118 - Glasgow Barrowlands with Alison Irvine

Join us for a deep dive into an iconic gig venue, the legendary Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom.

The building was first opened by Maggie McIver on Christmas Eve 1934 & hosts dances for the East End of Glasgow for decades, however once the big band era passes the venue begins to decline & loses popularity following the infamous Bible John murders in the late 1960s.

After a brief period as a Roller Disco the venue is revived following Simple Minds filming their Waterfront video in 1983.

In 1985 the famous neon sign goes up on the exterior of the building & the venue is still family ran to this day.

We hear about what makes the venue so famous from its legendary acoustics, to the ceiling stars & original features & also the famous Barrowlands atmosphere.

Some of the famous performances at the Barrowlands include The Pogues debuting Fairytale of New York with Joe Strummer on guitar, Noel Gallagher finishing an Oasis gig solo after Liam Gallagher walks off stage, debuting Whatever on acoustic guitar.

Unknown local acts Lewis Capaldi & Rianne Downeyt play early gigs at the venue while Scottish band The Saw Doctors hold the record for the most appearances at the Barrowlands.

Others to play the venue include Bob Dylan, David Bowie & dozens more.

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Hosted, Produced & Edited by Simon Cardwell

Music by Andy Maxwell

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