The owner of Maxwell's, the legendary music venue that played host to everyone from REM to Nirvana, was feted at the Hoboken City Council meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 23, receiving a standing ovation from the council and those at the meeting.
"No one has ever accused the Hoboken city council of being cool but tonight we're kinda cool, because we're honoring Steve Fallon," Councilman Phil Cohen said.
Fallon opened Maxwell's at 1039 Washington St. in 1978 and it quickly became the place to hear the hottest indie music. He also formed the record label Coyote Records, introducing bands like Yo La Tengo, The Feelies and Gut Bank to the masses, while the venue continued to book acts like The Smashing Pumpkins and My Chemical Romance.
"This proclamation was only capable because of all of you in this room," Fallon said. "You all made Hoboken what it is, by sharing in my efforts and dreams of having a place for music and art.
Maxwell's was also known for its inclusive atmosphere, a place where LGBTQ residents and people from all backgrounds could feel welcome. The venue also hosted film screenings, art exhibits, poetry readings and dance performances.
Bruce Springsteen's "Glory Days" music video was also filmed at the venue while Justin Timberlake filmed a commercial there. After several closures and re-openings, Maxwell's closed for good in 2018.
Click here to watch the meeting.
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