First Avenue

Did the walls of First Avenue ever imagine witnessing such a vibrant history? From the echoes of bus engines to the roar of rock anthems, this building has seen it all. First Avenue started its life in 1937, not as a music venue, but as a Greyhound bus depot. Imagine the hustle and bustle of travelers, the clatter of luggage, and the constant arrival and departure of buses. It was a hub of activity, a crossroads for journeys. This Art Deco gem, with its terrazzo floors and sleek exterior, offered modern amenities like air conditioning, public phones, and even shower rooms. But its destiny lay elsewhere. In 1968, the buses moved on, leaving the building silent. However, the silence wouldn’t last long. In 1970, Allan Fingerhut saw the potential of this space, not for transportation, but for transformation. He envisioned a nightclub, a place where music would reign. Thus began First Avenue’s journey into the heart of Minneapolis’s music scene. It first opened its doors as “The Depot,” hosting the legendary Joe Cocker for its inaugural show. The 1970s saw the venue embrace the disco era, transforming into “Uncle Sam’s,” a vibrant dance club complete with a light-up dance floor. The name later shortened to “Sam’s” before finally becoming “First Avenue” on New Year’s Eve 1981. First Avenue became more than a music venue. It became a cultural landmark, a launching pad for local and national acts. Think of Prince, whose star shone brightly on this stage, and whose film, “Purple Rain,” immortalized First Avenue forever. The Replacements, Hüsker Dü, Soul Asylum, and countless others graced this stage, their music echoing through the curved walls, a legacy preserved in the hundreds of stars painted on the building’s exterior. Each star represents a performer, a moment in time, a piece of First Avenue’s soul. First Avenue is a survivor, weathering financial storms and even a ceiling collapse in 2015. It continues to pulsate with life, hosting hundreds of concerts every year. Its two stages, the Mainroom and the smaller 7th St Entry, offer a diverse range of music, ensuring there’s a rhythm for everyone. So, as you stand before this iconic building, remember its journey. From bus depot to music mecca, First Avenue is a testament to the power of transformation, the enduring spirit of music, and the vibrant heart of Minneapolis.