The Apollo was one of the most notable music venues in the UK, especially renowned during the 1970s and early 1980s.
Located at 121 Renfield Street, The Apollo was originally built in 1927 as Green’s Playhouse, a vast cinema and variety theatre boasting one of the largest auditoriums in Europe, with a seating capacity of over 4,000.
In 1973, after Green’s Playhouse closed, the building was reopened as The Apollo. It quickly became a legendary concert venue, hosting some of the biggest names in rock and pop. Acts such as David Bowie, AC/DC, Queen, The Rolling Stones, The Who, and Wings all performed there. The Apollo became especially famous for its electric atmosphere, steep balcony, bouncing floors, and enthusiastic crowds.
Despite its popularity, the venue struggled with financial issues and structural problems. It finally closed in June 1985, with the last official performance by The Style Council. The building stood derelict for a few years before being demolished in 1987.
Here are 11 nostalgic photos that perfectly capture the spirit of The Apollo on Renfield Street.
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9. The Apollo
“That’s not me being all Glaswegian and sentimental, it was just a fantastic venue. It was the wrong place for a rock concert. It was a cinema, so the stage was about fifteen foot off the ground because it was meant for showing films. If Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger or Roger Daltrey came out and stood at the microphone, they were fifteen feet up in the air looking into the circle.” | Glasgow City Archives
10. The Apollo
“I had so many fantastic times there and so many great experiences there meeting and seeing bands and just being part of that whole Apollo audience. It was a bit like that song New York, New York, “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere.” The Apollo crowd and audience really knew their music and they could spot a fake a mile away. If you could cut it on that fifteen-foot high stage, you could cut it anywhere and that’s why it was such a magical special place.” | Glasgow City Archives
11. The Apollo
The Glasgow Apollo closed its doors on 16 June 1985. The Style Council were the last act to perform at the venue before it was demolished two years later.. The last song played at the venue was their cover of Curtis Mayfield's "Move On Up". | Scotsman