The Viper Room is a legendary nightclub located on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, California, United States. Founded in 1993, the club quickly became an iconic symbol of Los Angeles nightlife and is known for its intimate setting and edgy atmosphere. Originally, the building had a long history of serving as various bars and clubs since the 1940s, including the Melody Room and Filthy McNasty's, before being rebranded as The Viper Room by actor Johnny Depp and musician Sal Jenco.
Almost instantly, it drew sensational attention for its celebrity clientele, underground sensibility, and as a magnet for rising musical talent. The Viper Room gained both notoriety and cultural significance after the tragic death of actor River Phoenix outside the venue on Halloween night, 1993, which further cemented its place in Hollywood lore. Over time, The Viper Room has embodied the spirit of the Sunset Strip's rock 'n' roll and alternative scenes, while also serving as a launch pad for numerous artists.
Throughout its operation, the club has maintained a reputation for being a haven for both established icons and up-and-coming performers, with a blend of secrecy, exclusivity, and raw artistic energy. Structurally, the nightclub has remained in the same location at 8852 Sunset Boulevard for decades, though it has undergone several interior renovations to enhance sound quality and accommodate shifting entertainment trends. As of the early 2020s, there have been reports of planned redevelopment that may eventually result in the demolition and relocation of the original storefront, signaling a new chapter in its storied existence.
Despite such changes, The Viper Room's legacy endures as a symbol of musical rebellion and Hollywood's glittering after-dark underbelly. Notable artists who have performed at The Viper Room include Johnny Cash, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Oasis, Pearl Jam, The Strokes, The Arctic Monkeys, Green Day, Fiona Apple, Bruce Springsteen, John Frusciante, Courtney Love, Iggy Pop, The Jonas Brothers, Kings of Leon, The Smashing Pumpkins, Vampire Weekend, Lenny Kravitz, Jerry Cantrell, Jane's Addiction, Sheryl Crow, Slash, Steve Earle, Chris Cornell, Keanu Reeves (as part of his band Dogstar), and local Los Angeles acts such as Rilo Kiley, Silversun Pickups, and Maroon 5.
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