On the corner of Luckie street lies a building that is covered in aged red bricks and from this building comes stories of insane musical memories and artists who have created shows living on in the eyes of those who bore witness.
The Tabernacle first opened in 1910 and was originally called the Broughton Tabernacle. Dr. Leonard Gaston Broughton was a pastor and physician. He created this building as a baptist church, a clear indication seen when viewing the stain glass windows inside the building.
It eventually became a House of Blues in 1996 during the 1996 Olympics and had artists like Johnny Cash and James Brown perform there and then finally in 1998 the venue became the place we enjoy today, The Tabernacle.
It is currently owned by Live Nation who have produced tours for the biggest name in music like The Rolling Stones, Madonna, U2 and Coldplay. Their mission, as stated on The Tabernacle website, “is to inspire passion for live music around the world.” They also produce, promote and host motor sports and other live entertainment events.
This venue has been home to many big name artists over the past years like Ed Sheeran, The 1975, Jason Derulo and Weezer. In the past, the popular artists of that generation also made an appearance at the classic spot. Guns N’ Roses, Bob Dylan, The Black Crowes and Prince are just some of the epic musical geniuses that made their mark on The Tabernacle stage.
“The building started out as a Baptist church and then was converted to a House of Blues and I think this history gives it a unique feeling,” said Molly Sandman, marketing manager for The Tabernacle. “The energy in the building during most shows is incredible. It is why artists continually want to play here and why we are often on national lists of best venues in the country. That is another reason why the Tabernacle is such an exciting treasure.”
Since it is a place with such close quarters, the shows are generally more intimate and personal, meaning you are able to connect with the artist more and fellow audience members as well.
The Tabernacle isn’t just a home for music, it also hosts various acts and comedy shows. It has even had Conan O’brien host a week of “Conan” shows. They also have Youtuber tours, Digitours and host private performances.
“We host many comedians. Some that have performed are Dave Chappelle, Bill Maher, Daniel Tosh and Brian Regan. It was during the Final 4 when Conan O’brien shot his show here for a week and that was pretty exciting,” Sandman said.
When you think, where is the “it” place for music to performed in Atlanta, usually people say the Phillips Arena. However, The Tabernacle brings something to the table that a huge place like Phillips Arena just can’t; it brings character. It is a place where memories are created, a place where artist worship is truly fulfilled. No where else are you able to be guaranteed to meet the artist you just saw on stage on the side of the building.
This upcoming month, the venue will be filled with artists like Ben Howard, Billy Idol and Topp Dogg. They will have comedians John Mulaney and Patton Oswalt also and will host Digitour 2015. This new year will be filled with countless acts that will draw crowds from all around. And if wanting a private party/show for yourself is in the cards, The Tabernacle can be sure to deliver on that as well.
The Tabernacle is like no other venue. Once inside, it becomes a foggy, loud wonderland that captivates its visitors; it is no wonder that on occasion hundreds of people will line up outside, waiting for the arrival of the artist they obsess over. If a trip to this marvelous live music box hasn’t occurred yet, then pass through those large arched doorways and enjoy the cultural ride.
