The Main Point facts for kids
The Main Point was a cool and cozy coffeehouse in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. It was open from 1964 to 1981. This special place hosted concerts by many famous musicians. They played folk, blues, rock, and country music. Comedy shows and poetry readings also happened there. The club was known for its small, friendly feel. Tickets were also very affordable.
Many big stars performed at The Main Point. Some famous names include Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, John Denver, Jimmy Buffett, and Bonnie Raitt. Comedians like George Carlin and Jay Leno also made people laugh there.
History of The Main Point
The Main Point started in 1964. Four couples who loved music created it. They were inspired by the Philadelphia Folk Festival. After a couple of years, Bill Scarborough joined as a co-owner. He was in charge of booking all the artists from 1964 to 1975.
Bill Scarborough sometimes picked artists based on his own musical taste. He once said that booking Bruce Springsteen was a good example. Springsteen was new and not well-known then. But Bill thought he would be a big star. The club was loved by both musicians and fans. David Fricke, who later wrote for Rolling Stone magazine, helped with press for the club.
The Main Point was popular for its music and its yummy homemade food. Even though it was popular, the club often had money problems. This was because it was so small. Musicians would even play special concerts to help raise money. Some of these shows were played on the local radio station WMMR. Many recordings from these shows are still around today. The Main Point finally closed its doors in 1981.
The Point: A New Chapter
A new music spot called The Point opened in 1998. It was just two doors down from the original Main Point. Richard Kardon owned and ran this new club. The Point closed in June 2005. However, the people who booked shows for The Point still arrange concerts today. They even booked artists for the Philadelphia Folk Festival for many years.
Amazing Concerts
Many unforgettable concerts happened at The Main Point. This was because of the great artists and the cozy space. On February 5, 1975, Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band played for over two and a half hours! They played long versions of songs like "New York City Serenade." They also played "Thunder Road" for the first time live. This concert was a benefit show to help the club. It was broadcast on radio station WMMR. Later that year, Jackson Browne also played benefit concerts for the club.
