So … it’s 2010 now. And the next decade is going to be awesome. The music we’re making these days is really good, too … like the newest wave in an ocean of sound. Every new song we hear is influenced—in some way—by the music of yesterday.
Which has got me thinking … what are some of the best songs of the last few decades? And who are the coolest musicians on your top ten list? And while we’re at it, where are the most famous places they’ve played? One of the most famous venues, of course, is shown below. Can you name this well-known concert venue?
I’ll give you a couple of hints. It’s the site of many historic performances … by people like The Beatles, Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole, and Luciano Pavarotti. And it has been the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic since 1922.
Yes, this is the Hollywood Bowl. With a current seating capacity of just under 18,000, it is one of the largest natural amphitheaters in the world. Without a doubt, it’s pretty awesome. And it’s gone through a lot of changes over the last few decades.
The Hollywood Bowl is a popular landmark nestled in the hills outside Los Angeles. For the locals—and for people across the globe—it’s as much a part of Southern California as the beaches and barbecues or the Dodgers and Disneyland.
It officially opened on July 11, 1922 on the site of a natural amphitheater in the hillsides of Bolton Canyon. At first, the Bowl looked totally different than it does today. In the early years, it was very close to its natural state, with only simple wooden benches for the audience and a basic awning over the stage.
But after going through a couple of different designs, the architects finally came up with its dome-shaped stage in 1928. This unusual design is part of why the Bowl is now so famous. Here’s a picture of the venue in 1932:
Since it began, the Hollywood Bowl has been totally classic. And over the years, it’s been a favorite place for all kinds of performances. Here’s a photo of it in 1951, full of people soaking in its unique acoustics:
Tons of legendary performers have stood on its stage, including Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, Igor Stravinsky, Mickey Rooney, Simon and Garfunkel, Abbot and Costello, Garth Brooks, Fred Astaire, Elton John, Coldplay, Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, and Mikhail Baryshnikov.
The venue has gone through a few facelifts since 1922. A big outer arch was added to the front of the dome to make it look more appealing. And in 1953, a water fountain and reflecting pool were put in to make the stage look even cooler … whoa.
Because it’s located right in the Hollywood hills, the Bowl has been featured in a lot of movies. It’s also a favorite place for people to just go visit and have a picnic. In fact, the Bowl grounds themselves are one of Los Angeles County’s most popular parks—open year-round for visitors to enjoy free of charge.
Yes, the Hollywood Bowl. It’s a pretty cool place. And who knows what the next decade will bring to this classic venue?