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Starline Social Club is a renowned nightclub, bar, and multipurpose venue located in Oakland, California, United States. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1893, the venue originally served as a social club for Danish immigrants and has undergone various iterations, functioning as a Masonic lodge, speakeasy, and community gathering space over the years. In 2015, the Starline Social Club was reopened under new management, preserving much of its vintage aesthetic while updating its facilities to serve as a dynamic hub for Oakland’s vibrant arts and music scene.

The venue quickly established a reputation as a welcoming and inclusive space that hosts a broad spectrum of cultural events, from concerts and DJ nights to literary readings, comedy shows, and dance parties. Its stunning architecture, with ornate ballrooms and high ceilings, has made it a favorite among artists and attendees alike. Starline Social Club is noted for its commitment to supporting emerging and underrepresented talent, fostering creative expression, and contributing to Oakland’s reputation as a center for artistic innovation.

Over the years, the venue has faced challenges, including the shifting landscape of Oakland’s nightlife scene, gentrification pressures, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily shuttered its doors in 2022. However, there have been ongoing community efforts to revive and preserve this iconic venue. While it has always remained at its original location on San Pablo Avenue, the structure has undergone renovations to maintain safety while retaining its historical character.

Notable artists who have performed at Starline Social Club include internationally acclaimed acts like Kamaiyah, Jay Som, Moses Sumney, Snail Mail, Yves Tumor, Sudan Archives, and Ezra Furman, as well as influential local talent such as Fantastic Negrito, Tune-Yards, The Seshen, Bells Atlas, and Los Rakas. The venue has also hosted performances by acts like The Soft Moon, Madlib, Downtown Boys, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, and many more, solidifying its role as a crucial platform for both global and Bay Area artists.