In the 60s, the Purple Turnip was located at 950 10th Street and was the place where many of the local bands played. The Strand Theatre was used for concerts was host to many legendary performers like Van Morrison, Them & Arthur Lee and Love, The Grass Roots, The Golliwogs (who later became Creedence Clearwater Revival) and others in 1967. Other shows at The Strand included an R&B show headlining Peaches and Herb and a show that headlined The Sir Douglas Quintet (with Freddy Fender in the band). The Modesto Skate Rink at 250 Tully Road, (burned down in 80s) hosted concerts over the years including the Doors, Grateful Dead, Sammy Hagar, Pablo Cruise and many more. The Uptown Arena hosted boxing as well as big concerts. The Turlock War Memorial and California Ballroom were places you could easily book, make flyers and get some KFIV promo.
During the 1980s’ the Sports Page was the biggest nightclub and remains in business today as Crocodile’s where classic rock is played every weekend. Other venues included Charlie Tuna’s, The Vintage, The Tree Frog Tavern, and Gilligan’s, and the legendary Fable Room, located in the basement of the Covell Hotel, that was renamed Dazzles Underground in the 80s.
Today, the Historic Cruise Route of 10th and 11th Streets is the center of the nightlife scene and were a big part of the downtown renaissance of Modesto with the restoration of the State Theatre and the opening of Tresetti’s in ‘94. The Fat Cat Music House and Lounge was the first club in the new era of music and dancing in Modesto USA and lead to the new excitement in downtown Modesto. The Purple Turnip once stood where the Palladium Nightclub is today. Hero’s is making a big push with all ages live music and Queen Bean is an all ages showcase on a regular basis.
Live music is still a very important part of the Modesto, USA entertainment scene featuring a variety of nightclub, restaurant and theatre venues that cater to the “All Ages” crowd and the over 21s. The Modesto Area Music Association recognizes the best music venues and restaurants/cafes that present live music. www.modestoareamusic.com
