremely influential in the development of punk rock, new wave, and alternative rock music.
Stevie Wonder and Teddy Pendergrass
Pictured here is former child prodigy and music icon Stevie Wonder, alongside lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, Teddy Pendergrass.
Hosting theme parties and with birthday celebrations was a common occurrence at Studio 54. On this particular night, Stevie Wonder was throwing a party for his secretary there. Stevie was set up on a platform to perform. He Teddy Pendergrass, Stephen Stills, and Stephanie Mills all got together to jam out. They played “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” on the loudspeaker and everybody was blown away. And of course, there was dancing.
Before Google there were Encyclopedias
Once upon a time in a not so distant past, Google didn’t exist, it wasn’t founded until 1998. So those researching papers or simply curious had to get their information from books, the most reliable sources being Encyclopedias. These volumes of reference work provided summaries of information from any branch of knowledge from all fields and disciplines. They’ve existed for over 2,000 years and will forever remain more accurate than and random “facts” blog you pull up.
Hillary Clinton getting her face painted at Wellesley College, 1960s
A candid shot of Hilary Clinton getting her face painted at Wellesley College event back in the 1960s. By 1993 she would be married to President Bill Clinton and then go on to be the 67th Secretary of State to President Barack Obama. More recently she was a Presidential candidate herself, running against Trump in the 2017 election.
Captured here is a feeling of ease and leisure. A time before politics and the pressure that goes along with it. It's refreshing to see the former first lady and presidential candidate as just a fun-loving girl enjoying college life.
John Lennon and his Aunt Mimi Smith taking Julian to the beach 1967
Lennon, a prominent face in the musical craze of the 60’s and 70’s, had two children in his lifetime; two sons: Julian (b.1963) and Sean (b.1975).
Aunt Mimi Smith was Lennon's maternal aunt and his parental guardian. Lennon lived with her for most of his childhood and they remained very close as he grew older. Although it is said that she was "dismissive" of Lennon's musical ambitions, his many girlfriends, and multiple wives. She may have been right not to take his romantic interests too seriously (as he didn't seem to for very long either) but she was wrong about his music, often telling him as a teenager: "The guitar's all right John, but you'll never make a living out of it".
Before "Netflix and chill" there were Drive-Ins (1960s)
Netflix may have improved the quality of life for the masses, however, it’s put a damper on date night for long-term couples. What about the good ol’ days of drive-in dates? It's always nicer to put in the effort to look nice for the guy/gal you’re ‘going steady’ with (which won't happen if you're home on the couch). And with drive-ins, you still get some privacy because you're in your own car. Drive-ins were at their peak in popularity during the late 1950s and early 1960s. They were a favorite date spot for teens and eventually dubbed "passion pits" because of the excessive make out sessions.
The Beatles during the live broadcast of All You Need Is Love, 1967.
This was a promotional photo for the “Our World TV Special.” Pictured here are the Beatles surrounded by balloons and placards during the live broadcast of All You Need Is Love in 1967.
The special broadcast featured segments spanning five continents and the producers had two stipulations, the first being that nothing would be pre-filmed, they wanted it to be a live broadcast. And secondly, there were to be no appearances from politicians. The special was meant to focus on each participating nation’s technology, way of life and culture. Obviously, given the Beatles’ global wide popularity, they were asked to participate in rampant the United Kingdom’s segment.
Jack Ford went out to play
People came out in so many different kinds of get-ups that it was soon difficult to differentiate between what was real and what was fake. This man was rumored to have just left the hospital after facial reconstruction, others say it was just a self-made mask.
The photographer Hasse Persson later commented that he didn't know if this 'get up' was a genuine injury or not but he understands why this guy was let through the front door: "The whole place was like a happening, Steve Rubell was looking for the right mixture to make this a magic night. The place existed for about 1,000 nights, from 1977 to 1980, and every night was magical.” Simply put, at Studio 54 'odd' is good.
Joe Strummer in the 70s
A 2003 inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Strummer was known as one of the most influential British artists, having been a member of the group the Clash; known for their hand in the development of punk and alternative rock. The Clash's rebellious attitude, politicized lyrics, and experimental sound, had a far-reaching influence on various genres, as they incorporated a great deal of varying sounds into their work: ska, rap, reggae, dub, funk, and rockabilly.
Their second album, Give 'Em Enough Rope was released in 1978 and quickly climbed all the way up to number 2 on the UK charts. Soon their success spread over to the United States with London Calling in 1979. The reached their peak in 1982 with Combat Rock, which was number 7 on the US charts and certified 2× platinum.
Natalie Wood posing [1970]
Born to Russian parents, as Natalia Nikolaevna Zakharenko, began her career as a child actor and eventually graduated to older, more complex roles. Natalie Wood was most famous for her roles in hit films such as Miracle on 34th Street, West Side Story, Splendor in the Grass, Rebel Without a Cause, and The Searchers. She also starred in many television-movie productions, including a remake of From Here to Eternity back in 1979, for which she won a Golden Globe Award.
Sadly, the Hollywood icon died under mysterious circumstances in November of 1981 at the age of 43. She was in the middle of shooting the film Brainstorm (1983) when she when out boating overnight with her husband Robert Wagner, co-star Christopher Walken, and the boat's captain, Dennis Davernwhich when she 'went missing' after an argument with her husband. Her body was recovered the following day a mile from the boat. While drowning was the cause of death, how she ended up in the water has and remains a topic of speculation.
Ronald Reagan hosting GE Theater (1950s)
A decorated actor, Reagan sat as the head of many important film committees such as the Screen Actors Guild and as a host of the General Electric Theatre. As an active politician, he was elected as the 40th President of the United States between 1981 to 1989, serving two terms.
Upon leaving office in 1989, Reagan's legacy has been a topic of substantial debate. Foreign policy triumphs certainly include a peaceful end to the Cold War, not to mention the boost in pride and morale in America. Supporters have also pointed out the efficiency of his economic policies led to more prosperity for the nation.
Curtis Lee Mayfield at Studio 54
Pictured here is Curtis Lee Mayfield, one of the most influential musicians of the soul and R& B genre.
After leaving the Impressions in 1970, Mayfield pursued a solo career and released several albums, including the soundtrack for the film Super Fly in 1972. The album was ranked at no. 72 on Rolling Stone's list of 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
Mayfield won a Grammy Legend Award in 1994, a year later he won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and was then a double inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. First in 1991 as a member of the Impressions and then again as a solo artist in 1999.
He was also a two-time Grammy Hall of Fame inductee who was known to occasionally boogie on the dance floor as can be seen here.
Brigitte Bardot 1970s
The French model, actress, and singer was the original blonde bombshell. Brigitte Bardot’s style, grace, and eventually her passion for animal rights heavily influenced style and culture as a whole. Her hair, makeup, and style has been emulated across the world, and she even has a signature pose models try to reproduce to this very day.
Andy Warhol at his favorite haunt, Studio 54
By now you've probably guessed that Studio 54 was one of Andy Warhol's favorite spots in New York. Especially considering the birthday gift the club owners bestowed upon him. Here he is, once again at his favorite nightspot with Canadian actress and author Margaret Trudeau. At the time this photo was taken Margaret Trudeau's husband was the Canadian Prime Minister.
Margaret Trudeau, Jacky Kennedy-Onassis, Yves Saint Laurent... some of the names on the Studio 54 guest list are a bit shocking... if only because of the club's wild reputation. You're talking about political figures, champions for the arts and education showing up to a club with a room upstairs that's completely rubber for easy cleanup purposes.
Johnny Cash, 1962
Born in Kingsland, Arkansas, little J.R. Cash would grow up to be one of the most well-known actors and singer/songwriters in American history. He is still known and seen today as one of the best-selling music artists of all time, having sold more than 90 million records all around the world.
His talent was not just with one genre, country- which he is mainly remembered for, but he also dabbled in rock and roll, folk, blues and even gospel. His work in those genres has caused him to be inducted into the Rock and Roll, Country Music and Gospel Music Halls of Fame.
Johnny was also well-known and well-loved by the Native Americans. He wrote songs about their lives and even featured them in some of his songs, despite the fact that songs about cowboys, which went against the Native American way, being extremely popular at the time.
He was also known to perform concerts in the prisons, and recorded them; two of those records became number one country albums on the Billboard charts.
When he wasn’t singing, Cash starred in more than seven films, most of them being narrating roles.
John Lennon 1958.
Pictured here is a young John Lennon with his first wife Cynthia Powell-Lennon. This photograph was taken back in 1958 before Lennon co-founded the Beatles and became a world-famous superstar.
It was in April of 1962 that Cynthia found she was pregnant, and they got married. Little Julian was born in April 1963, just in time for Beatlemania to set in. It was later said that Lennon was cruel to his wife and to their son. In fact, Lennon's callous attitude towards his son famously inspired Paul McCartney to write "Hey Jude".
Cynthia raised Julian mostly on her own. After Lennon began taking LSD heavily, she knew their relationship was heading for disaster. Then, after returned home after a holiday in Greece she found her husband in a robe on the floor with Yoko Ono, (with no signs the guest room was used). She simply turned around and left.
Janis Joplin laying on a couch in the 1960's.
Pictured here is the blues influenced rock singer Janis Joplin kicking back with a bottle of Southern Comfort whiskey on a couch backstage in San Francisco in 1968. Despite having only released three albums before her untimely death, Janis Joplin is arguably one of the most prominent female rock stars of all time.
At a time when women were screaming for equality, Janis Joplin walked onto the scene and became the biggest female rock star of the era. She was this powerful voice breaking new ground for women in the rock music industry. She was the embodiment of a wild child, leaving the confining community she grew up in to do things her way.
She rocked Woodstock along with icons like Jimi Hendrix, Santana, and Jefferson Airplane among many others. She was found dead of a heroin overdose in October of 1970. News of her death shook the music world which was still processing the loss of Jimi Hendrix who was also found dead of an overdose just sixteen days earlier.
Z- Boy Jay Adams, 1970’s
George Harrison meets Bob Marley backstage at the Roxy in LA, 1975
It was backstage at the Roxy in Los Angeles, California that music legends George Harrison and Bob Marley met for the first time. It was July 13, 1975 and the two idols of the era had massive international tours going on at the time. But each man was a fan of the other and were happy to finally meet.
George Harrison was a fan of Bob Marley’s music and he had just finished recording the album Extra Texture at the time of the meeting. Harrison was invited backstage and upon hearing that he was coming back, Marley reportedly got excited, lit up a joint, and exclaimed, “Ras Beatle!”
The two expressed their mutual admiration for each other over a smoke and that was that.
An eclectic group of celebrities hanging out at Studio 54
Here is yet another group of eclectic celebrity friends. We have Liza Minnelli is record producer David Geffen's arms. Next to him is none other than Michael Jackson (with a huge smile on his face) and another producer, Quincy Jones.
Owners of Studio 54 had a method to their madness at the front door. They wanted only the most famous, glamorous, rich, beautiful, and interesting people inside. Steve Rubel used to joke, ‘If I wasn’t the owner, I wouldn’t be allowed in.’
Barack Obama as a freshman college student, 1980
After completing high school, Barack moved to LA to attend the Occidental College, a private, co-ed, liberal arts college. He then transferred to Ivy League School, Columbia University, where he majored in political science with a specialty in international relations; he majored in English literature as well. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1983 and went to work right after.
Two years after graduating, he moved to Chicago, where he was hired by a church-based organization. He became a Harvard Law School student in 1998 and did exceedingly well there. He would go on to meet his future wife, Michelle while working at a law firm where she had to mentor him.
Barack graduated magna cum laude, an award normally given to the top ten to fifteen percent graduates of the class, with a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from Harvard in 1991. He was given a fellowship upon before he even graduated.
He would successfully contest the Presidency of the United States in 2008 and 2012. Obama is the first African American to hold such a post.
Marilyn Monroe performing for American Troops in Korea, February 1954
Sex icon of the 1950s, Marilyn Monroe, hopped a plane and flew to Korea in February of 1954 to entertain American troops. She had just returned from her honeymoon with new husband Joe DiMaggio. The newlyweds had been in Japan when Monroe detoured to the Daegu Air Force Base.
Monroe spent the following four days on a whirlwind tour of American military bases. She put on 10 shows for an estimated 100,000 servicemen. Later Monroe revealed it was a welcomed break from tensions with her highly jealous new hubby and that the tour also helped her overcome all lingering stage fright she still had left.
"[The trip] was the best thing that ever happened to me. I never felt like a star before in my heart. It was so wonderful to look down and see a fellow smiling at me."
Frank Zappa in his Los Angeles home in 1970.
Jimi Hendrix, Woodstock 1969
Johnny Allen Hendrix or James Marshall Hendrix was arguably one of the best rock and roll artists that the world ever saw. The rock and roll hall of famer was best known for the way he played the electric guitar.
Two years before he began performing, Jimi Hendrix was enlisted in the US Army. He was granted an honorable discharge after a year and moved to Tennessee where he began to play. He was soon playing with the Isley Brothers, Little Richard and Curtis Knight.
In 1966, he signed with his first manager who helped him land three songs on the UK top ten hits. After his third studio album, Electric Ladyland, hit number one in the US, Jimi Hendrix was a household name and was being booked for all the major events, including Woodstock.
In 1969, he headlined the show and became the world’s highest paid performer at the time. Sadly, Jimi died a little over a year later, not even having reached his full potential, at the young age of 27. He is still being talked about today.
Yul Brynner and Truman Capote
Studio 54's doors were also opened to authors. Author Truman Capote is pictured here having a chat with actor Yul Brynner. Truman is the man responsible for the novella Breakfast at Tiffany's, and many of his short stories, novels, plays, are all recognized as literary classics.
Yul Brynner starred in movies like The Ten Commandments and the (original) Magnificent Seven. He was best known for his portrayal of King Mongkut of Siam in the musical The King and I, for which he won two Tony Awards followed by an Academy Award for the film adaptation.
Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin holds a dove on stage in 1973
Pictured here is Robert Plant, lead singer and songwriter of one of the greatest bands of all time, Led Zeppelin. He's holding a dove that flew into his hand while he was on stage, back in 1973. Plant was heavily into folklore and superstitions (as are most Zeppelin fans). So there’s is no doubt that many members of the audience had their minds blown by the sheer coincidence of this bird deciding to perch on Plant’s hand. A coincidence that was most definitely taken as a ‘sign’ from above by the chemically altered minds in attendance.
Apparently, the promoters thought releasing a bunch of doves would add to the ambiance. One just happened to land on Robert's hand and the photographer captured what would become one of Plant’s more “iconic” shots. While there wasn’t anything magical at work, the tiny peasant top reminiscent of something Snow White would wear certainly isn’t helping matters.
Marilyn Practices Ukulele for 'Some Like It Hot', 1959
Born Norma Jeane Baker, the actress better known as Marilyn Monroe strikes a pose with a ukulele for a promotional portrait for film Some Like it Hot, directed by Billy Wilder in 1959.
Famous for playing the dumb blond roll in many of the films and TV shows she starred in, Marilyn also became one of the hottest sex symbols not only in America, but also in the entire world. By the time she died, her movies grossed over $200 million- a ton of money at the time.
The beauty was one of the most booked and requested models and actresses during the 50s and 60s (before her untimely death). Understandably, she was also one of the most sought after women, by actors, businessmen and various billionaires. In fact, Marilyn had already married three different times before her death at the very young age of thirty six.
In 1962, Marilyn was found dead in her home from an apparent drug overdose. Her death has sparked numerous conspiracy theories about her death; including that it may have even been John F. Kennedy.
Stephen Hawking with his wife Jane Wilde, 1965
Stephen Hawking is one of the greatest minds to ever inhabit planet earth. He was and still is one of the leading geniuses in the field of physics and cosmology. He is also and author, known for his works on history, black holes, the universe and mathematical breakthroughs. Currently, Hawking is a Director at the Center for Theoretical Cosmology, a branch at the University of Cambridge.
Despite being poor, both of Stephen’s parents attended the University of Oxford. After meeting shortly after the start of World War II, the two were married and had three children. The family traveled a lot and was considered to be very eccentric by others.
Stephen was married to Jane Wilde, who was a friend of one of his sisters in 1965. Because they were still at school, the two live apart for the first year of their marriage. The two had three children by 1979. Hawking eventually left his wife for one of his nurses and the two were married in 1995. Hawking and Elaine Mason would eventually divorce 11 years later.
Elizabeth Taylor at the Gare de Lyon, Paris. (1971)
Taylor went from being an actress to launching her own line of products and throwing herself into philanthropic endeavors. Taylor was among the first celebrities to devote themselves to HIV/AIDS activism. She went on to found the National AIDS Research Foundation.
Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand, parents of Angelina Jolie, 1970's.
John Voight and Marceline Bertrand parents of Angelina Jolie attend “Stars for McGovern” Benefits Fundraiser at Madison Square Garden in 1972. While the two of them seem to be beaming here, they would later split up.
Bertrand started acting after high school, she met and married actor Jon Voight in 1971, when she was just 21 years old. The couple had two children together, James Haven (1973) and Angelina Jolie (1975)– both of whom became actors. After Voight cheated on his wife, Bertrand filed for divorce in 1978.
Cast of Star Wars having a drink circa 1977
Sophia Loren's wardrobe malfunction at Studio 54
Italian actress and beauty pageant contestant Sophia Loren is seen leaving the club with a split in her blouse. Sophia, who was in the city to promote one of her books at the time, decided to stop by the club on March 11th, 1979.
This sixties screen goddess got her start in the 1950s but it wasn’t until her performance as Cesira in “Vittorio De Sica's Two Women” that Loren' talents were recognized. The role earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1962. This made her the first artist to win an Oscar for a foreign-language performance.
Outrageous costumes filled the dancefloor
Here is another picture of the first Halloween at Studio 54. Costumes ranged from animals to mimes and burlesque dancers to circus folk.
One thing that people loved about the club was that even though celebrities frequented the spot, locals were still streaming through the doors all decked out in their most outrageous attire ready to indulge and dance the night away. Halloween at Studio 54 was an event not to be missed. According to Judy Garland's daughter, actress Lorna Luft, "Studio 54 made Halloween in Hollywood look like a PTA meeting."
Bill Murray around 1970
Illinois born and raised actor Bill Murray didn’t know it when he was young, but he would grow up to be one of the most famous comedians in Hollywood. The Golden Globe, BAFTA and Academy Award winning actor came from humble beginnings but would soon strike gold in the land of the stars.
From a young age he loved performing, having been the lead singer in a teen rock band and performing in his high school theater shows. He went to college to pursue medicine but quickly dropped out and went back home.
His older brother Brian invited him to perform with an improve comedy group and he quickly accepted. He then moved to New York and worked as a feature character on The National Lampoon Radio Hour. It was because of this show that Murray starred on Saturday Night Live.
He would go on to star in hits like Meatballs, Caddyshack, Tootsie, Stripes and the legendary (and unforgettable) Ghostbusters.
Pictured here is a young Bill Murray sometime in the 70’s just as his career was taking off.
Pictured is none other than Liza Minnelli, one of the clubs most frequent celebs. Also next to her are fashion designer Halston, on her right, and on the left is one of the co-owners of Studio 54, Steve Rubell.
Minnelli is the daughter of actress Judy Garland and the film director, Vincente Minnelli. She moved to New York City in 1961 and began working in musical theatre. Her professional stage debut was in the 1963 Off-Broadway revival of Best Foot Forward. Then in 1965, her performance in a Musical for Flora the Red Menace earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress, making her the youngest recipient ever in this category.
Before Digital Cameras there were Polaroids
Not that digital photography doesn’t offer gorgeous results instantly, (not to mention all the editing possibilities) but there’s just something about an old-fashioned Polaroid. The snap of the shutter, the whir as the photo spits out, and the anticipation as you wait for the haze to clear away. There’s no beating it.
Polaroid also created an instant movie camera system, called Polavision. You bought a kit and in it was a camera, some film, and a movie viewer. You'd shoot the movie, then take it out of the camera and slide it into the viewer where it would be developed. After that, you had yourself a groovy little Super 8 mm film.
The biggest issue was the low film speed (ASA 40), which meant you'd have to overcompensate with really bright lighting. It also didn't capture sound so the novelty of these things wore off fast. Especially once VHS came out and the Super 8 format became outdated. It was a neat idea though.
Sally Field in the 1970's
The award-winning actress Sally Field began her career with roles in hit sitcoms like, “Gidget", "The Flying Nun," and "The Girl with Something Extra." It wasn't until 1977 that she took on her first film role, which was "Smokey and the Bandit." She was in a relationship with Burt Reynolds at the time and the two love birds went on to co-star in "Smokey and the Bandit II", "The End", and "Hooper" together. She later went on to receive the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1979 for her performance in “Norma Rae” and the award nominations just kept rolling in from there.
Johnny Cash eating cake, 1971.
Pictured here is the legend Johnny Cash, captured in the act of chowing down on fistfuls of strawberry cake (because forks will only slow him down). So here he is, in all his glory, sitting in the bushes during what was probably the most intense case of the munchies ever.
It’s no secret that the singer struggled with drugs and alcohol all throughout his life.
The late Hall of Famer was quoted in the book Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Reader, "I took all the drugs there are to take, and I drank." He went on to say, "everybody said that Johnny Cash was through 'cause I was walkin' around town 150 pounds. I looked like walking death."
He partied hard and made no efforts to hide it. This picture of Johnny, high as a kite, would go on to be used as the art for the back cover of his album entitled Strawberry Cake back in 1971.
Tanya Roberts...skateboarding never looked so good, 1970's.
This former Bond girl enjoys a ride on her skateboard in the 1970s. Tanya Roberts is best known for playing Stacey Sutton in the James Bond film "A View To A Kill" and later Midge Pinciotti in the TV sitcom "That ‘70s Show".
But before all that, her career began as a model, she was in TV ads for Excedrin, Ultra Brite, Clairol, and Cool Ray sunglasses. She was also an Arthur Murray dance instructor as she worked towards her big break in films. Her film debut was a horror movie called "Forced Entry" (1975). Then she landed a role in the comedy "The Yum-Yum Girls" (1976). In the summer of 1980, she replaced Shelley Hack in the fifth season of the "Charlie's Angels" television series and by 1985 she was a Bond girl.
Easy Rider 1969.
Peter Fonda wearing a leather American flag jacket and Dennis Hopper wearing a fringed poncho style shirt in the 1969 independent road drama film, Easy Rider.
The 1969 film was also co-written by Peter Fonda, along with Dennis Hopper and Terry Southern. Fonda produced it and Hopper directed. In it, Fonda and Hopper star as two bikers who smuggling cocaine from Mexico to Los Angeles and then have to travel back with the drug money.
The notion of 'free love' is explored as is drug experimentation. Easy Rider became a landmark counterculture film, often referred to as a "touchstone for a generation" that "captured the national imagination. "
Before Lady Gaga there was David Bowie
There is literally no singular artist that could truly compare to David Bowie. The only way to adequately attempt a modern approach to Bowie’s style would be to create a Trent Reznor-Bjork-Lady Gaga hybrid. However, Lady Gaga has consistently taken on the role of reinventing the “artistic mega pop star” at an extreme level, much like Bowie did. But of course, the truth remains, she’s no David Bowie. His innovation with music, performance art, and visual presentation as a whole are unmatched.
Before The Shins there was The Beatles
Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta kissing in Studio 54
Now these two actors never admitted to dating each other but why else would they be kissing inside Studio 54. The two Grease stars, Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta must have chosen that time to practice for their on-screen roles.
After starring in Grease in 1978, Oliva's life changed forever, she became one of 'America's Sweethearts' and her career flourished. She also became an advocate for animal rights and after going into remission from breast cancer, she became an advocate for health awareness as well.
After starring in (now) classics, Saturday Night Fever (1977) and Grease in 1978, John Travolta's career became huge. He’s been relatively steady ever since, his most recent role was in 2016, in the first season of the compelling new anthology series American Crime Story. The first season was titled The People v. O. J. Simpson and Travolta portrayed one of O.Js lawyers, Robert Shapiro.
1969 Oakland A's Ball-Girl
Who doesn’t love munching on a bag of Mrs. Fields cookies? As history would reveal, before conquering the baked goods industry, Debbi Fields earned money as an Oakland A’s ball girl. Here she is, pictured back in 1969, retrieving baseballs grounded foul by batters.
It wasn’t until the late 1970s when Debbi decided to follow her passion in life and launch her cookie business. Initially, she opened up a shop called Mrs. Field’s Chocolate Chippery in Palo Alto, California back in 1977. Little did she know, she was launching an empire. She turned her chocolate chip cookie recipe into a $450 million company. It would go on to become known as Mrs. Field's Cookies once she began to diversify beyond the classic chocolate chip.
Alfred Hitchcock directs Kim Novak (1958)
Pictured here are actress Kim Novak and director Alfred Hitchcock working on the film “Vertigo.” The film was adapted from the 1954 novel “From Among the Dead” by Boileau- Narcejac. Novak was the second option for the leading role as the original actress Vera Miles became pregnant at the time of production and had to withdraw from the film. Lucky for her!
This Hitchcock masterpiece is the tale of romantic obsession, manipulation, and of course fear. Detective Scottie Ferguson (James Stewart) discovers he has vertigo and a fear of heights while. When a police officer dies trying to save him from falling off a building he decides to retire.
He is quickly drawn into yet another P.I. case by an old friend who wants him to watch his wife, Madeleine (Kim Novak). Apparently, she’s been acting strange and has been possessed by a spirit. As Scottie follows the beautiful Madeleine he begins to fall in love with her, and she seems to feel the same. At every turn preconceptions are shifted, tragedy strikes and it seems to spiral into a cycle of madness and lies.
David Byrne of Talking Heads in 1978
As the front man, guitarist and songwriter of the group, Byrne is known for his peculiar vocals. The band was formed in June of 1975 and went on to release 8 studio albums. In 2002, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame where they reunited for the first time since their disbandment in 1991.
Byrne had taken on side projects while he was still with Talking Heads, including a collaboration with Brian Eno during 1979 and 1981 on the album "My Life in the Bush of Ghosts", which received considerable critical acclaim. His first solo album was "Rei Momo" was released in 1989 after he left Talking Heads.
Pictured here is film, television and theater actress and singer Shirley MacLaine as she celebrates the birthday of Congresswoman, social activist and feminist Bella Abzug. This was just one of several occasions Shirley MacLaine was spotted at Studio 54. Her famous actor and lady-killer of a brother Warren Beatty was also spotted working the dancefloor (and the crowd) on numerous occasions. In fact, Beatty began attending on opening night, which was exactly the hedonistic sideshow of an event you'd expect it to be– and naturally, it kept him coming back for more.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, when he first step foot in New York, 1968
Arnold Schwarzengger grew up in a very strict household. His father, the local chief of police and also a voluntary soldier who joined the Nazis during WWII, did not take it easy on Arnold. He said that if he ever did something bad, his father “would not spare the rod.”
He also grew up in a very poor household, having said that one of the best memories from his childhood was the day his parents bought a refrigerator. Despite a bad relationship with his father, Arnold was a good student, who played lots of sports. He began his professional career at the age of 17.
After wanting to move to the US since he was ten years old, his dream finally came true and he made the move at the age of twenty one, despite still being relatively poor and speaking barely any English.
Moving to the United States, the Austrian native made a name for himself firstly, as a professional body builder in the 1970’s and 80’s as well as being one of the most sought after actors of the 90’s. Schwarzenegger took a film hiatus and took up politics and became the Governor of California from 2003 to 2011.
Sophia Loren on the set of Boccacio, 1962.
Sophia Loren, the Italian born beauty who began acting in 1950, at 15-years old. She managed to go from playing bit parts to reaching international stardom by 1958. She won the hearts of Americans and was the first Italian actress to receive an Academy Award for Best Actress, for a non-English-language role.
Pictured here is the ever graceful Sophia Loren on the set of "Boccaccio", a lighthearted Italian comedy that aired in the 70s. The actress won an Oscar for her role in "Two Women" in 1960, she played a mother trying to protect her daughter in World War II.
Gilda Radner and Bill Murray at Studio 54
Not many people can easily recognize this ghostbuster busting a move on the Studio 54 dance floor, right next to one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, Gilda Radner. But here it is. At the time this photo was taken, Bill Murray had already starred in a few extremely popular movies--Ghostbusters would be filmed just a few years later.
Like Radner, Murray gained fame on Saturday Night Live. It was the 'must see' show of the time and he was originally hired as a writer but soon made his way into the cast. It's amazing how many Hollywood legends danced between these walls considering it was only operational for 33 months.
Celebrities like Bill Murray, Michael Jackson, Woody Allen, Rod Stewart, Olivia Newton-John, and Andy Warhol among countless others, all helped build the club's glamorous reputation. Now it's iconic, Studio 54, just in reputation alone, has yet to be topped.
Mark Hamill, Star Wars Premiere Event, 1977
Pictured here is actor Mark Hamill at one of the many Premiere events that took place across the U.S. back in 1977. While he is best known for playing Luke Skywalker in the 70’s Star Wars Series, Hamill had another long-standing portrayal of the Joker from the DC Comics Universe.
Clint Eastwood skateboarding in Rome in the 1960’s
Clint Eastwood is another actor who came from a wealthy background; each of his parents had their own car. Despite the wealth of his family, he did poorly at school and as a result, was held back; rumor has it that he never actually graduated from high school at all.
Clint was spotted in Hollywood quite a few times and was often introduced to some very big names because of his appearance. He was said to be an amateur actor and was encouraged to take classes to help him out. Despite the classes, he was rejected many a time by many casting agents.
Between the years of 1954 and the 1960s, Clint had minor roles in numerous films and TV shows. Often times, his roles were uncredited. It wasn’t until the 70’s that his work finally received major and positive reviews. He had another turning point in 1971 when he made his debut as a director for the film Play Misty for Me; the New York Post praised his performance and skills as a director.
Leon Spinks getting sloppy
We'd expect heavyweight champions to have moves in the ring, but Leon Spinks proved that he had them on the dance floor as well. Here he's seen busting a move at Studio 54. Maybe it was because he defeated the one and only Muhammad Ali.
Spinks was allegedly staggering drunk and on a glee spree after taking the heavyweight title. Although his form of happiness translated into something more akin to chaos. He was known to lack impulse control back then and a place where the drinks kept pouring and giant bottles of Quaaludes got passed around... it's no wonder.
Bill Gates and his bike, 1970’s
William Henry Gates II didn’t know it when he was young, but he would forever change the way technology was seen in the world and become one of the richest men to ever live on planet Earth.
Bill Story did not begin as many billionaire stories do. His parents were very wealthy; his father was a lawyer and his mother was a director for First Interstate Banc System. When he was thirteen, he attended a private prep school, where his love for programming emerged.
In 1970, Bill and three of his classmates were hired to write payroll programs for Information Sciences Inc. He went on to write computer programs for his school, to help schedule students in classes. Gates would go on to drop out of school after two years, a habit we’ve noticed among many millionaires and billionaires.
After he had taken a leave of absence from Harvard, Gates would then take the steps necessary to begin his own company with his partner in crime, Paul Allen. Because of Microsoft’s initial success, Bill never returned to Harvard to finish his degree.
Brad Pitt, Freshman Yearbook photo 1979
Jack Nicholson and Roman Polanski on vacation. (1975)
Pictured here are Jack Nicholson and Roman Polanski on vacation together in Gstaad back in 1975. The actor and director drew up a friendship way before Nicholson’s 1974 role in the Polanski’s thriller Chinatown. The two also remained friends though the murder of Polanski’s wife Sharon Tate which took place on August 9, 1969, when Tate was 8-months pregnant. Nicholson stood by his long-time friend and even regularly attended the murder trial to show his support.
It was at Nicholson's house just three years after this photo was taken, that Roman Polanski was accused of having drugged and sexually assaulted a thirteen-year-old girl. He admitted to having intercourse with her but denied drugging her or forcing himself on her. He fled the United States before sentencing back in 1978 and hasn't stepped foot on American soil since. He is still wanted by the US authorities.
Michael Jackson and Steven Tyler, 1977.
Pictured here are the 'King of Pop' Michael Jackson alongside lead singer of the iconic rock band Aerosmith, Steven Tyler. The two celebs are enjoying a night out at Studio 54 world famous nightclub and discotheque in located in New York in 1977.
This was taken during the club's first year in business, already owners Rubell and Ian Schrager had the place swarming with celebrities. Studio 54 was known for wild antics and breaking down social taboos. So naturally, everyone else wanted inside too. Studio 54 became one of the most exclusive clubs in New York and soon the most famous in the world.
Pictured here is actress and singer Cybill Shepherd who became a fashion icon after being named “Miss Teenage Memphis” during the Memphis Model of the Year contest back in 1966. Soon after, she went on to become a spokesperson for L’Oreal and graced the covers of many popular magazines.
The American model and singer, turned actress, landed some of her better known roles throughout the 1970s. In 1971 she was cast as Jacy in The Last Picture Show, she played Kelly in The Heartbreak Kid in 1972, and then she got the role of Betsy in Taxi Driver in 1976. From there her popularity continued to bloom, she spent a chunk of the 1980s as Maddie Hayes in the popular show Moonlighting, before landing her own show Cybill which ran from 1995–1998.
The Runaways met Robert Plant, 1970’s
The Runaways' popularity was relatively brief, they only recorded and performed during the second half of the 1970s. In that time the group released four studio albums and one live set. While members Lita Ford and Joan Jett went on to successful solo careers, aside from a few hits, the Runaways never became that big in the United States. Among their best-known songs are "Cherry Bomb", "Hollywood", "Queens of Noise" and their cover of the Velvet Underground’s "Rock & Roll".
Normally, children weren't allowed at Studio 54... unless of course, they were famous, then exceptions were made on special occasions. Pictured here are dancer Rudolf Nureyev and Ricky Schroder, a child star who had debuted on The Champ. He went on to star on the sitcom Silver Spoons and has continued acting as an adult. Now billed as Rick Schroder, his more notable works are that of the western miniseries Lonesome Dove (1989), and the crime-drama series NYPD Blue. He's also written and directed over the years.
Johnny Cash, Folsom Prison, 1968
Cash began performing a series of prison concerts starting with Folsom Prison. The concert was recorded and later turned into a live album. This experience seated itself as his 27th album. It received the number one slot on country music charts and was certified a platinum. Good on you Johnny!
As his career was taking off so did his partying, Before long Cash was drinking heavily and addicted to amphetamines and barbiturates. And while many said he was spiraling, he still managed to stay on top of his work, delivering massive hits like "Ring of Fire" due to his frenetic creativity.
Blondie circa 1975
Pictured here is Debbie Harry, better known as “Blondie,” on stage back in the 1970s. The iconic Punk new wave singer is also considered the first female rapper to chart at number one in the United States because of her work on "Rapture". She’s also had over 60 film roles and numerous television appearances.
The group was founded by singer Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein but also comprised of members Clem Burke, Gary Valentine, and Jimmy Destri. They were pioneers of the punk scene but were noted for their eclectic mix of musical styles. They incorporated elements of disco, pop, and reggae. For this, they are credited with introducing mainstream American listeners to alternative elements of Rock and Roll in the late 1970’s. Blondie has sold 40 million records worldwide, is still active, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006.
Alain Delon and Romy Schneider, 1962
This pair met on the set of the film “Christine” in 1958 and got engaged in March 1959; however, they separated in 1963. The reason for their split was Delon's affair with German actress, singer and model Nico coming to light. Apparently, the two had been seeing each other long enough for Delon to father her son, Christian Aaron who was born on August 11, 1962.
Schneider left Delon and went on to marry Harry Meyen in 1966-1975 and then Daniel Biasini in 1975-1981. I guess third time is the charm for love. They had a daughter together, Sarah Magdalena, who grew up to become an actress.
Joi Lansing from the 1950s.
David Bowie, 1976.
David Bowie poses for photographer Andrew Kent in Paris outside L’Hotel in the left bank in 1976, seen here holding a cigarette and wearing a blue denim flared jeans which were very on trend at the time.
The singer, songwriter, and actor was a leading figure in music for over five decades. His innovative work and mind-blowing visual presentation have been widely acclaimed by critics and other musicians. Both his music and his stagecraft have significantly influenced popular music. He has an estimated 140 million album sales worldwide, making him one of the world's best-selling musicians.
He was awarded nine Platinum album certifications, eleven gold, and eight silver, and released eleven number-one albums in the United Kingdom. In the United States, he received five platinum and nine gold certifications. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.
The Monkees monkeying around at the Art Institute of Chicago in the 1960s
The American rock and pop band was formed and became active from 1965 until 1971 and consisted of members Peter Tork, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones and Michael Nesmith.
The band was formed in Los Angeles by Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider specifically for the American television series "The Monkees." The show aired from 1966 to 1968, during the early stages of which, "the Monkees" were given very limited time in the recording studio.
The amount of time required to film the television series was to blame for that, but they eventually fought (and won) more creative control. When the show was canceled the band decided to continue recording music through 1971.
There was just no stopping Disco Fever
When people talk about how popular this club was, they were in no way exaggerating. Getting in was on many people's bucket list. As you can see, 1979 had no time for broken legs, it was all about getting out and shaking your groove thang on the dance floor. Studio 54 was literally the place where "anything goes." Just slather those casts in glue and toss some glitter on it!
As long as you had something to bring to the table it didn't to the club door men what state you were in. You could bring in the tired, the weary, even the sick who should be home in bed... as long as they sparkled, they got in. Those who weren't sparkling, beautiful, or interesting in some way, however, were told to go home and change. In fact, on several occasions, the former owner Rubell was heard rather bluntly telling people, "you're ugly, you're not coming in."
24 yr old Sally Fields
Pictured here is a young Sally Fields posing for a photoshoot back in the 1970s. She would later go on to receive numerous Golden Globe nominations for her performances in films like "Absence of Malice" and "Kiss Me Goodbye." These were followed by her Academy Award win for Best Actress for "Places in the Heart" in 1984.
She's been acting non-stop ever since. "Murphy's Romance," "Steel Magnolias," more recently "Mrs. Doubtfire," "The Amazing Spider-Man" and its sequel. As of 2017, Sally Field has officially reprised her role as Amanda Wingfield in "The Glass Menagerie" on Broadway.
Barbara Streisand in the 1970’s deep in thought
Born in Brooklyn, New York in the 1940’s, Barbara Streisand would grow up to become an amazing singer, songwriter, actress and film maker. Her accolades would include Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, Emmys, Tonys and just about any award you could think of.
At the age of sixteen, and living on her own, Barbara worked extremely hard to make a name for herself. At the time, it was said that she wasn’t taken very seriously because of her lack of mature feminine features, a setback which did not stop her.
Although she found herself at one point, not having a permanent home and sleeping with friends that would soon change. She won a singing competition with the encouragement of her then boyfriend, which led to her residency as a singer at the Bon Soir Nightclub. Even as a prominent singer in the industry, she never lost hope of one day becoming a professional actress.
She continued to work hard and had a heavily successful career during the 70’s and made headlines for her chart toppers and many soundtracks which graced the entertainment scene alongside the most popular shows and movies.
Farrah Fawcett, beauty and muscle in one awesome pic!
Farrah Fawcett was one of the most successful actresses of her time. Strutting through the 1970s as one of Charlie’s Angels not only cemented her sex-icon status in Hollywood history, but it also earned her four Emmys and six Golden Globe Awards nominations. And her iconic swimsuit poster became the best-selling pin-up poster in history!
Martin Luther King meets Malcolm X (1964)
Pictured here is an encounter between Martin Luther King and Malcolm X on March 26, 1964. Both men were heavily involved in social and activism, these two minds would definitely have an interesting meeting, covering topics which predominantly affected African Americans at the time.
They both preached of accomplishing wide-spread peace, unity, and equal opportunities for all people but initially, they had different thoughts on how to achieve the same outcome.
In the last years of their lives, they were almost moving towards each other in mentality. Malcolm X, once viewed as an angry black separatist was moderating from his earlier position and becoming more like King. Whereas King was reportedly becoming more militant; preaching black pride, the need for a restructuring of America, and he even came out against the Vietnam War.
King was a political revolutionary where Malcolm X, on the other hand, was more of a cultural revolutionary. Perhaps they would have met somewhere in the middle.
Who says former First Ladies can't boogie?
Studio 54's doors were open not just to the young and famous, people of all age groups (over the age of 21) were welcome. Of course, they weren't immune to the club's standards, they still had to be influential in some way.
Pictured here are dancer and choreographer Martha Graham, former First Lady of the United States Betty Ford, and Studio 54 co-owner Steve Rubell. Apparently, Jack wasn't the only Ford to have paid a visit or two, to the popular nightclub. His mother Betty Ford has also gotten all dolled up to see what all the fuss was about.
Frank Sinatra lighting John F. Kennedy’s cigarette, 1961
Frank Sinatra and President JFK were both very influential men for the era. So, it’s no real shock that the two had overlapping social circles and wound up becoming friends. Sinatra even worked on Kennedy's campaign, he spearheaded a concert featuring big names like Ella Fitzgerald, Gene Kelly, and Nat King Cole. And it was Sinatra who introduced President Kennedy to Marilyn Monroe.
Unfortunately, their “bromance” didn’t last. No one knows for sure what their falling out was over but many have speculated that each man was jealous of the other. There was a joke passed around at the time which may have had more truth to it than people realized,"Kennedy wanted to be Sinatra and Sinatra wanted to be Kennedy.”
Dolly Parton petting a horse at Studio 54
Some very strange things happened behind the club's doors... some strange things happened right outside the door as well.
Pictured here is just one of the many odd occurrences the notorious club was captured here, with country singer, record producer, and actress Dolly Parton petting a seemingly random horse at the disco club.
This isn't the only photo of a celeb with a white stallion in the club. The horse was Bianca Jaggers ride through the club for her grand entrance to her 30th birthday party.
One of co-owner Steve Rubell's strategy to keep his famous clientele coming back was to lavish them with attention and extravagant gifts.
Star Wars, 1977.
The original cast of Star Wars poses for a picture without their costumes. From left to right Harrison Ford (Hans Solo), David Prowse (Darth Vader) Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia), Kenny Baker (R2-D2) and Mark Hamil (Luke Skywalker).
This was taken during the first film in the George Lucas’s 1977 “Star Wars” trilogy that later launched the franchise that is still churning out films to this day. The original epic space opera (which many will argue is the best) focuses on the Rebel Alliance who aims to destroy the Death Star, under the lead of Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher).
Here’s young Harrison Ford in a kitchen in the late 1970’s
Harrison Ford was only 25 years old when he got the part of Han Solo in Star Wars (1977). It was often said that it was because of his previous work in American Graffiti, that he had gotten the role, but like many other actors, Harrison had to read lines which impressed George Lucas. The movie would go on to become one of the most successful movies of our time solidifying Harrison as a megastar. He then went on to revisit those roles in The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi (1983), Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015).
With each movie, his pay check has sharply increased starting from $10, 000 for the first movie to $20 million and 0.5% revenue for the last. Even though his character was killed off in The Force Awakens, fans wondered if it was possible for Hans to come back and although Harrison said in a recent interview, that he would not be returning to the big screen to star in Episode VIII said to be released in 2017, “Anything is possible in Space”.
Ian Fleming and Sean Connery on the set of the first James Bond film, 1962.
This photograph was taken on the set of the first James Bond movie "Dr. No". It features director Ian Fleming and actor Sean Connery having a conversation in the beautiful filming location of Jamaica.
In "Dr. No", James Bond has to go to Jamaica to investigate the disappearance of a fellow British agent. His search leads him straight to the underground lair of Dr. No, who (in typical Bond villain fashion), is plotting to disrupt an American space launch with a radio beam weapon. This film may have been the first to launch the franchise, but it was not the first book. Casino Royale was the character's debut, it was also author Ian Fleming's first novel.
Barack Obama with his Mother Ann Dunham, 1960's.
Pictured here is a baby Obama. Taken in the 1960s is future President of the United States and his mother, Ann Dunham in the 1960’s. Not only did this adorable youngster grow up to be the 44th President, but he was also the first African-American in office.
Pink Floyd, 1973
Consisting of members Nick Mason, Roger Waters, Richard Wright, Syd Barrett and David Glamour, Pink Floyd is one of the most recognizable rock bands of all time. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. After 15 stellar albums, the band has managed to sell over 250 million records and have cemented themselves as one of the best bands of all time.
Combining psychedelic, experimental music with philosophical lyrics was clearly the recipe to achieving international acclaim. They also distinguished themselves with extended compositions and putting on elaborate live shows. They one of the most commercially successful and widely influential groups in music history.
Robin Williams clowning around outside The Comedy Store, 1978
Pictured here is the legendary comedic genius Robin Williams in 1978. Mork & Mindy was his first big break. This legendary role launched his career and propelled him towards his future greatness. In it, he played the role of "Mork from Ork", a bumbling alien who moves in with an earthling named Mindy. The roomies attempt to maintain a normal household which goes about as well as expected.
Right from the start, Williams was primarily known for his comedic bits and his demeanor was said to be usually quite in sync with his on stage persona. But it seems Williams had long suffered from depression and eventually dementia which resulted in his death by suicide in 2014.
Jackie Kennedy leaving a store of Yves Saint-Laurent in Paris, 1974
The former first lady was married to the 35th President of the United States of America until his assassination in 1963. Jackie-O, as she was later known, eventually married a Greek mogul by the name of Aristotle Onassis in 1968. She is remembered as a champion of the arts and education, whose philanthropic efforts and keen sense of style never went unnoticed.
Long before meeting Kennedy, she was a photographer and a reporter for the Washington Times-Herald. She was fluent in four languages, allowing her to translate and assist Kennedy with speeches during his campaign. She is the one responsible for filling the white house with antiques of historical significance and she also won an Emmy award after showcasing her complete renovation of the White House on CBS. She is also the one responsible for creating the "Camelot" image of the entire Kennedy administration.
Lucie Arnaz (1979)
This photo was taken in March of 1979 and features actress, singer, and producer, Lucie Arnaz dancing the night away at Studio 54. For those who don't know, Lucie's parents are Desi Arnaz and the charming female comedic genius herself, the one and only, Lucille Ball. The successful actress and producer is just one of many famous faces that could often be seen getting down on the infamous dance floor at Studio 54.
Lucie was often spotted chatting up celebs like Liza Minnelli, Bill Boggs, Florence Henderson and her brother Desi Arnaz. She was also on the guest list for Bianca Jagger's notorious Studi 54 birthday celebration– to which she showed up on horseback, and rode through the club.
Before Courtney Love there was Janis Joplin
Steve Mc Queen, the king of cool, smoking while donning his trademarked persols in the 1960’s
The highly sought after actor, Steve McQueen, lived a high-profile lifestyle and was known for his love of racing cars and motorcycles. Once known as the “King of Cool,” actor Steve McQueen rose to fame throughout the counterculture of the 1960s. He was the highest paid actor and the biggest box-office draw of the 1960s and 1970s.
McQueen earned himself an Academy Award nomination for his role in The Sand Pebbles. McQueen's other widely popular films include The Cincinnati Kid, The Thomas Crown Affair, The Getaway, and Papillon. He also has classics like The Magnificent Seven, The Great Escape, and The Towering Inferno on his resume.
Jim Morrison driving his Shelby Mustang in 1969
When the Shelby GT500 was first released car fanatics with money couldn't wait to get behind the wheel of one. It was twice the price of a nice Mustang and only 2,050 were made. Many celebrities bought one: Lee Marvin, Steve McQueen, and notorious Shelby owner, Jim Morrison, of The Doors.
Born James Douglas Morrison, the actor, director, singer-songwriter, was known for his unusual antics and wild lifestyle so a Shelby just screamed his name. So when "Light My Fire" hit #1 on the music charts, in June 1967 Jim celebrated by ordering his very own Shelby Mustang GT500 fastback.
Halloween at Studio 54
Although this look would be considered somewhat normal for those who frequented Studio 54, this party was actually held on the club's first Halloween in 1977.
As one can easily imagine, Halloween at Studio 54 was insane of course. That night's attire consisted of some of the most outlandish ensembles the club had ever seen.
No matter how hedonistic it may have been on a regular night, that was nothing compared to the storied annual Halloween bashes thrown at Studio 54.
John Lennon in Hamburg, 1960.
Pictured here is a young John Lennon in Hamburg Germany on a fairground. The guitarist and co-founder of 'The Beatles', is sitting on top of a truck holding a Capri 325 guitar. This photograph was taken in 1960, back before Beatlemania set in.
The Beatles allegedly honed their performance skills while in Hamburg after having regularly performed at various clubs throughout Northern Germany, during the period from August of 1960 to December 1962. This chapter in the ban's history is also where they began to gain more notoriety as these performances widened their reputation, and eventually led to their first recording.
Jack Nicholson in Five Easy Pieces, 1970.
Pictured here is actor Jack Nicholson faces up to a dog in 1970 staring in Five Easy Pieces directed by Bob Rafelson. The film also stars Karen Black, Susan Anspach, Ralph Waite, and Sally Struthers in supporting roles.
The film follows the life of oil-rig worker Bobby Dupea, who hides his privileged upbringing until hearing his father is dying. He has to go home to see him and takes his waitress girlfriend along with. After four Academy Award nominations and five Golden Globe Awards, the film was preserved by the Library of Congress back in 2000. Star Jack Nicholson went on to become the most nominated male actor in Academy Awards history.
Mick and Bianca Jagger at Studio 54
Pictured here is the other co-founder of the Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger. Next to him was his then-wife Bianca Jagger. The two would end up divorcing each other shortly after this picture was taken.
According to Bianca, she knew the marriage was over about a year into it, though they stayed together for the sake of their daughter, Jade. When Bianca finally did divorce Jagger in 1979, he had already moved on with Bianca’s replacement, supermodel Jerry Hall — whom Jagger had stolen away from fellow pop idol Bryan Ferry.
Sharon Tate looking fine as hell while eating a pear, 1967
Pictured here is American actress and model, Sharn Tate. Her film debut was in 1966 with the occult-themed film Eye of the Devil. Her most memorable performance was Jennifer North in the 1967 cult classic, Valley of the Dolls, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Tate was one of Hollywood's most promising up and comers and on January 20, 1968, she married director/producer Roman Polanski.
Then on August 9, 1969, Tate and four others who were hanging out in the home that she shared with Polanski, were brutally murdered by members of the Manson Family. Even worse, at the time of her death, she was eight-and-a-half months pregnant with the couple's son. She was a beautiful young woman showing great promise in Hollywood and on her way to becoming a mother. Her death and the death of her unborn child was such a tragic loss.
Muhammad Ali aka Cassius Clay trains in a pool at the Sir John Hotel in Miami in 1961
Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., better known as Muhammad Ali was the greatest American boxers of all time. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali started boxing at the age of 12 and won a gold medal in the lightweight division at the 1960s Summer Olympics in Rome by the age of 18.
By the age of 22, he already held multiple professional heavyweight titles. The boxer then converted to Islam and Cassius Clay was no longer. It is also important to note that Ali was a great example for African pride during the 60s Civil Rights Movement.
A few years later, Muhammad refused to be conscripted into the military stating that his religious beliefs went against the US involvement in the Vietnam War. He was arrested for draft evasion and stripped of the boxing titles he earned. His conviction was eventually overturned but by the time it happened, he stopped fighting for a period of four years.
He got back in the game and won the heavyweight championship in 1974. The ‘world’s greatest’ eventually retired from boxing in 1984.
John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy
Nothing makes you long for the past quite like the fact that Donald Trump is now the president of the United States. And no president is more widely remembered with fondness than that of JFK. The Kennedy administration, which is often compared with the legendary Camelot, ran from 1961 until Kennedy’s assassination in November of 1963.
Jackie Kennedy was sitting right alongside her husband on that tragic day in Dallas. When the bullet struck him, blood sprayed all over her (now iconic) pink wool Chanel suit. She kept it on. After the chaos subsided and Lyndon Johnson was sworn in as the new president, Jackie kept the bloody dress on. When asked if she’d like to change she replied,“Oh no, I want them to see what they’ve done to Jack.” The suit is now kept in the National Archives.
On set of Star Wars, 1977.
Director George Lucas looks on as actor Peter Cushing (Grand Moff Tarkin) talks to Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) and an unmasked David Prowse (Darth Vader) listens between takes on the set of Star Wars- A New Hope in 1977.
Cher 1973.
The Goddess of Pop was born in California back in 1946. Cherilyn Sarkisian has had one of the longest and most successful careers in the music industry; a career which has spanned more than fifty four years and is still going. She is also an actress, author, producer and philanthropist.
Having come from a divorced family and a mother who had to work as a waitress and actress to support herself and her child, Cher did amazingly well for herself. She is very well-known for sense of style, her distinctive voice and her take-no-crap attitude. She is also known for being versatile, an LGBT supporter and an incredible performer.
Apart from having one of the most successful tours in the world, she has sold over 100 million records around the world. Also, Cher has won an Academy Award, Billboard Music Awards, an Emmy, numerous Golden Globe awards, a Grammy and she’s BAFTA and AMA nominated. Cher has been honored on numerous occasions for her humanitarian, charity and philanthropic work. This year, she will be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Dovima and Jean Patchett at Madison Square, 1958
These two models were a pair of the most famous of their time. Dovima being discovered in 1949 and Patchett the year before, both graced the coveted covers of Vogue very early in their modeling careers. They both would retire in 1964 and 1963 respectively and go on to live generally quiet lives.
Patchett married Yale-educated banker, Louis Auer in 1951. She enjoyed cooking for her husband (and herself) so much that she refused to work before 10 am or after 4:30 pm. So for her, retirement meant there was more time for basking in domestic bliss.
Dovima gave birth to a daughter named Allison on July 14, 1958, and she found herself moving to Florida to be near her parents in the 1970s.
Pope Francis being ordained to the priesthood, 1969.
A young, Argentine Pope Francis is pictured here. It was 1969 as he was just being ordained to the priesthood. From this day, he continued to flourish in his calling and would later go on to become the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church on March 13, 2013.
(1976) David Bowie on the set of The Man Who Fell to Earth.
Singer, songwriter and actor, Bowie’s first feature film was “The Man Who Fell to Earth” in which he played an alien who came to Earth in search of water, in order to save his home planet. Bowie’s performance and the production quality of this far-out film were praised.
The film was released in 1976 and was followed by even more commercial success with the release of the first of Bowie's three collaborative works with Brian Eno. The electronic-inflected album "Low"(1977), along with "Heroes" (1977) and "Lodger" (1979) would come to be known as the "Berlin Trilogy". Each album reached the top five in the UK.
Before iTunes there were Record Stores
Paul Newman and Clint Eastwood, 1972.
Martin Luther King, Jr with his father and son. Circa 1960s
This photograph was taken by photographer Richard Avedon in Atlanta back in 1963. It features three generations of not just Kings, but Martin Luther King's. That’s right, three of them. The famed civil rights movement activist Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. His father, Martin Luther King senior and then his adorable son, named after the two great men before him, Martin Luther King III.
Freddie Mercury and David Johansen
Pictured here is one of the most legendary rock stars to ever live, the former lead vocalist of Queen, Freddie Mercury. Joining him in the picture is fellow singer and songwriter David Johansen.
Freddie Mercury was best known for his overly flamboyant stage persona and four-octave vocal range. Mercury is credited with writing numerous hits for Queen, including "Bohemian Rhapsody", "Killer Queen", "Somebody to Love", "Don't Stop Me Now", "Crazy Little Thing Called Love", and "We Are the Champions".
Mercury also He led his own solo career while still performing with Queen, and teamed with other artists to produce additional works on the side. Busy man!
Jim Morrison by a Diego Rivera mural. Mexico, 1969.
Known as the frontman of the legendary rock group the Doors, Morrison is regarded as one of the most peculiar and questionable performers of his era. His personal life was shrouded with mystery and confusion due to his involvement with multiple partners. Morrison’s death was also as confusing as his cause of death was not initially identified.
Interestingly enough, Morrison allegedly told his band mates back in 1966, before even signing a record contract with Elektra, that he would fake his death in order to increase their notoriety. And as predicted, record sales skyrocketed after his death. Not only was his cause of death inconclusive, but he also became a member of the infamous 27 club. It was later reported that Morrison once said he'd become a member of the club one day, telling friends at a bar “you’re drinking with number three”.
A young Bryan Cranston and his dog (1970)
Known for his portrayal of Walter White in the widely acclaimed drama series “Breaking Bad”, Cranston is also recognized a voice actor with roles in Power Rangers, Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar 3. Cranston has also received wide recognition by winning Prime Time Emmys, Tony Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Cranston produced an instructional DVD called KidSmartz, which teaches families how to stay safe from child abductors and Internet predators. Half the proceeds are donated to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
Cranston's performance in HBO's adaptation of the play "All the Way" garnered him critical praise and eight Primetime Emmy Award nominations and a Television Critics Choice Award nomination. Cranston's memoir, "A Life in Parts" was published in October of 2016, and quickly found itself on the New York Times bestseller list.
Elton John, high at Studio 54
Can you guess who this is? You're right, it's Elton John. The British singer liked to visit the club whenever he was in town. This is one of his many appearances at Studio 54. Although he's looking rather 'subdued' by what was no doubt a cocktail of many things, the dance floor around him was still packed with disco dancing club goers.
Elton John long-ago revealed he was perpetually "wasted" for a big portion of his life. This photograph demonstrates one of those times. He wrote in his memoirs, "I was consumed by cocaine, booze, and who knows what else. I apparently never got the memo that the Me generation had ended."
Tracy Reed being made up for the film Dr. Strangelove, 1964.
English actress Tracy Reed getting her makeup done on the set of Dr. Strangelove, a satirical film about the Cold War politics and nuclear attacks, directed by Stanley Kubrick in 1964.
This film is essentially about what could happen if the wrong person pushes the wrong button. In it, U.S. Air Force General Jack Ripper goes insane and becomes convinced the communists are somehow polluting the “precious bodily fluids” of the American people so he sends a bomber wing on a mission to destroy the U.S.S.R.
Robin Williams as a mime in Central Park, 1974.
This young mime clowning around in the park back in 1974, went on to become a legendary comedic genius. As this picture demonstrates, Williams made it a point to master comedy in all its forms very early on. Whether it be dark comedy, slapstick, standup, improv, film work, television, sketch comedy…. He even mastered humor for children’s entertainment. Williams did it all.
18 year old Michael Jordan, 1982
Born in 1963 Jordan was a member of the Tar Heels’ national Championship Team. He went on to win his first NBA Championship in 1991 with the Chicago Bulls in 1984 and second and third in ’92 and ’93 respectively. He is regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time.
At 18 years old, Michael had already made quite the mark at his high school. When he was a sophomore, he tried out for the varsity team and failed, because he was too short (5’11). Determined to prove himself, he became the star of his school’s junior varsity team.
That summer, he also had a four-inch growth spurt and trained his butt off to be able to make the team. He did, and averaged around 20 points per game during his last two seasons on the team. He was even chosen to play on the McDonald’s All-American Team as a senior. Michael got the attention of many college scouts including Duke, Syracuse and North Carolina.
He chose North Carolina and began his basketball scholarship at the school, where studied cultural geography.
When Doctors would make house calls (1950s)
Tony Curtis and his wife Leslie
Despite all the rumored debauchery that took place in the club, Studio 54 was also a place for couples. Pictured here is actor and star of the Houdini and Spartacus movies, Tony Curtis and his wife Leslie. Fun fact: He is the father of actress Jamie Lee Curtis.
Other famous couples who have gone out on dates at this legendary hot spot are Jack Haley Jr. and wife Liza Minnelli, Keith Richards and his wife Patti Hanson, as well as now United States President Donald Trump with Ivana Trump on his arm. Mick and (now ex-wife) Bianca Jagger also used to frequent the club. Later Mick Jagger would return with his next future wife, model Jerri Hall.
Jimi Hendrix in an Axis Bold as Love Christmas advertisement, 1967.
Pictured here is Rock-legend Jimi Hendrix all decked out as Father Christmas while holding up his LP: Axis Bold As Love. This picture was taken during the Christmas season of 1967, when Hendrix was promoting the release of his new album. Two years later, Hendrix would go on to make rock n’ roll history at Woodstock in 1969.
Tragically, on September 18, 1970, Hendrix swallowed a handful of sleeping pills and never woke up. The overdose was accidental, Jimi had been drinking and habitually popped pills with little regard to instructions. He didn’t realize half a Vesparax was enough to get eight hours sleep and he took about 18 times the recommended dosage. He then choked to death on his own vomit. It was a reckless mistake that killed him at 27 years and 295 days old, he almost escaped the curse.
President Richard Nixon bowling, early 1970s.
Richard Nixon may be best remembered for the Watergate scandal and as being the only President forced to resign from office, but apparently he also really like bowling. He was so into it, that he added his own secret one-lane bowling alley in the White House basement back in 1969.
So pictured here is the one and only 37th President of the United States, Richard Nixon bowling in the Executive Office building at the White House in 1970s. After Nixon resigned from his post as after the Watergate Scandal his bowling alley remained. It's undergone some pretty impressive upgrades over the years but it's still there for any U.S. President to cut loose on.
Before M. Night Shyamalan there was Alfred Hitchcock
Director M. Night Shyamalan is heavily influenced by Hitchcock as can be seen in his use of symbolism, twist-endings, and his tendency to appear in his own films. However, as Shyamalan’s career went on, his “twists” became less impactful and more predictable. Alfred Hitchcock invented the techniques many filmmakers use today. Hitchcock pioneered the suspense and thriller genres, no one can compare to the "Master of Suspense".
Oddly enough, Hitchcock never won a "Best Director Oscar" Award in his lifetime... even though he is now widely considered one of the greatest directors of all time. Although his contributions to cinema did not go unnoticed, he'd received nominations and won other awards. Perhaps the coolest honor bestowed on him was when he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth just a few months before his death.
Kids on their way to Woodstock, August 1969
Woodstock was jam-packed with free-loving folk who just wanted to party for days on end. Apparently, it would have been even bigger than it was, but traffic was so bad people gave up and turned around. An estimated one million people went home. Not only was traffic too thick for partygoers, it was also impossible for medical responders to get through. This man was needed medical attention but was unable to get it.
This legendary event was held in 1969 and was one of the most iconic moments in concert history. The concert ran four days and comprised of the era’s most famous, influential and eccentric performers such as Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Santana, and Country Joe Mc Donald. Held on a farm in New York, the turnout surpassed what was estimated by the organizers, and is still down in history as one of the most groovy times.
Arnold Palmer, 1962.
Pictured here is Arnold Palmer in 1962 with a cigarette. Mr.Palmer won the 1962 Masters Tournament and is generally regarded as one of the greatest and most charismatic golf players in the sport's history. Starting back in 1955, Palmer began winning numerous events on both the PGA Tour and the PGA Tour Champions. He soon earned the nickname "The King." Palmer was one of the first superstars of the sport's television age, which began back in the 1950s. Not only is he known for his golfing prowess but also for the tasty half ice tea half lemonade drink that was named after him.
The last photo that was ever taken of Charlie Chaplin. (1977)
Known for his unmistakable mustache, Chaplin was a revolutionary actor and filmmaker who specialized in silent films. With a career that spanned over 70 years, his movies covered most of the genres available at the time.
In 1919, Chaplin co-founded the (still successful) film distribution company United Artists. This gave him complete control over his films. From there Chaplin was able to write, direct, produce, and star in his films. He even edited and composed the music for most of his films.
Chaplin was known for being a perfectionist and once he had financial independence, he was able to indulge himself and spend years on a project if need be. He had a hand in everything, from the early stages of development into the actual production, post-production, and distribution of a picture.
Pam Grier aka Foxy Brown 1970s
Grier starred in a string of “blaxploitation” films back in the 1970s and was the first real female action star. Playing roles like “Foxy Brown,” “Sheba Shayne,” and “Jackie Brown” earned her the rating of second greatest female action heroine in film history.
Before games on the iPhone there was Cootie (1960s)
The Beatles ( with Ringo Starr as their new drummer) was taken at the Cavern Club on August 22, 1962
Brigitte Bardot and Sean Connery, 1968
Brigitte Bardot was a French triple-threat, born in Paris during the 1930’s. She sang, acted and modeled and eventually became one of the best known sex symbols the world would ever know. Early on in her life, she wanted to be a dancer, having been enrolled in ballet classes.
She would eventually give it up to become and actress at the young age of 16. By 1957, she was known around the world for appearing in the film ‘And God Created Woman’. She went on to star in several more French films, and was even nominated for a BAFTA award.
Despite her fame, Brigitte was under fire several times for ‘inciting racial hatred’ and even being reportedly fined five times.
Brigitte met actor Sean Connery while the two filmed the Western movie Shalako. Filmed in Spain, the movie followed Connery’s character on his quest while he saves Brigitte who played a damsel in distress. Despite the two stars being in the film, it was deemed not as successful as other Western films being made in Europe at the time.
Al Pacino and Marlon Brando, 1972
Starring as father and son in the crime mob thriller, “The Godfather.” Pacino and Brando cemented themselves in the film and entertainment history by representing a culture that was factual, ever-present and infamous. The film itself was the first installment of the Godfather Trilogy which grossed over $570 million in the box office.
Back when Al Pacino was just getting his feet wet in the world of Hollywood, he was cast in the role of a heroin addict in the 1971 film The Panic in Needle Park. It was this role that caught the attention of director Francis Ford Coppola. Coppola then passed up actors Jack Nicholson, Robert Redford, and Warren Beatty in favor of casing newcomer Al Pacino as Michael Corleone in The Godfather. And just like that, a star was born.
Julius Erving in the 1976 ABA All Star game dunk contest
Erving, known for popularizing slam dunking in basketball, began his professional career in 1968 and set many records in the game. He played for the Virginia Squires, New York Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers. Known as Dr. J., Erving was the sixth-highest scorer in ABA and NBA history with combined 30,026 points.
He was given four MVP awards and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993. Other honors include being named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time team and named one of the 40 most important athletes of all time by Sports Illustrated in 1994. Then, in 2004, he was inducted into the Nassau County Sports Hall of Fame.
Pele and Bobby Moore after Brazil defeated England, 1970
Arguably, two of the world’s most famous sportsmen showing world-class sportsmanship, after Pele’s team beat England for the 1970 World Cup.
This famous moment in sports history was captured just after a thrilling 1-0 defeat to Brazil at the 1970 World Cup. The two football legends Moore and Pelé were showing their mutual respect for each other (and the game) by exchanging shirts.
Pelé later said in an interview: "That photo has gone around the world. I think it was very important for football. We demonstrate that it's a sport. Win or lose, the example, the friendship, you must pass these on to other players to the next generation."
Suzanne Somers at Studio 54, 1978
Pictured here, is the actress, author, singer and spokesperson Suzanne Somers dancing the night away with Canadian entertainer television host and producer, Alan Hamel.
She was best known in the 1970s for her television roles as Chrissy Snow on "Three's Company" and then later as Carol Foster-Lambert on the show "Step by Step". She also appeared in two Playboy cover-feature nude pictorials, in 1980 and 1984. And then became the spokeswoman for the Thighmaster. More recently, she's been on "Dancing with the Stars" and has authored a series of best-selling self-help books.
Before Beyoncé there was Tina Turner (1971)
The similarities between these two fierce, leggy divas are not lost on modern audiences. Both women share an affinity for shimmery ensembles, picture-perfect locks, and the ability to sell out arenas. The pair may have even shared a stage together at the 50th annual Grammy Awards but there is only one Tina Turner. Beyoncé may have learned to emulate her stage presence but Tina Turner was one of the early trailblazers for black female entertainers.
Interestingly enough, Turner also got into Buddhism back in the 1970s, she found peace in the rituals of chanting and still adheres to the teachings of The Soka Gakkai International, (the largest Buddhist organization) today.
According to Turner, "The experience of singing prayers together allows us to deeply connect on an emotional level, a place of love and respect where worldly differences fade."
Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1980
Only five short years after forming their iconic partnership, Gates and Allen had already made tremendous headway in the production of computer software. Both being university dropouts, the pair would go on to be amongst the most influential and richest men in the world.
Gates and Allen met while they were students at Lakeside School Gates. The fellow Basic programmers had a business before launching Microsoft. It was called Traf-O-Data and they had a third partner, Paul Gilbert on the team as well.
According to Allen, he and Gates handled the software side of Traf-O-Data, but the machine itself was built by Gilbert. Paul turned the first 8-bit microprocessor in Seattle into an actual computer. Traf-O-Data was essentially a failure as a company but without the experience, Microsoft may not have happened.
Cher and Gene Simmons.
Craziness was the norm inside the walls of Studio 54. Who would ever think that the queen herself, Cher, would be sharing what looks like a cream puff with none other than The Demon, co-lead singer of "Kiss", Gene Simmons.
Described by Rolling Stone Magazine as an "unprecedented mix of glamorous sophistication and primal hedonism," Studio 54 reigned supreme in the nightclub scene until 33-months of tax evasion caught up to its owners and its doors were closed. A final party that doubled as a prison send-off for club owners Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager, was held in February 1980.
Diana Ross showed up to serenade the two and huge stars like Richard Gere, Jack Nicholson, and Sylvester Stallone all showed up to the send-off. In addition to being the global epicenter of the disco craze, Studio 54 was the most famous nightclub in the whole world.
Brian Cranston and his RV, 1977. Foreshadowing for his star role in the Emmy winning Breaking Bad!
Celebrities getting the VIP tour at Studio 54
Victoria Principal, 1974
Pictured here is actress Victoria Principal best known for her long standing role as Pamela Ewing from 1978 to 1987 in the soap Opera Dallas. But around the time this photograph was taken she had recently finished The Naked Ape (1973) and in promotion of the film, she appeared nude in the September 1973 issue of Playboy.
Later in 1974, she cut off her waist length hair pictured here for an audition. She wanted to look more like the character “Rosa” in the disaster film Earthquake. So she chopped off her hair, dyed it black, and showed up to the audition with an Afro. She won the role.
She went on to a role in Aaron Spelling’s television series, Fantasy Island, and soon after that she landed her role on Dallas which earned her a Golden Globe nomination in 1983. She went on to star in and co-produce various made-for-television movies, in addition to launching her own beauty product line.
Sean Connery signs a coconut for a young Jamaican fan on the set of the Bond film, Dr. No, 1961
Sir Sean Thomas Connery is one of the most decorated and celebrated actors of all time. The Scottish native has won Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards and Golden Globe awards. Sean Connery is most known for being the first ever actor to play the character James Bond on the big screen.
He starred in the first seven James Bond films, from the very first movie, Dr. No, to Diamonds Are Forever. Dr. No was filmed in Jamaica and England; it was adapted from a book of the same name by Ian Fleming.
The budget for the film was extremely low but was a major financial success, despite the reaction being mixed when the movie debuted. Sean Connery’s last appearance as James Bond wasn’t as smooth as the others. Reports say that Sean demanded over $1.5 million to resume the role- which was a lot of money at the time. He was even offered a deal by United Artists, where they promised to back two films (of his choice) if he agreed to be James Bond once more. He accepted.
Philippine Jeepneys roaming the streets of NYC (1960s)
Introduced to the public at the turn of the decade by the hippie movement of the 60s, the jeepneys were the primary mode of transportation in the Philippines. The vehicles were usually brightly painted with various designs and symbols.
These odd little cruisers were originally crafted out of the leftover parts from U.S. military jeeps after World War II. The name came from the obvious combination of jeep with 'knee' because of the knee bumping close proximity its passengers are forced to sit in.
Dr. Seuss working on the main character for his new book, 1957
Theodor Geisel otherwise known Dr. Seuss is the most popular American children’s book author to date. Before his death in 1991, he had sold over 600 million copies and the books have been translated into more the 15 languages. He also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has won 2 Academy Awards, 2 Emmy Awards, a Peabody and the Pulitzer Prize.
Theodor attended Dartmouth where he joined the Dartmouth Jack-O-Lantern (a humor magazine). While there, he was caught drinking alcohol in his room with friends during the Prohibition and as punishment, he had to stop all extracurricular activities. To continue working on the magazine without suspicion from the school, he started using the name Seuss.
After graduation, he was enrolled in a program to obtain his PhD at Oxford University but after meeting Helen Palmer, he returned to America where he began to submit his writing and drawing to different media outlets. After his first nationally published cartoon, he moved to New York where he wrote many pieces. Almost 30 years later, after being asked to write a children’s book by Ellsworth Spaulding, The Cat in the Hat was written. And so the Dr. Seuss era began.
Surfers at Ka'ena Point, O'ahu (1962)
Popular during the winter due to its relatively large and strong waves, Ka’ena Point has been a favorite spot for surfers for decades. This area is known for its flora and fauna which have thrived significantly since local authorities undertook conservation measures.
Aside from the breathtaking view, what's perhaps the most interesting thing about the ledge at Ka’ena Point is that according to local lore, it is a “jumping off” place between two worlds.
They believe it's a portal where spirits can jump off this plane and into the afterlife. In fact, if a spirit fails to make their way to Ka’ena Point, it will be forced to stay here as a ghost and haunt the island until it does.
The Original Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Girl, Cheryl Tiegs (1983)
Tiegs was the first American Supermodel who appeared on the cover of multiple Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and TIME. Her 1978 "Pink Bikini" poster became an iconic image of pop culture.
Tiegs' had her big break at 17-years old after the editorial staff at Glamour saw a Cole's bathing suit ad she did. Tiegs was booked almost immediately on a shoot in Saint Thomas with Ali MacGraw, which resulted in her first Glamour cover. That same year she had also made the covers of Seventeen and Elle. She went on to make the covers of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, among many others over the years.
Young starlets at Studio 54
Studio 54 was also known for its Oscar Parties. Pictured here is a young Brooke Shields and Golden Globe-nominated, Academy Award-nominated and BAFTA-nominated actress and Mariel Hemingway.
Hemingway began acting at age 14 with her breakout role in Lipstick (1976). She is also known for her role in Woody Allen's Manhattan (1979), Personal Best (1982), and Star 80 (1983), as well as in the TV series Civil Wars.
She took a step back in the 1990s to deal with some mental health struggles and then set back to work starring and co-producing videos about yoga and holistic living. She also published a memoir in 2002, “Finding My Balance”, and in 2015, she wrote Out Came the Sun.
The line outside of Studio 54
The area that would soon be known as Studio 54 was formerly a theater. The club, owned by Steve Rubell quickly built up a conflicting reputation for itself. It seemed the population was torn, they either absolutely loved the club or hated it with the fire of a thousand suns. There didn't seem to be much of an in between.
It didn't seem to matter one way or another though, every night without fail, a crowd of people would flock to the doors of the legendary Studio 54 in hopes of getting in. And who could blame them? The place was filled with celebrities who knows who you might run into once through those doors.
The rich, the famous, the infamously insane... drugs, booze, and scantily dressed men and women all awaited them on the other side of those velvet ropes. An aura of exclusivity, an atmosphere that promoted sexual freedom, and open drug use... not only was Studio 54 the biggest nightclub in the world, it created an entire subculture.
Brooke Shields and Calvin Klein at Studio 54
People tend to think that the majority of celebrities who frequented the club were wild musicians. But that certainly was not the case. Although Studio 54 had a huge clientele of musicians, designers and models came as well. Here is model Brooke Shields sitting next to designer Calvin Klein.
Back in the 1980s, Brooke Shields modeled for Calvin Klein, in fact, her provocative ads made some waves for the company. So, as random as it seems, it really wasn't out of the ordinary to see Klein and Shields socializing together.
Even after Shields shifted her focus to acting, the two never stopped hanging out and she always made time to strike a pose for Klein. Even at 52-years old she happily slipped back into her Calvins for yet another sexy ad campaign.
Beasties and a Boom Box (1986)
Formed in 1980, this hip-hop musical trio hailed from New York and comprised of Michael “Mike D” Diamond, Adam “MCA” Yauch and Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz. Their signature prop of the Boombox was introduced and made appearances on the cover of their extremely successful albums.
The Beastie Boys have sold over 26 million records throughout the United States and another 50 million records worldwide. This makes them the largest-selling rap group since the Billboard began recording sales data in the first place (which was in 1991 for those who are interested). In addition to being the best-selling, the Beastie Boys are credited with being one of the longest-lived hip hop acts worldwide.
Raquel Welch, USO Tour 1967
Pictured here is Raquel Welch performing for United States troops deployed to South Vietnam back in 1967. It was the USO Christmas Tour and Welch performed along side Bob Hope in her iconic knitted mini dress.
While Welch was most widely known for “Fantastic Voyage,” it was her 1966 strong, sexy, bikini-wearing character in the film One Million Years B.C. that branded her as one of the most popular sex symbols of the 1960s and 1970s. She is also known for breaking the mold of what it meant to be a sex symbol. She helped change America’s view on sexuality by portraying strong female characters at a time where women in submissive roles were desirable.
The Monkees 1969.
American -British pop rock band The Monkees at a press conference in 1969 for their UK tour. The group also acted in a zany sitcom by the same name The Monkees.
The man who modeled as Uncle Sam poses in front of the iconic poster, 1970
One of the most famous personas ever to come from the United States of America is Uncle Sam. The character in all elements represented the government and was frequently used to inspire the general population. The Uncle Sam persona was also used synonymously with the country as a name in times of war or for other uses of national representation.
Initially, artist James Montgomery Flagg referred to his own image to create the 1916 portrait of Uncle Sam. When asked to update the image for use in World War 2, Flagg hired the man pictured here, Walter Botts. According to Flagg, Botts was chosen over all the other aspiring Uncle Sams, “because he had the longest arms, the longest nose, and the bushiest eyebrows.”
Bruce Lee chillin’ in the 1970’s
Bruce Lee may have been the best Chinese-American actor to have ever existed. He was born in Chinatown, San Francisco in the year and hour of the Dragon, something the Chinese see as a great omen. He was the fourth of five children.
Growing up with an extremely rich mother and an actor for a father certainly helped Lee achieve his dreams. After getting into quite a few fights, despite his affluent background, his parents decided to enroll him into martial arts classes so that he could learn to defend himself.
Despite taking classes, Lee still ended up in numerous fights, including beating up the son of an organized crime boss. Fearing for his safety, his parents sent him away to the US, for a safer life. In 1959, Bruce started teaching martial arts in the United States and even dropped out of school to pursue this career.
It was only after he teamed up with James Lee, a martial artist himself, that Lee was introduced to Ed Parker, who then gave him the exposure he needed and began to change the way Americans saw Asians in the acting world.
Here is yet another picture of Mr. Warhol enjoying himself at Studio 54. He is pictured with English singer Elton John, model and actress Jerry Hall and the late founder and president of Atlantic Records, Ahmet Ertegun.
Hall is best known for her affair with Mick Jagger while he was still married to Bianca. It was Mick's involvement with Hall that caused Bianca Jagger to go through with the divorce proceedings even though she would have preferred to keep the family together for their daughter's sake.
Woman escapes fierce fighting with belongings and children, Vietnam, 1960’s
The raging battle between communist and anti-communist forces in Vietnam during the 1960’s left many villagers displaced. So many were forced to flee their homes to escape the feuds as the fighting parties took over their settlements. Or stay and risk being killed.
Most reacted quickly, grabbing up whatever they could carry and sought refuge deep in the uninhabited jungle. As can be seen here in this photograph, this woman took what little she could and got her children out of there and to safety as fast as she could.
Cross-dressing was common at Studio 54
Cross-dressing was a normal occurrence at Studio 54. In fact, it was expected and encouraged. The more scandalous or out there the people dressed, the more likely they would be chosen to enter its doors.
“It’s like mixing a salad,” co-owner Rubell used to say, “or casting a play. If it gets too straight, then there’s not enough energy in the room. If it gets too gay, then there’s no glamour. We want it to be bisexual. Very, very, very bisexual."
Michael Jackson in his childhood, 1969
Michael Jackson was born on August 29th in 1958 and was the 8th out of the 10 Jackson children. When Michael was just 5 years old, his father thought it would be a good idea to put his 5 sons in a singing group as he believed that they had talent. From a very young age, Michael showed great range and was made the lead singer of the group. After winning a number of talent shows, their father entered them into 2 talent shows, one at Chicago’s Regal Theater and one at Harlem’s Apollo Theater, which they both won. After that, Gladys Knight took the groups record to Motown only to be rejected. After impressing Bobby Taylor, the group was eventually signed to Motown on March 11th 1969. They then moved to Hollywood and after opening for Dianna Ross and the Supremes, , they released their first single “I Want You Back” in October of that year which went straight to number one on the billboards. That was just the beginning of Michael Jackson’s career.
David Attenborough, 1962 - Adventure Quest Under Capricorn (1963)
David Attenborough ventures into the bush to explore and discover unique wild life that exists in the Northern territory of Australia. Here we see David holding a Frill lizard in his hand in Quest under Capricorn in 1963.
Quest under Capricorn was a nature and travel documentary series on the BBC, hosted by David Attenborough. The adventure series a collection of six programs on the Northern Territory of Australia. In which, Attenborough, along with camera man Eugene Carr and sound specialist Bob Saunders spent four months in Northern Australia exploring the terrain, observing the wildlife, and meeting the natives.
Carrie Fisher 1983.
Carrie Fisher was a Hollywood actress and writer most known for playing Princess Leia in the Star Wars series. In the 1970’s she was cast for the role of Princess Leia and starred alongside Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford. The three stars would later become lifelong friends.
She would reprise her role and appear in at least six other Star Wars films. She even appeared on the 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special. She would later admit that she would not have accepted the role had she known that it would have such a major effect on the lives of her parents.
During her lifetime, Carrie struggled with bipolar disorder. The diagnosis caused her to self-medicate and to use prescription pain medication to help her cope. In an interview, she said that the drugs “helped her feel normal”. She also admitted to using cocaine while on the set of the Empire Strikes Back and that she was slowly becoming an addict. One time she overdosed on an extremely bad combination of sleeping pills and prescription meds.
Albert Schweitzer and his kitten Pierrette. [1951]
Born in 1865 Albert Schweitzer was a French-German philosopher and physician. He founded his own hospital at Lambaréné in French Equatorial Africa in 1913 after having obtained his M.D. degree. He and his wife ended up being sent to a French internment camp as prisoners of war from 1917 to 1918. He spent the next six years preaching in his old church, giving lectures, writing, and taking medical courses. Schweitzer returned to Lambaréné in 1924 and spent the remainder of his life there (aside from a few short trips here and there).
All his royalties and personal appearance fees (along with donations) allowed him to expand the hospital to seventy buildings. By the early 1960's his hospital could take in over 500 patients at a time. He received numerous honors including the Goethe Prize of Frankfurt and honorary doctorates. He was also awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952 for his work in the area of antidevelopment of nuclear weapons. He was made a member of the Order of Merit by HRH Queen Elizabeth II in 1955. What a groovy dude!
The Beatles during the photoshoot for Abbey Road, 1969
Abbey Road was released September 26, 1969, was the last studio album all four of “The Beatles” participated in. Many think 'Let it be' was the last album they made together before dissolving the band in 1970, but much of that album was actually already recorded before they got started on Abbey Road.
Abbey Road was the eleventh album by the Beatles and was certified 12 times platinum in 2001 and may be one of the band’s bestselling albums.
Dean Martin and Angie Dickinson, 1959
Pictured here are actors Dean Martin and Angie Dickinson in the Western Classic "Rio Bravo". The film also starred Western veteran John Wayne, Ricky Nelson, Walter Brennan, and Ward Bond. The story centers around the sheriff of Rio Bravo, Texas, who ends up having to arrest the brother of a very powerful local rancher. Because of this, he, a cripple, and a young gunfighter are forced to hold off the rancher's gang.
Back in 2014, the Library of Congress deemed the film "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" and selected it for preservation in the National Film Registry. Martin and Dickinson both went on to have extensive acting careers spanning many years after the completion of "Rio Bravo".
Diane von Furstenberg (1970s)
Not only were celebs and socialites on the guest list, royalty came as well. Pictured here is the fashion designer and former Princess, Diane von Furstenberg. She was previously married to Prince Egon of Furstenberg, a member of the German aristocratic family.
She made quite a few appearances to the flashy, overindulgent venue. She attended the party for Egon Von Furstenberg's Book 'The Power Look' on September 25, 1978, and then kept coming back for more because former royalty knows how to party.
It seems Steve Rubell's first rule of partying is completely accurate: 'The key to a good party is filling a room with guests more interesting than you."
He certainly knew how to fill a room and as far as profits go, Rubell was once quoted as saying, "only the Mafia made more money."
Notorious B.I.G just graduated from kindergarten 1970's
Born Christopher George Latore Wallace, Biggie Smalls, as he would come to be known as, was a heavily influential and successful rapper. Although having a relatively short career due to his assassination in 1997 at the age of 27, Wallace was already a force to be reckoned with in the music industry in the genres of hip-hop and gangsta rap.
Sixteen days after his death, the album he'd been working on was released, eerily enough, it was titled "Life After Death". The album shot up to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 charts, gained positive reviews, and was certified Diamond in 2000.
The Beatles, 1961, John, George, Paul, and Pete
Having just formed the year before in 1960, this relatively small rock band had made significant headway by playing in the “underground club scene” and embarking on several mini-tours in and around Britain. They would go on to become one of the biggest rock bands in the world.
"Beatlemania" was the best word to describe the intense fan frenzy that was directed towards this legendary band. Their fans weren’t simply star struck, people (especially teen girls) were obsessed, they went completely mad over the band. The phenomenon began in 1963 and continued well beyond the group’s past the group's break-up in the 1970s.
For The Beatles, it’s not just about their sound. It’s their message and their entire demeanor which is directly related to their era of origin. Perhaps it could be said about all artists that they are a product of their time, but this is especially true for “The Beatles” and it makes replicating them impossible.
Weird Al Yankovic, circa 1970
This singer-songwriter is known for his humorous take on popular lyrics and for his eccentric method of dress. His style and parodies must have started when he was young, just look at his mischievous face.
Ever since his very first comedy song aired back in 1976, Weird Al has sold more than 12 million albums. He has recorded over 150 songs, both parody and original, and he has done over a thousand live performances. As far as awards go, Weird Al's work has earned him four Grammy Awards in addition to another 11 nominations. He has achieved worldwide success but in the United States, he has four gold records and six platinum records.
There will only be one Patrick Swayze...
With boyish good looks and incredible talents on and off the screen, Patrick Swayze was in a league of his own. With classics like Road House, Dirty Dancing, The Outsiders, and Ghost (to name a few) under his belt, he secured his place as a pop culture icon.
His last role was the lead in an A&E TV series, The Beast. Sadly, Swayze was unable to promote the series due to his declining health. Swayze had been battling cancer and was hospitalized with a series of complications from 2009 until his death in 2014.
Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr AKA the Rat Pack,1964
The group morphed a bit throughout the 1960s, this version included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. Marilyn Monroe, Angie Dickinson, Juliet Prowse, Buddy Greco, and Shirley MacLaine. They became referred to as the "Rat Pack Mascots".
The cast of Saturday Night Live, 1976
One of the most iconic comedic shows to date, Saturday Night Live became a huge hit with audiences through the combination of introducing young and budding talent as well as having well-written material that not only captures the audience’s attention but it sure to keep it while stirring up controversy at every turn.
Throughout the decades SNL has remained a tremendous talent farm. With a run spanning over three decades, it’s only natural that SNL is where so many brilliant comedy stars got their start. And with writers like Tina Fey, Adam Sandler, and Eddie Murphy (among many, many other seasoned comedians writing for the show, it’s no wonder SNL is still going strong.
Clint Eastwood, late 1960s.
Seen sitting on top his motorbike in the 1960s is Clint Eastwood, who fashioned the ideal of a western cowboy and lone ranger. His portrayal in Dirty Harry started the loose cannon cop genre.
Kelley, Shatner and Nimoy pretending to shave with their phasors on the set of Star Trek, 1968
Created in 1964 by Gene Roddenberry, the series ran for three seasons and consisted of 79 episodes. While Star Trek wasn't a big hit at the time, it eventually developed a loyal following and became a cult favorite. It continued to grow in popularity, reaching mainstream success after the development of spin off series, an animated series, and the now long-running film franchise, which are still in production today. The newest development is the recently released television series, Star Trek: Discovery on CBS. This marks the first new series on the small screen in twelve years for the franchise.
Grace Jones and Tina Turner
Pictured here are two of the most iconic women in the entertainment industry: model, actress and fashionista Grace Jones and eight-time Grammy Award winner and legend, Tina Turner.
Jones was often seen there, she later wrote in her memoirs that Studio 54 appealed to her sense of outrage. After a strict upbringing, she claimed she was determined to let her inner hedonist rule.
The model wrote, “I was the ultimate specialist in pursuing my insatiable appetites and shameless lusts,” she went on to describe herself, “I was the wildest party animal ever. I pushed myself to the limit and started from there.”
David Bowie Smoking a Cigar With Iggy Pop and Coco Schwab, June 1976
Corinne “Coco” Schwab became Bowie’s personal assistant in 1973 and the two quickly became inseparable. As seen in the photograph, the two were very often pictured together, hanging out with Bowie’s eccentric and famous friends like Iggy Pop. Upon his death in 2016 Schwab received $2 million dollars and shares of Bowie’s company as per his will.
Iggy Pop's solo recording career actually began with two albums that were produced by David Bowie. As Iggy Pop put it: “He resurrected me.” Pop went on to say: “He was more of a benefactor than a friend in a way most people think of friendship. He went a bit out of his way to bestow some good karma on me.”
Marilyn Monroe in the kitchen, 1960s.
Marilyn Monroe is one of the biggest pop-icons in history. Actress, model, sex-icon and mistress to the president of the United States John F. Kennedy. Often cast as a “dumb blonde” she was the embodiment of the 1950's entire attitude towards women and sexuality in general. She was beautiful, stylish, and died far too young and under very suspicious circumstances. Even her death achieved legendary status, as conspiracy theories still surround it decades later.
The kitchen is probably the last place anyone pictures the legendary blonde bombshell and mistress to President JFK. But here she is, looking quite at home in one back in the 1960s. As it turns out, Marilyn loved to cook and did so often. A handwritten, puzzlingly labor intensive recipe for stuffing was found after her death. It consisted of a whopping 20 ingredients, it seems Marilyn was quite the ambitious home chef.
A salesman has his motorized roller skates refueled at a gas station in 1961
Hartford Connecticut in 1961, salesman Mike Dreschler refueling his motorized roller skates at a station. He has a single horsepower air-cooled engine which is strapped to his back and in his hand he holds a clutch, accelerator and engine cut off switch.
Last known image of Jim Morrison, June 1971.
Pictured here are Jim Morrison, lead singer of The Doors and his long time girlfriend Pamela Courson sharing fries at the Hotel-de-Loise in Saint-Le-d’ Essercent. This photo was taken back in 1971, and is one of the last few taken before the singer died that same year at the age of 27.
Jim Morrison’s fame ended up quadrupling after his death in July of 1971. He was found dead in a bathtub by his Pamela Courson. No autopsy was performed but heart failure is listed as the cause of death. Courson stood to inherit Jim’s entire estate but she died of a heroin overdose before seeing a penny of it. She was also 27 years old at the time of her death. This high profile couple and their untimely deaths reinforced the myth of the notorious 27 club for the public. It seemed to only prove that Morrison and all the other icons who died at 27, were somehow fated.
Steve Jobs and the Woz in their garage, 1975
In the beginning, there was Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak tinkering away in their garage. The two engineers pioneered the personal computers industry, co-founding Apple Computer Corporation in 1975. Jobs went on to raise the bar on all personal tech with the successful launch of ipods, iPhones, and the iPad series.
Studio 54 owner Steve Rubell in a sea of celebrities
Pictured here is co-owner of Studio 54, Steve Rubell enjoying yet another night surrounded by celebrities. As can be seen, his guests for this particular night included the billionaire record producer and co-creator of Asylum Records and Geffen Records, David Geffen, alongside the Goddess of Pop herself, Cher back in 1980. Cher was one of the famous faces known to frequent Studio 54. Which is no surprise considering how much she loved dancing while donning elaborate attire and schmoozing with fellow celebrities.
The party was continuously changing. It was said to feel like going to a new place every night– hence the frequent 'regulars' who never seemed to grow tired of returning to the same location so often. The only constant throughout the club was decadence. No matter the theme of the night, the sights, the drugs, the entire club scene was always decadent. Absolutely everything was done in excess.
Elizabeth Taylor 1963.
Actress Elizabeth Taylor dressed up as Cleopatra, in her role as the star of the film Cleopatra. It was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz in 1963.
Elizabeth Taylor was more than just a pretty face, she was emmensly talented onscreen and a force of nature both in love and business.
The actress, businesswoman, and philanthropist was one of the first celebrities to devote themselves to HIV/AIDS activism. She organized the very first AIDS fundraiser and went on to found the National AIDS Research Foundation.
Hitchhiker with his Dog Tripper on US 66, May 1972
Hitchhiking was once a really popular way to travel, so what killed it? According to pop culture expert and media professor Robert Thompson, “The interstate highway system took over as the principal route of long-distance travel, and hitchhiking was forbidden on these well-patrolled throughways.”
“Law enforcement in many communities began taking a less casual approach to hitchhikers.” And finally, he said, “a generation of paranoid horror tales of what can happen if you hitchhike scared the bejesus out of most people who might otherwise have taken up this unique form of ad hoc carpooling.”
John Lennon and Yoko Ono in Rue D'Antibes, Cannes (1971)
Pictured here are John Lennon and Yoko Ono in Rue D Antibes, Cannes back in 1971. Lennon was known for being a member of the legendary British rock band The Beatles. Yoko Ono was known for her work as an independent artist. Ono worked in performance art, film and multimedia, in addition to venturing into singing and songwriting. and peace activist.
The two met back in 1966, worked on several collaborations together. The pair quickly became inseparable resulting in Lennon’s divorce from his first wife, Cynthia Lennon, in order to be with Ono. Once they were married in 1969, they had a child together. In 1970, just a year after Lennon and Ono got married, The Beatles broke up. Since then, many people have speculated over the years as to whether Ono may have played a role in the group’s separation.
Diana Ross playing D.J. at Studio 54
Back in the day groupies weren't the only ones who got into the DJ booth. Here is Diana Ross relaxing near (and almost on) the turntables, singing along to the club's music.
Diana Ross won the hearts of the public in the 1960s, as the lead singer for what became the most successful Motown group in history, “The Supremes”. Following her departure from “The Supremes,” she went on to become one of the most successful solo female singers of all time. Diana Ross is credited with paving the way for future African-American R&B and soul acts to achieve mainstream success.
1968 - Allan Pollock flies his Hawker Hunter under the upper span of Tower Bridge
A show of protest by Allan Pollock in 1968 as he speedily flew his Hawker Hunter fighter jet through London in protest to The High Command deeming that a flypast over the city was inappropriate. Pollock flew fast and low zooming through the city of London and under the Tower Bridge.
This act of rebellion ended up leading to the loss of his air force career. Upon landing, he was arrested and then was retired from the RAF on medical grounds a few months later. He was also denied a court-martial at which he could have presented his case.
Muhammad Ali and Bob Dylan Dec. 8, 1975.
The moment captured here took place backstage at Madison Square Garden, on the night of the Hurricane Benefit concert in December of 1975. Bob Dylan was on his Rolling Thunder Revue Tour which had been split into two parts and included music greats such as Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Ramblin' Jack Elliott and T-Bone Burnett.
The first leg of the tour began on Oct. 30, 1975 at the War Memorial Auditorium in Plymouth, Massachusetts and then ended here with the benefit concert for the imprisoned boxer Rubin "Hurricane" Carter. As can be seen here, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali gifted singer Bob Dylan with a pair of huge, gold boxing glove.
Before event planner theatrics there were at-home birthday parties
Kid’s birthday parties have become nothing more than displays of PTA showmanship. Nowadays it’s completely normal for a 1-year-old to have gourmet catering, a video arcade, pony rides, face painters, and contortionists. None of which they’ll remember or even get to participate in because… they’re only one.
What ever happened to simple birthday parties? Playing ring-toss, pin-the-tail on the donkey, and Twister. Then pigging out on ice cream and mom’s homemade cake because let's face it, they may not be as elaborate as store-bought cakes, but they taste better.
Robert August, Mike Hynson & Bruce Brown when they landed in South Africa, 1963.
Director of Endless Summer Bruce Brown with actor Robert August and Michael Hynson, when they landed in South Africa, holding onto their surf boards. They filmed Endless Summer in 1963, the movie is known as the most influential surf movie ever.
Sigourney Weaver 1967.
Sigourney was born in Manhattan, New York on October 8th 1949 as Susan Alexander Weaver. Given the nickname “the Sci-Fi Queen”, Sigourney first rose to fame when she acted in 1977s Aliens. Since then, she has acted in over 15 sci-fi box office hits.
This seven time Golden Globe nominee grew up in Manhattan, New York to a Tv executive father and an actress mother and attended one of the best girls’ preparatory school in the United States. She began using the name Sigourney after she read the novel The Great Gatsby after a character that she encountered in Chapter 3.
Sigourney was a very tall teenager with a reported height of 5’ 10 ½ inches at 14 years old, she also grew another inch before she was 18. After graduating in the year 1967, when she was still 18, she went to Israel to volunteer for several months on a kibbutz. When she returned to the US, she enrolled at Stanford where she first started getting involved in acting and she then graduated with a B.A.
Potassa de la Fayette in a haze on the dancefloor
Pictured here is the former high fashion model and transvestite Potassa de la Fayette. Potassa was the muse of famed artist Salvador Dali. She was said to have a fantastic presence on the club's dance floor.
As photographer Hasse Persson put it, “She was probably the most famous transvestite in the world at the time and Dalí’s favorite model. As Dalí got older he looked for new, exciting people to use as a model, and she was one of them. She had a fantastic presence on the dancefloor – a person like that would make the evenings sparkle.”
Young Madonna
Here is a young twenty-something year old Madonna chilling on one of Studio 54's couches. At the time, she wasn't a solo artist yet. She was the member of the band Breakfast Club, and later Emmy. Although, according to those around her at the time, she had quite the attitude for someone who wasn't even famous yet.
As former Studio 54 owner put it, "I don’t know when she first became a diva, but it was in her blood.”
He went on to describe one of her less than flattering moments: “She was there one afternoon to do a soundcheck on her song ‘Holiday.’ She was meeting Frankie Crocker, who was the top DJ in the United States. Most performers really wanted to please him. And she was cursing at him because he was late. I found it interesting that was her attitude before she even became famous.”
Debbie Harry, 1975
Though it was with Blondie that she recorded numerous worldwide number one singles with throughout the 1970s and 1980s she also saw success as a solo artist in Europe before reforming Blondie in the late 1990s.
In addition to her music career, Debbie Harry also has a great love for cinema and her acting career currently spans well over sixty film. Not to mention her numerous television appearances.
Young Arnold flexing for these older ladies, 1970
Pictured here is Arnold Schwarzenegger showing off his sizable arms to a couple of elderly women back in the 1970s. He went on to win the title of “Mr. Universe” and was “Mr. Olympia” seven times before taking on politics.
Schwarzenegger had dreamed of leaving Austria and moving to the United States ever since he was ten years old. His dream finally came true at the age of twenty-one. He showed up to New York, poor and barely able to speak English but he was happy to be here and quickly made a name for himself as a professional bodybuilder throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Schwarzenegger then became a highly sought after action star all throughout the 1990s. Before finally taking up politics and becoming the Governor of California from 2003 to 2011.
Sonny and Cher 1965.
After the release of their first album with their hit single, “I Got You, Babe,” back in 1965, Sonny and Cher’s popularity skyrocketed. The couple began making television appearances and even more performances. Here they are just after a live television recording that same year. As can be seen here, the duo was thoroughly enjoying their newfound fame at the time.
After the couple parted ways, Cher went on to have one of the longest and most successful careers in the history of the music industry. So far, her career spans over 50 years, includes multiple award-wins, and work as an author, producer, and philanthropist, Cher really is an inspiration.
Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford visiting Eric Idle in his home, 1978
Pictured here is Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford visiting their friend comedian Eric Idle who became legendary for Monty Python.
Hamill is still best known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars trilogy and he reprised the role in 2015 with Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He’s also voiced characters in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Regular Show, Uncle Grandpa, and Justice League Action. He's worked on The Flash television series and a bunch of video games including Lego Dimensions, Batman Arkham Knight, and Lego Marvel's Avengers.
As for Harrison Ford.. he’s a legend on many levels. Star Wars, Witness, Patriot Games, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, American Graffiti…. Harrison Ford has landed far cooler roles than most throughout his extensive career and he’s still going. Having just finished up with Blade Runner 2049 and yet another Indiana Jones project the future of Ford is looking action packed.
Jack Ford and Alice Cooper
Even politicians and their family members came to the club. Pictured here is Jack Ford, son of Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States. He is enjoying a beer with singer and songwriter, Alice Cooper.
John "Jack" Gardner Ford is the second child and second son of President Ford and Betty Ford. He studied Forestry at Utah State University, and he later co-founded California Infoplace, which is a business that staffs shopping center customer service programs throughout the U.S. He married Juliann Felando in 1989 and they have two sons, Christian Gerald Ford and Jonathan August Ford.
A young Mick Jagger, 1955.
Childhood photo of English singer Mick Jagger holding a guitar in 1955. His charismatic presence would later make him a rock legend as the lead singer of Rolling Stones.
By autumn of 1963, Mick Jagger had left the London School of Economics in order to pursue his promising musical career with the Rolling Stones.
Everything seemed to align, the Stones began writing their own music and were at the forefront of the British Invasion of bands that became popular in the US in 1964. They identified with the rebellious counterculture of the 1960s but had root in blues and early rock, what could be better. It's no wonder they are generally considered to be "The World's Greatest Rock and Roll Band."
Virna Lisi, 1960s
The Italian actress who was known for her striking good looks was born in 1936 and died in 2014. Initially a European actress, she began doing Hollywood films as her career progressed.
It seemed Hollywood producers were in search of the next Marilyn Monroe and Lisi fit the mold.
Her big Hollywood film debut was as a blue-eyed blonde temptress playing opposite of Jack Lemmon in How to Murder Your Wife back in 1965.
She also appeared with Tony Curtis in Not with My Wife, You Don't! in 1966. Before long she was starring alongside Frank Sinatra in the film Assault on a Queen (1966) and the roles just kept coming in. She also garnered quite a bit of attention for a photo of her 'shaving' her face that was on the March 1965 cover of Esquire magazine.
Before virtual reality headsets there was View-Master (1960s)
Yes, virtual reality headsets are awesome, but anyone who grew up with a View-Master undoubtedly spent hours clicking through slide reels, staring in wonder at each image. Technically the View-Master was introduced back in the 1950s. It was used by the United States Army for training personnel. By the 1960s the device became popular as a toy.
The latest version of this old-school toy has become a collaborative effort between Google and Mattel. They teamed to create a new View-Master called the View-Master Virtual Reality Viewer. It is based on virtual reality using smartphones, instead of a cardboard VR platform it uses a mobile app built using its SDK. The content is displayed on the screen which.. the phone is what's inserted into the unit.
Paul Newman at the Cannes Film Festival (1973)
A highly decorated actor, Newman would often be compared to the likes of Steven McQueen for his stellar performances in box office hits such as “The Verdict” 1982, “The Hustler” 1961 and “Exodus” 1960. After officially retiring in 2007, he came back to the big screen, only to lend his voice to projects like the BBC’s documentary entitled “The Meerkats”.
Not that his retirement was quiet before returning to the screen, he was a co-founder of the food company Newman's Own, the profits of which, he donated to charity. He also kept busy racing cars, winning several national championships as a driver in Sports Car Club of America road racing. His race teams also won multiple championships in open-wheel IndyCar racing.
Studio 54 attracted interesting characters
Just because the many club attendees went out of their way to throw together outlandish outfits, doesn't mean those wardrobe choices were glamorous by any means. The club attracted people from all walks of life who also wanted to freely express themselves and sometimes that meant dressing up like one of the Village People after having been attacked by a dog.
Pictured here, is a club-goer wearing what can only be described as a destroyed denim outfit, and with what appears to be a hard hat. Of course, what really pushes this rather intoxicated macho man's look over the edge is his handlebar mustache. Party on man.
Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro, 1970
De Niro's first film was Brian De Palma's The Wedding Party, which was shot in 1963 and released in 1969. It got his face out and helped secure the collaboration with Martin Scorsese, which is what really launched his career. In 1973 he was playing the small-time criminal Johnny Boy in Scorsese’s Mean Streets and by 1974 he landed a pivotal role of young Vito Corleone in the Francis Ford Coppola film The Godfather Part II. His performance earned him his first Academy Award, for Best Supporting Actor. De Niro is still out there acting at an impressive rate, proving he can kill it in any genre.
Freddie Mercury, Jane Seymour, Boy George at Fashion Aid in London, 1985
"Live Aid", or the "Eighties Woodstock" as the concert quickly came to be known as – had made history before it even started. They scheduled over sixty of the most popular stars to rock the stages and they managed to raise over $4 million dollars for the starving and drought-stricken in Africa. There were over 1.5 billion people from across the world watching on television at home.
Rollerena (1970s)
Among the regulars at Studio 54 were Drag Queens of all shapes and sizes. Pictured, is Dame Rollerena, a very famous (at the time) New York City Drag Queen, who was known for skating along the streets in the city.
Born and bred in the hills of Kentucky back in 1948, the boy who became known as Rollerena made his way to New York and after visiting an antique store on Christopher Street, he found his now-signature vintage ’50s hat and a gown.
He went into a bar in his newly acquired ensemble and, according to a tribute website, “the whole place went absolutely wild. A crowd gathered like they were awaiting Glinda landing in Oz.” And just like that, the persona of Rollerena was born on September 16, 1972.
The line at theaters for Star Wars, 1977.
George Lucas’s 1977 film Star Wars was the first in the iconic trilogy that later launched a franchise still turning profits to this day. The original epic space opera focuses on the Rebel Alliance who aims to destroy the Death Star, under the lead of Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher). Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill became household names after their roles in this film.
Pictured here is a line for the blockbuster film which took the world by storm. As can be seen, the patrons of 1977 were just as willing to head to theaters early to secure their spot in a massive line. Patiently fans wait outside the movie theater in anticipation of the eye candy that awaits them on the other side of the velvet ropes.
Animal House, 1978
This American comedy comprised of young and budding actors of the 70’s. This box office hit was based in the fictional American College Scene, directed by Kevin Bacon and featured actors such as John Belushi, Tim Matheson, John Vernon and Verna Bloom.
Now considered a classic, Animal House received pretty mixed reviews from critics upon its initial release. However, Time and Roger Ebert help boost its popularity by proclaiming it one of the year's best. Reviews aside, money talks and Animal House, which cost $2.8 million to make, turned around and grossed over $141 million, making it one of the most profitable movies in history.
Harrison Ford, a carpenter 1970.
A picture of young Harrison Ford in 1970 when he worked as a carpenter before he got his big break as Han Solo in Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977.
Witness, Patriot Games, Indiana Jones, Blade Runner, American Graffiti…. Harrison Ford has landed far cooler roles than most throughout his extensive career and he’s still going. Having just finished up with Blade Runner 2049 and yet another Indiana Jones project, the future of Ford's career continues to look action-packed.
Black Sabbath soundcheck before the gig at Hollywood Bowl, September 15th 1972.
English heavy metal band Black Sabbath rehearsing backstage at the Hollywood Bowl in 1972. Touring for support of their album Volume 4, the band played at the Hollywood Bowl where guitarist Tony Iommi collapsed of exhaustion. Ozzy Osborne was fired from the band in 1979 after long stints of not showing up to rehearsals and being under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Which makes perfect sense, until you realize all the members of Black Sabbath were on drugs and many sessions had to be canceled or stopped early because they were all too stoned to accomplish anything worth releasing.
Keith Richards and Mick Jagger in Saint Tropez (1971)
Pictured here are Keith Richards and Mick Jagger at Jagger's wedding with Bianca Moreno in Saint Tropez back in 1971. Bianca was Jagger's first wife, the two married whilst she was pregnant with their daughter Jade. The wedding itself was a confusing embarrassment, between four different people claiming to be the "best man" and the last minute obstacles the couple faced, it's a wonder the wedding happened when it did at all.
They found out, that under French Law, they needed to have a civil ceremony in the town hall before they could have their church ceremony. The town hall of course, was opened to the public which reporters took full advantage of. The paparazzi invasion was so intense the priest locked the church and Mick had to bang on the doors to be let into his own wedding in front of reporters.
They also found out last minute they had to legally declare "what property they had in common" which wasn't as much as Bianca thought and she threatened to call the wedding off. It was later described as, “the shabbiest free-for-all in the history of both rock and marriage and skin-crawlingly embarrassing for all the key participants.”
Unsurprisingly, the Jagger and Moreno ended up divorcing in 1978, after spending 7-years raising their daughter together.
Commando Cody defending the universe, 1953
Previously portrayed by George Wallace then Judd Holdren, Commando Cody was a superhero series in which the titular character had to try to uncover the cause of climate change before it was too late. The character appeared in “Commando Cody: Sky Marshal of the Universe” 1955 and “Radar Men From the Moon” 1952.
There was going to be another 12-chapter serial titled, "Zombies of the Stratosphere". It was written as a direct sequel to "Radar Men from the Moon", but once they got started, the main character's name was changed from Commando Cody to "Larry Martin".
Kathleen Cleaver and Bobby Seale in 1968.
Summer of 1968 in Oakland California, Black Panther co-founder Bobby Seale (right) and Kathleen Cleaver at a rally to “Free Huey”. As you can tell from the picture, afros were clearly in style back then.
This image was captured in the summer at the 1968 rally to “Free Huey” in Oakland California. Huey Percy Newton was a political activist and co-founder of the Black Panther Party. The “Free Huey Movement” was born when Huey was accused of murdering John Frey, an Oakland Police Officer.
18 Year Old George Harrison in Hamburg, Germany, 1961
George Harrison joined The Beatles in their early years. So early that they weren’t even known as The Beatles yet; they were called the Quarrymen. At the time, Paul McCartney and John Lennon were already members.
George auditioned for the band when he was just 15 years old, and although they were impressed by his skills, John Lennon thought he was just too young to become a member of the group. So instead of making him a full time member, he filled in on the guitar when the group needed him, until he was accepted as a regular member.
At the age of sixteen, George dropped out of school, much to his father’s displeasure, to focus on music. During that time, he played with the Beatles, worked as an electrician and at a local department store.
Harrison and the other members of the Beatles came to Hamburg to perform a series of shows in various clubs within Hamburg. Harrison was deported for being under age before the “tour” was over. John Lennon had to cover for Harrison’s absence during their remaining performances.
Andy Warhol at Studio 54 (1970s)
Pictured here is the man and artist responsible for the creation of pop art, Andy Warhol. He is flocked (as usual) by beautiful models and adoring fans, set on enjoying the atmosphere provided by the infamous Studio 54. Though not on the roster of performers, Warhol was yet another famous frequenter of the club that always seemed to attract an excessive amount of attention.
Taking care of your regulars is just a part of the club and bar-owning business. But for Andy Warhol's 50th birthday in August of 1978, co-owner Steve Rubell went above and beyond the norm, by gifting Warhol a roll of 5,000 free drink tickets in addition to a large silver garbage can that was stuffed with about a $1,000 worth of crisp dollar bills. Warhol said it was the best present he ever received.
Alfred Hitchcock and Alma Reville in St. Moritz (1975)
This iconic duo were pioneers in the silent film era of film and television. The pair often worked on screenplays and movie scripts which they would produce and turn into highly successful productions and adaptations. The pair got married in 1928 and stayed that way until Hitchcock’s death in 1980.
Over the course of his six-decade long career, Hitchcock had directed more than fifty feature films. He remains one of the most influential directors in cinematic history and was even Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to the art form. There is no one who can compare to the "Master of Suspense".
Abbie Hoffman salutes you, 1968
A Jewish social and political activist, speaker and writer, Hoffman was a co-founder of the Youth International Party (1967) which protested for freedom of speech, equality and anti-war ideals between the late 1960s to late 1980s. His controversial stances resulted in his frequent arrests and run-ins with the law. Although, his arrests and problems with authority figures began much earlier than his activism did.
His first arrest was June 3, 1954, he was 17-years-old at the time and was arrested for driving without a license. In his school years, he was often in trouble for fighting and vandalism, and was disrespectful to teachers. He was expelled in his sophomore year for physically assaulting a teacher. Hoffman was an atheist and he wrote a paper declaring that "God could not possibly exist, for if he did, there wouldn't be any suffering in the world." The teacher called him "a Communist punk" and tore the paper up. Hoffman decided to pounce and pound into him until others were able to restrain and remove him from school.
Couple at Woodstock, 1969
Nearly half a million people descended on Woodstock, New York to be a part of the famous music festival. The Hippies pictured here were right at home in the field where music history was made. The event was scheduled to run three days, but ended up lasting four because the hippies simply weren’t finished yet. The festival became a landmark in rock in roll history and it ended up defining an entire generation.
Woodstock was literally jam packed with free loving folk who just wanted to party for days on end. Apparently, it would have been even bigger than it was, but traffic was so bad people gave up and turned around. An estimated one million people went home. Not only was traffic too thick for party goers, it was also impossible for medical responders to get through. This man was needed medical attention, but was unable to get it.
Pink Floyd, Venezia 1989
Playing to a massive crowd at one of their last concerts, Pink Floyd made sure to leave a lasting memory and raise the standard so that other bands would try to emulate them.
When the band arrived in Venice back in 1989, they were met by over 200,000 Italian fans. They ended up performing on a floating platform in the middle of the Venetian lagoon. As can be seen in the photograph above, the crowds worked around St. Mark’s Square, filling in every space they could including in the adjoining Piazzetta, waterfront Riva Degli Schiavoni, with front row seats from boats.
Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek at the original Hard Rock Café, December 1969
The founding members of the rock band formed in 1965 in Los Angeles. The other members (not pictured) included John Densmore and Robby Krieger.
It was just a year after this was taken, out in a bar much like this, that Jim Morrison joked about one day faking his own death to increase record sales. He also went so far as to muse about joining the 27 club, the notorious group of stars who met their untimely demise at the age of 27. As predicted he did become a member of the morbid club and sales soared. Creepily enough his cause of death remains inconclusive, as no autopsy was ever performed.
Kirk Douglas in Saint-Tropez (1975)
The Hollywood centenarian is a director, actor, producer and author. Born in 1916, Douglas has had an active role in film and television since the early 1940s. With his established production company, he has produced many films and has received many awards and nominations for them.
Douglas married twice, he and his first wife Diana Dill, had two sons together: actor Michael Douglas and producer Joel Douglas. He and his second wife, producer Anne Buydens, also had two sons together. Strangely enough another actor, Eric Douglas and another producer, Peter Douglas. Sadly, Eric died from an accidental overdose on prescription drugs and alcohol July 6, 2004.
Bette Midler and the Temptations
Studio 54 also held parties for celebrities fairly often. Whether it be a birthday party an award win or upcoming project, the club loved any reason to celebrate with as many A-listers as possible. In this particular case, the party in question was being held in honor of the Temptations, to celebrate their new contract with Atlantic Records in May 1977. Pictured here is singer and actress Bette Midler, congratulating the Temptations on their achievement.
Six of the Temptations (Edwards, Franklin, Kendricks, Ruffin, Otis Williams and Paul Williams) were all inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. The legendary group went on to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.
Gentleman level 10, Paul Newman, 1963
Paul Leonard Newman was a popular actor who began his career in the early 50’s and went on to win many awards including BAFTA Awards, Academy Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards and the list goes on. He is best known for his performance in the 1986 hit The Color of Money.
Paul went through a lot in his personal life, having been married two times, having five kids and having to live through the death of his son due to a drug overdose.
What many people don’t remember was that not only was the actor colorblind, but he was also a racer, who won several championships, despite his visual impairment. Paul always had an interest in the sport and became an avid racer during the 70s; his last race took place in 2007.
In his later years, Paul was an activist who supported Eugene Mc Carthy and called for the opposition of the Vietnam War. For those two actions, he made President Nixon’s List of Enemies, an informal list which chronicled the President’s biggest political opponents.
NFL legend Joe Namath cutting loose
Even retired athletes came to Studio 54. Here we can see NFL legend Joe Namath, nicknamed Broadway Joe. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame a few years after this visit to the club.
The lore-encrusted club attracted all kinds of people, and it was a time when (while still private) celebrities mingled comfortably with average people.
One partygoer recalled opening night, “I saw Halston standing by himself. I remember Dolly Parton just standing there. You could walk up and talk to them. They were eager. It was before they were jaded– before the publicists came, and the minders.”
Ozzy Osbourne 1974.
Pictured here is a 26-year old Ozzy Osbourne back in 1974 while he was still a member of Black Sabbath. Ozzy was fired from the band in 1979 after long stints of not showing up to rehearsals and being under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Which makes perfect sense, until you realize all the members of Black Sabbath were on drugs and many sessions had to be cancelled or stopped early because they were all too stoned to accomplish anything worth releasing.
Ozzy went on to release Blizzard of Ozz and it was one of the few best selling albums of the 1980s that achieved multi-platinum status (without having a Top 40 single to help it along). He’s had an immensely successful solo career and he’s done reunions with Black Sabbath since the breakup, but he's certainly out-shined his former band mates and became known as the "Godfather of Heavy Metal.”
The Original and Best Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter
Back in the 1970s, Miss World America Lynda Carter scored the role of a lifetime; Wonder Woman. From 1975 to 1979 Carter was the first mainstream female superhero and quickly became a household name. She proved to the public at a time where women were still largely considered ‘delicate’ in nature, that a woman could be tough and that tough could be sexy.
She rocked her own obvious sex appeal combined with her character’s incredible strength and abilities at the same time. From there her fame skyrocketed all the way to pop icon status. Even after her Wonder Woman days were over, she hardly retired her superhero cape. Lynda continued her battle for justice off screen as an advocate for LGBT rights and eventually she also joined efforts in finding the cure for cancer. Today she’s still the same strong, beautiful, actress and philanthropist that she was back in the groovy era.
Early 70's era Elton John doing a piano handstand.
Elton John doing a piano handstand n the early 70s. He is known for winning multiple Grammy awards and his flamboyant superstar personality. Needless to say, he can't-do those tricks anymore.
In his five-decade career, Sir Elton John has sold more than a staggering 300 million records. He has over fifty Top 40 hits, including seven consecutive No. 1 US albums, He is one of the best-selling music artists in the world. He's composed film scores and his music has graced the Broadway stage as well as Royal events, including Princess Diana's funeral.
Robin Williams, high school senior, age 18 in 1969
Robin Williams was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 21st 1951 to Ford executive father, Robert and model mother, Laurie. Robin had two older brothers and was often overshadowed by them. In past interviews, he claimed that his mother was a major influence in him becoming comedian as he tried to make her laugh because he wanted attention from her. When he was 12 years old, they moved to Michigan where they lived in a 40 room farmhouse. While in high school, he was the class president, as well as being a part of the school’s soccer and wrestling team. Robin and his brothers were raised by the helper as their father was often travelling for work and his mother also had a job.
His father took early retirement and moved the whole family Tiburon, California. At the time, Robin was only 16 years old and by the time he graduated from Redwood High School in 1969 and was voted “most likely to not succeed” and the funniest in the class. In that same year, Robin enrolled in school to study political science but later dropped out to pursue acting.
Before Will Farrell There Was Robin Williams (1980)
Neil Young 1972.
Pictured here is Canadian born folk-rock singer Neil Young back in 1972. He released his album Harvest which had Young’s only No.1 single in the U.S called “Heart of Gold”.
Young's distorted electric guitar work, personal lyrics, and signature tenor singing voice have contributed to his being widely considered "Godfather of Grunge." He combined folk, rock, country and various other musical styles to get a sound all his own and often gritty.
This grunge rock pioneer eventually went on to work with Eddie Vedder and his band Pearl Jam in 1995 on the album Mirror Ball. Young also directs and co-directs films under the pseudonym Bernard Shakey.
Robin Williams and his first wife Valerie Velardi
Even the late Robin Williams came to Studio 54. In this picture, Robin is dancing the night away with his then wife Valerie Velardi. At the time, Robin was appearing on an ABC television series.
Valerie Velardi was the first of three wives for comedic actor Robin Williams. She was also the mother of his oldest son, Zachary Pym Williams. Their marriage certainly did not end on a high note, as Williams found himself caught between his wife of nine years and the nanny she hired to help take care of their son. Needless to say, the couple divorced.
Diana Rigg (1965)
The gorgeous smokey eyed beauty was most famous for her role in the 1965 “Avengers” series and was often described as the most desirable woman in the world. Her love life was just as public as her award winning career. Shamelessly dating a much older (married man), and boldly stating she had no desire "to be respectable". Nowadays Diana Rigg can be seen in Game of Thrones, as Olenna Tyrell.
1972 Ali MacGraw looks a lot like Kendall Jenner.
A famous model in her own right, Ali MacGraw also made a name for herself by starring in highly successful films opposite other Hollywood heavyweights such as Kris Kristofferson and Steve McQueen.
In 1969 she gained quite a bit of attention after winning a Golden Globe for "Most Promising Newcomer" after her performance in Goodbye, Columbus. In the 1970s she achieved international fame after her role in Love Story. The role earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress win and an Academy Award nomination.
By 1972 she had only been in three films but was already the top female box office star in the world and had already been honored at Grauman's Chinese Theatre with a hands and footprints ceremony.
Dee Dee Ramone, Hammersmith Odeon, London, 1978
Born Douglas Glenn Colvin, Ramone was the lead singer for the punk rock band the Ramones, which had a career of 22 years and a record number of concert performances. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement award in 2011.
On the night of June 5, 2002, Dee Dee Ramone was found dead by his wife Barbara, in his Hollywood apartment. The autopsy later revealed his cause of death to be a heroin overdose. He had been previously booked the Majestic Ventura Theater for a performance, but they ended up hosting a memorial show in his honor.
Before George Clooney there was Sean Connery
Actor George Clooney, though recently married in 2014, was a long-time ladies man. In fact, he was a bachelor of epic proportions. However, as far as distinguished heartbreakers go none have ever topped James Bond himself, Sean Connery.
Funnily enough, Bond author Ian Fleming was against the idea of Connery playing Bod at first, he wanted Cary Grant (could you even imagine that). But he later admitted that Connery was ‘ideal’ for the role after seeing his performance in Dr. No - and then he went on to adapt future novels to give Bond a Scots background like Connery.
Connery had a certain charm that only seemed to get better with age. Even at 69-years old, he was voted "Sexiest Man of the Century." Sorry, Clooney, no one can out suave Connery.
Hugh Hefner with a real catch, 70s.
This photo was taken in 1970 in Miami, Florida and features Playboy founder Hugh Hefner aboard a boat with with his ex-girlfriend and former Playboy Playmate Barbi Benton. As can be seen they are enjoying a day on the water, fishing with friends.
Hefner had been a copywriter for Esquire, and after being denied a raise in January 1952, he quit and went out to get investors for his own project. He raised $8,000 from 45 different investors to launch Playboy, which was originally going to be called Stag Party.
His very first issue was published in December 1953 and ended up selling over 50,000 copies. It featured a nude of Marilyn Monroe from her 1949 calendar shoot. He never actually met Marilyn, but she helped put Playboy on the map and Hugh bought the crypt next to hers in the Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery for $75,000 back in 1992.
Led Zeppelin, June 1969.
After just having played at the Pop Proms, Led Zeppelin members take a photo backstage at the Royal Albert Hall in 1969. They also released their self-entitled debut album the same year.
The band returned to the venue on January 9, 1970, for what became known as the 'historic show at the Royal Albert Hall'. This time it was professionally filmed and recorded for later release.
After the show, Jimmy Page confessed that he and the whole band were really nervous before going on. It was mostly due to the fact that people like John Lennon, Eric Clapton, and Jeff Beck had requested tickets.
“But it was just like it was at the Albert Hall in the summer,” said Jimmy, “with everyone dancing around the stage. It was a great feeling. What could be better than having everyone clapping and shouting along? It’s indescribable, but it just makes you feel that everything is worthwhile.”
The first ever Mickey mouse club meeting 1955
This incredibly eerie sight is actually the very first Mickey Mouse Club meeting, which was held back in 1955. The Mickey Mouse Club ended up becoming a variety television show featuring a regular but also an ever-changing cast of mostly teen actors. It was actually Walt Disney's second production venture in creating a television series and it featured a newsreel, a cartoon, music and comedy segments.
The Mouseketeer Roll Call was another popular aspect of the show, it consisted of the day's line-up of performers introducing themselves to the audience. It also featured serials, in which teens would face common challenges they'd overcome by employing common sense or through the help of elders. The show's content and the fact that it employed young, relatable talent to star in their shows sparked the national phenomena of club meetings nationwide.
Boys Mimicking Police in London, 1975
Officers of the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) wear standardized uniforms to point out the difference between military and regular service officers. The officers pictured seem to be clad in outfits which consisted of the “bobby” helmets, open-necked tunics, black overcoats, and trousers as well as black boots or shoes.
In addition to the responsibility of enforcing the law in Greater London, Metropolitan Police also has national responsibilities of significance. They take the lead on national counter-terrorism matters. They coordinate and manage the protection of senior members of the British Royal Family, members of The Cabinet, and various other members of the government.
Before Justin Bieber there was Michael Jackson (1960s)
Justin Bieber may have tween girls swooning nowadays but let us not forget who the real king of pop is; Michael Jackson. First as a child performer in"The Jackson Five" with his family. Then in 1971, he moonwalked into a solo career that propelled him into pop icon status.
The Jacksons formed in 1964 first under the name the Jackson Brothers, then eventually The Jackson 5. The founding members were elder brothers Jackie, Tito and Jermaine. Soon younger brothers Marlon and Michael joined in.They did talent shows and club performances before finally entering the professional music scene in 1967.
Rod Stewart and Alana Stewart.
Alana began her acting career in the early 1970s, and her first role was a bit part in Evel Knievel. Later, she appeared in television shows like The Bionic Woman and Fantasy Island. Rod and Alana Stewart married in 1979, and the couple had two children: a daughter, Kimberly, and a son, Sean. But sadly the couple was divorced by 1984.
Star Wars stars with a box of chocolates, 1976.
Pictured here are the stars of Star Wars: A New Hope; Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill all sitting back and sharing a box of chocolates together in 1976.
This was one of several photographs from Carrie Fisher's personal collection that she had published prior to her death in December of 2016. This, along with several others from Carrie's album, was put up for auction by Carrie’s mother Debbie Reynolds. They were listed with a starting price of ‘$200-300’. Sadly, Debbie Reynolds also passed away in December of 2016, just one day after her daughter's death.
1970s Pink Floyd looking savage af
From left to right members of Pink Floyd: Nick Mason, David Gilmour, Roger Waters and Richard Wright pose for a picture in 1973 as their eighth studio album, The Dark Side of the Moon would go on to stay on Billboards top 200 albums for 741 weeks consecutively.
Pink Floyd was originally formed in London, but their progressive and psychedelic music quickly achieved international success. They distinguished themselves from other psychedelic groups of the time with their philosophical lyrics, extended compositions, and elaborate live shows. Not only did they become one of the most commercially successful groups of the era, but also one of the most influential groups in music history.
Jimi Hendrix - February 17, 1967
With a name synonymous with blues and the guitar, Hendrix experienced all the facets of achieving mega stardom, despite only being active in the music business for less than a decade. Hendrix reached great heights, making rock n’ roll history at Woodstock in 1969. Then tragically, on September 18, 1970, He swallowed a handful of sleeping pills and never woke up.
The overdose was accidental, Jimi had been drinking and habitually popped pills with little regard to instructions. He didn’t realize half a Vesparax was enough to get eight hours sleep and he took about 18 times the recommended dosage. He then choked to death on his own vomit. It was a reckless mistake that killed him at 27 years and 295 days old, he almost escaped the curse.
Thomas Byrdsong, Aerospace Engineer at NASA Langley Research Center - 1963
NASA employed many key scientists back in the early days of the space program, but at the Langley Research Center, Thomas Byrdsong served as a pivotal team member to get the USA to the moon.
Byrdsong originally joined NASA's predecessor agency back in 1953, the National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics (NACA). His early experience at NASA included working on the Transonic Dynamics Tunnel and the Landing Loads Track (LLT).
It was from LLT that he transitioned to the Drones for Aerodynamic and Structural Testing program. This was where all the high-risk flight experiments were being conducted (using a ground-controlled, pilotless aircraft). After 39 years of service, Thomas retired from NASA in 1992.
Chuch Berry and Keith Richards at Studio 54
Everyone flocked to Studio 54 when they were in town, actors, writers, musicians from all different genres were able to kick back and have some fun within the walls of this iconic club. Pictured here is legendary rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry having a drink and a few laughs with fellow guitarist and frontman of the "Rolling Stones", Keith Richards.
This particular photo was taken on Feb. 28, 1980, although both men were often spotted at Studio 54. Keith Richards has been spotted at the exclusive nightclub partying with the likes of James Brown, John Belushi, and more often than not, model Patti Hanson–who he ended up marrying on December 18, 1983, and has two children with.
Studio 54 was packed every night
As was widely known, Studio 54's was the official go-to spot for celebrities and socialites to gather while in New York. They could drink, party, dance, and mingle with the most interesting and outlandish people the city had to offer.
Naturally, as word got around that A-listers were inside so everyone else wanted in too. that and the tales of the complete debauchery that was going on inside the club on a regular basis.
Many people wanted to get in to have a chance to meet the rich and famous, but many also wanted in to let loose and express themselves in ways other nightclubs didn't allow. It's because of this, that Studio 54 was always packed to capacity and not everyone could get in– which only added to its allure.
Before cost of living skyrocketed salaries were pretty proportionate
Jimi Hendrix, Woodstock, 1969.
It was in 1966 when Jimi signed with his first manager and landed three songs on the UK top ten hits. Before he knew it, Jimi Hendrix was a household name, landing major events. In 1969 he headlined Woodstock and became the highest paid performer in the world. Pictured here is Hendrix performing at Woodstock in New York, 1969. The festival was attended by approximately 400,000 fans.
The rock legend Jimi Hendrix closed the festival with his famous performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” A rock critic later described this in the New York Post, as 'the single greatest moment of the Sixties'. Sadly heH died about a year after, at the age of 27.
Elizabeth Taylor was fed cake outside Studio 54...look at the pandemonium!
Among some of the wacky things the club-goers (celebrities included) were this. Here it appears that fashion designer Roy Halston is feeding the queen of diamonds herself, Elizabeth Taylor.
Halston arranged a birthday celebration for Elizabeth Taylor at Studio 54, she had a fabulous time. The Rockettes wheeled out an enormous birthday cake that was actually baked in the shape of Elizabeth. She reportedly blew out the candles and then cut off her right breast and gave it to Halston. Halston ate it, and then they waltzed.
Before strip clubs of today there were Burlesque shows (1840s)
Richard Pryor, early 1960’s
What many nowadays fail to realize, is that Pryor's early career was modeled largely on the work on Bill Cosby, which led to success for Pryor but also to comparisons being drawn between the two which Cosby was not too happy about. So, Pryor walked away from the career he'd built with this style of comedy. He did a 180-degree change in style, got back to work, and still saw success, even more so. These changes are what led to him becoming a comedic legend.
LSD hits for $1 at The Powder Ridge Rock Festival, 1970.
The Powder Ridge Festival was supposed to be held in Middlefield, CT back in August of 1970. Unfortunately, some legal issues got in the way and the event to be cancelled. Apparently, a crowd of 30,000 people didn’t get the memo and showed up to the empty would-be venue anyway. There were no musicians, no food, and no plumbing… but there were drugs. LSD hits were being sold for a $1.00 as can be seen in the photo here.
This ingenious salesman of the Woodstock generation took advantage of the restless crowd and their love for exploring alternative mindsets and lifestyles (which can obviously be accomplished rather quickly with hallucinogenic drugs). It was later reported that at least seventy drug dealers opened up shop. It turned into a literal drug market. A volunteer doctor named William Abruzzi later declared the non-concert a "drug crisis," stating that "Woodstock was a pale pot scene. This is a heavy hallucinogens scene."
Studio 54 Hangover
Steve and Ian ended up spending a little under a year in prison. Their sentence ran from February 4th, 1980 to January 30th, 1981. After their release, they opened another nightclub that they named Palladium.
Ian Schrager received quite a surprise in January of 2017 when he was one of 64 people who were all granted pardons from President Obama.
When asked why he applied for a pardon, even though he has served his time and business is going great, he said, “I wanted it for closure. I wanted it for my family.”
He went on to elaborate,“It’s hard to be a good example for your kids when you did something like what I did, and you try to teach your kids to live by the rules and be an upstanding person.”
David Bowie and Cher 1975
Two stars in their own right, Cher and Bowie came together to perform a medley of their own hits as well as that of other well-known magic. The performance was part of Cher’s television show “Cher” which was a spin-off of her previous show “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour” with husband Sonny after they had divorced.
It was one of the most memorable TV appearances of Bowie’s career and one of the greatest moments in variety show history. The talented pair teamed to do what is generally referred to as “the ‘Young Americans’ medley, ” a six-and-a-half-minute combination of a dozen or so pop hits:
‘Young Americans’- David Bowie.
'Song Sung Blue' - Neil Diamond.
'One' - Three Dog Night.
'Da Doo Ron Ron' - Phil Spector / Greenwich / Barry.
'Wedding Bell Blues' - Byro.
'Maybe' - The Chantels.
'Maybe Baby' - Buddy Holly / Petty.
'Day Tripper' - John Lennon / Paul McCartney.
'Blue Moon' - Richard Rodgers / Lorenz Hart.
'Only You (And You Alone)' - Buck Ram / Ande Rand.
'Temptation' - Freed / Broan.
'Ain't No Sunshine' - Bill Withers.
'Young Blood' - Jerry Leiber / Mike Stoller / Doc Pomus.
Young Americans (reprise).
Barack Obama with his mom Ann Dunham, 1985
Born on August 4th 1961 (an only child) to a white American mother (Dunham) and a black Kenyan father (Obama Sr) in Hawaii, Barack grew up in a culturally and ethnically diverse family (European, African and Asian). After four years of being together, his parents would then divorce.
His father married a third time back in Kenya and was said to only visit Obama Jr. once in Hawaii before he was killed in a car accident. Obama’s mother Ann, also met a new man, who she also married. She moved to Indonesia for him bringing Barack along, and they eventually settled in Jakarta.
Barack was sent back to live with his grandparents in Honolulu at the age of 10 and did very well in school. His academic success is often attributed to the training he was given by his step father Lolo Soetoro. His mother and sister remained in Indonesia until Ann got sick and returned to Hawaii. Unfortunately, she lost her battle with ovarian and uterine cancer in 1995, when Obama was thirty four years old.
The club's clientele included celebrities like Andy Warhol (as pictured), Elizabeth Taylor, Mick Jagger, Bianca Jagger, Calvin Klein, Grace Jones, Liza Minelli, Elton John, John Travolta, Cher, Brooke Shields and the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson.
The party was continuously changing. It was said to feel like going to a new place every night– hence the frequent 'regulars' who never seemed to grow tired of returning to the same location so often. The only constant throughout the club was decadence. No matter the theme of the night, the sights, the drugs, the entire club scene was always decadent. Absolutely everything was done in excess.
Steve Rubell and the other co-owner Ian Schrager were charged and sentenced for tax evasion. The building was raided and bags filled with money were found. The case eventually led to the downfall of the club. Schrager and Rubell both pleaded guilty to tax evasion and had to spend 13 months in prison.
Studio 54 was closed down, but not before one last party in February 1980. Glamourous guests like Farrah Fawcett, Mariel Hemingway, Jocelyn Wildenstein, Richard Gere, Gia Carangi, Jack Nicholson, Reggie Jackson, and Sylvester Stallone all showed up for one last hurrah. Diana Ross personally serenaded Rubell and Schrager goodbye.