From their 1979 album The Long Run, the Eagles’ Sad Cafe describes an unusual location steeped in unfulfilled potential.
But have you ever wondered if it was based on an actual location? We sure have!
Today, we’re discussing the Troubadour, one of Southern California’s most iconic music venues.
Let’s hit it!
About the Sad Cafe
The Eagles’ nostalgic tune Sad Cafe paints the picture of a spot where dreams go to die for all but a lucky few. Unfortunately, this was the story for many who passed through its doors in real life.
Lines like, “We thought we could change this world with words like love and freedom. We were part of the lonely crowd inside the Sad Cafe,” drive home the sense of hope surrounding the establishment.
While the Eagles’ song bemoans the broken spirits who failed to attain their dreams, the Troubadour was a waypoint for many of the world’s biggest musicians. In fact, Don Henley and Glenn Frey first met here after Linda Ronstadt hired them to join her band.
Over the years, Jackson Browne, Elton John, Led Zeppelin, Steve Martin, Guns N’ Roses, Fiona Apple, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and countless others graced the stage.
The Troubadour opened as a coffee shop in 1957. In the 1960s, it was a popular hangout for folk musicians like Bob Dylan. In the following decade, it became more popular among rock and rollers and, later, glam rock acts.
It’s safe to say this establishment has remained relevant. These days, artists like Ray Lamontagne, the Arctic Monkeys, and Bastille occasionally perform at the iconic venue. And just like many household names who got their start at the Troubadour, up-and-coming musicians are still getting their big breaks here.
Where Is the Troubadour?
West Hollywood is an unusual corner of the greater Los Angeles metro area. It wasn’t formally declared a city until 1984, when a ragtag group of activists advocated for its creation. Today, about 35,000 residents call this two-mile plot of land home. Many come here for the sense of community and relatively affordable housing.
Despite its tiny footprint, West Hollywood is a significant cultural hub. Here, you’ll find the famous Sunset Strip, where rockers have performed for decades. Nightclubs like The Comedy Store, Whisky a Go Go, and the Viper Room are staples along the route.
Long before it became a city, this neighborhood was an unincorporated part of LA. As such, locals could legally gamble and, less legally, find quiet back rooms where they could drink during prohibition. It drew many early celebrities and movie stars. Legendary figures like F Scott Fitzgerald made it their West Coast landing place.
By the 1960s and ’70s, musicians had also discovered this hidden gem. Artists from Tupac Shakur to Donna Summer wrote tunes about the fabled land. And even more performed and spent time here.
While the Sad Cafe isn’t technically on the Strip, it’s less than one mile south.
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Fun Things To Do Near the Sad Cafe
West Hollywood is crammed full of notable destinations in music history. Here are three must-hit spots that fans of just about any genre can get into.
Catch a Show at the Troubadour
Of course, a trip to the Strip would be incomplete without a stop at the Troubadour. Check out the stage where Fiona Apple, Guns n’ Roses, and Gordon Lightfoot played their first live shows. Grab a moody booth in the back or sidle up to the bar and imagine the thrills these artists felt upon finally breaking onto the scene.
You can catch musicians and comedians every night of the week. In May 2024, it’ll host several shows as part of the Netflix is a Joke Fest, the biggest comedy festival in the country. Folks like Nicole Byer, Joel Kim Booster, Dusty Slay, and Craig Robinson will showcase their talents.
If you miss these events, rest assured you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of others throughout the year.
Pro Tip: Check out the official Troubadour website for the full calendar of events.
Explore the Grammy Museum at LA Live
About 20 minutes from the Sad Cafe, you’ll find an establishment dedicated to preserving American music history.
The Grammy Museum celebrates artists of the past and present. Permanent exhibits include the Michael Jackson display, where you can see a collection of the star’s sparkling gloves and iconic outfits. There’s also an array of unforgettable red-carpet outfits on display.
You can also dive into a phonic experience in the Mono to Immersive Room. You’ll hear what Cardi B would’ve sounded like on a gramophone and relive notable performances from the renowned awards show.
Stroll the Sunset Strip
Naturally, you’ll want to take to the streets to see West Hollywood’s other famous landmarks from music history. And there’s no better place to enjoy the sights than the Sunset Strip.
Located one mile north of the Troubadour, Sunset Boulevard connects LA proper to Santa Monica. You can catch a live show at the Roxy Theater, House of Blues, or the Viper Room. Grab a bite to eat at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, or hop on the free trolley, called the Sunset Trip, for a ride around town.
However you choose to spend your time, you’ll soak up the vibe of this effervescent neighborhood and see why so many have flocked here over the years.
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Best Places to Stay Near the Sad Cafe
Give yourself plenty of time to explore West Hollywood. After all, there’s a lot to take in, and you won’t want to miss anything. Here are a few highly-rated accommodations nearby.
Hollywood RV Park
Campers traveling through the City of Angels should consider a stay at the Hollywood RV Park. This family-owned campground has been a staple since 1976.
You’ll have full hookups with 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp electrical service. Laundry facilities, trash service, and restrooms with hot showers offer all the essentials. Additionally, there’s free WiFi, a gym, and a dog run for your four-legged friends.
Of course, this RV park isn’t your average campground. You can take yoga classes, admire locally crafted artwork, and even catch live music or a comedy show on-site at the Hollywood Playhouse.
Dresden’s Bed and Breakfast
For quieter accommodations, check out Dresden’s Bed and Breakfast. This quaint family residence features all the comforts of home, with the top-notch customer service of a big hotel. Sleep on a luxurious memory foam mattress, lounge by the swimming pool, and get ready for a night on the town in the newly remodeled bathroom.
Best of all, it’s two blocks from the Sunset Strip, so you’ll be in walking distance to some of West Hollywood’s best attractions.
Mondrian Los Angeles
The Mondrian is an iconic hotel in West Hollywood. After all, it’s right across Sunset Boulevard from The Comedy Store, making its location second to none. If you’re looking for luxury accommodations in the heart of the city, this is the place to be.
Rooms feature smart TVs, wireless charging stations, and fully stocked minibars. There’s a state-of-the-art fitness center, a rooftop bar and swimming pool, and multiple places to dine on-site.
You’ll live the good life during your stay at one of the neighborhood’s most highly esteemed establishments.
Grab your copy of Life in the Fast Lane: The Eagles’ Reckless Ride Down the Rock & Roll Highway.
Is a Road Trip to the Sad Cafe Worth It?
You might not find a Sad Cafe sign to take your picture with, but the Troubadour is a destination you won’t want to pass up. The history here runs deep and includes some of the biggest names in the music industry.
We highly suggest a trip to West Hollywood and the Sunset Strip. Even if you don’t necessarily bask in the limelight, you can soak up that SoCal vibe and relive some of the industry’s most iconic moments!
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