Mario Maglieri Dies

Mario Maglieri, 93, owner of Los Angeles’ Whiskey a Go Go, The Roxy and Rainbow Bar and Grill, died May 4 “surrounded by loved ones,” according to a Facebook post by the Rainbow. No further information was available at press time. 

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Maglieri was known as the “king” or “godfather” of the Sunset Strip and had been involved with the music scene of Los Angeles for five decades.  

He came to the U.S. from Seppino, Italy, at the age of four and eventually ran restaurants and clubs in Chicago before moving to L.A. with his family where he launched the three legendary clubs. He received the Hollywood F.A.M.E. award in 2010. 

The venues are known for launching everybody from The Doors to Frank Zappa to Guns N’ Roses, with the Whiskey already in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

A public memorial will be held at the Rainbow May 28.