Most photos of the iconic Capitol Records building are taken from the Hollywood and Vine intersection looking north, so this photo makes for a nice change. In this one, we’re looking east across the parking lot of the El Capitan Theatre (now known as the Avalon) and across Vine St to the Capitol Records building under construction. The building opened in 1956, so this was probably taken in 1955. On the right we can see the back of the Pantages Theatre which, back then, was still a movie house and wouldn’t be converted to live shows until 1977.
I was at both of those places last Saturday night! The Pantages for a sold out performance of the musical Back to the Future; just can never get enough of that lobby inside, and walking by the Capitol Records building whose annual Christmas lights always are a comforting sight during the holiday season!
Hollywood’s version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. I worked for many years on Hollywood and Vine. And I parked by the church a block from Capital Records, so I was always going past this incredible building, also the Pantages Theatre. It’s amazing to see the place under construction, and what an architect’s dream! The parking area has changed through the years. Unforgettable experience, the building is an absolute marvel and never ages. May have been inspired by the Tower of Pisa. No kidding. To this day I just love to gaze at this building and its place in the world of music. Thanks for the memories.
I agree with you, Tom! Even though some taller buildings are have appeared around it, it still never ceases to capture your attention. For awhile, early this morning, incidentally, the building and the entire city, it seemed, was blanketed in fog!
You bet! True, there are some taller buildings than the Capital Records
tower, but you have to give the architechts credit for being original. The building is a genuine work of art. If you walk by the front doors, it is so Hollywood, so cool. By the way, across the street is another famous landmark (hopefully Martin has some photos to share), the old Palace Theatre at 1735 North Vine. They shot many tv talk shows there, like Merv Griffin, also known as the Hollywood Palace, named after the variety tv show in the 60s. Its now a nightclub. My old Hollywood haunts!