Why it matters
Hilly Kristal founded CBGB on the Bowery in 1973. The small club became an important setting for New York punk, art rock and new wave, with artists including the Ramones, Blondie, Television, Talking Heads and Patti Smith. The original room closed in October 2006. CBGB's continuing brand, festival and merchandise activity are a separate story from that shuttered club: a current CBGB-branded event is not evidence that the 315 Bowery venue has reopened.
