CBGB
CBGB's was founded by Hilly Kristal in December 1973 in New York's Lower East Side. It was originally opened as a venue for country and blues bands - even naming itself after these styles of music. CBGB OMFUG - to give it its full name - stood for Country Bluegrass Blues and Other Music For Uplifting Gormandizers!
However, in March 1974, a little known band called Television started a residency and the New York punk scene was born. CBGB's witnessed early gigs from such legends as The Ramones, Blondie and Talking Heads. In the 1980s it was a key player in the underground hardcore scene, with the Sunday matinee show infamous both for the music and violence.
Official CBGB Apparel
After a dispute with the local residents committee, CBGB's finally closed in October 2006. Patti Smith was the final act to play there. Hilly Kristal has taken the name and plans to open a new CBGB's in Las Vegas, but the legend lives on in New York and the fashion side of the business is still based in the Lower East Side. CBGB's merchandise is often copied but this is the real stuff, direct from New York.