Midnight at Cherry Bar. The air hums with a low thrum of anticipation. This isn’t just any bar. This is Cherry Bar in Melbourne.
Cherry Bar isn’t just a place to drink it’s a Melbourne institution. Founded in 1999 by Bill Walsh a former drummer for Cosmic Psychos it quickly became a legendary rock and roll haven. Initially located on AC/DC Lane its basement location sheltered it from a fire that ravaged the offices above in 2008. The only damage to Cherry Bar was from water used to fight the fire.
The Cherry Bar’s fame spread far and wide. Even Noel Gallagher of Oasis tried to buy it. Mick Jagger Johnny Marr and Lady Gaga all visited this unassuming Melbourne bar. The bar hosted Deep Funk nights hip-hop Thursdays and consistent weekend rock and roll. DJs like Max Crawdaddy Paul Miles Little Scotty and later Mary M Dom Kez DJ Mermaid and Leaping Larry L spun tunes. PBS announcers Vince Peach and Pierre Baroni even took to the decks on Thursday nights.
Cherry Bar’s influence extends beyond its walls. Airbourne mentioned it in their song Fat City. Jet’s Rollover DJ was inspired by nights at the bar. The music video for Kylie Auldist’s Sensational was filmed there. Even scenes from the movie Queen of the Damned were shot inside.
The bar however also witnessed tragedy. A manslaughter case in 2017 cast a shadow. The bar was also embroiled in controversy surrounding noise complaints and its eventual move. In 2019 Cherry Bar relocated to 68 Little Collins Street.
But the spirit of Cherry Bar remains. It’s a place where rock history is made and legends are born. A place where you might rub shoulders with a rock star or simply enjoy a great night out. It’s more than just a bar. It’s an experience. It’s Cherry Bar Melbourne.