The Fillmore Auditorium, located at 1805 Geary Boulevard in San Francisco, is a historic music venue renowned for its pivotal role in the city’s cultural and musical evolution. Originally opened in 1912 as the Majestic Hall and Academy of Dancing, it underwent several transformations before becoming the Fillmore Auditorium in 1954 under the management of Charles Sullivan, a prominent African-American businessman. Sullivan was instrumental in promoting African-American artists and fostering an inclusive environment during a time of segregation.
In the mid-1960s, promoter Bill Graham began organizing concerts at the Fillmore, turning it into a hub for the burgeoning counterculture and psychedelic music scene. The venue hosted legendary performances by artists such as the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Jimi Hendrix, and Janis Joplin. The Fillmore’s innovative light shows and distinctive concert posters became iconic symbols of the era.
Due to neighborhood changes and the rise of larger concert venues, Graham closed the original Fillmore in 1968, shifting operations to the Fillmore West at 10 South Van Ness Avenue. However, the original Fillmore reopened in 1994, restored to its former glory, and continues to host a diverse array of artists. Traditions such as handing out free apples and commemorative posters to concertgoers persist, maintaining the venue’s unique charm.
The Fillmore’s legacy is celebrated through various memorabilia, including vintage concert posters and recordings of historic performances. Notably, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers’ 1997 residency at the Fillmore was captured in a comprehensive live album, showcasing the venue’s enduring appeal to artists and fans alike.
Today, the Fillmore Auditorium remains a cherished landmark in San Francisco’s music scene, symbolizing decades of musical innovation and cultural significance.
