Remembering the Main Point, 1964 - 1981


WXPN Most Memorable Musical Moment #5

Begining in 1964, The Main Point in Bryn Mawr provided the Philadelphia area with one of its most enjoyable venues for live music. Although it started as a folk based coffeehouse, all styles of music were presented over the years. Financial problems continually plagued the Main Point, and in spite of frequent benefit shows by artists who loved the place as much as the audience, the club finally closed in 1981. The following brief history is contained in an obituary of Jeanette O. Campbell, one of the founders and owners of the Main Point who died on October 22, 2006, written by Philadelphia Inquirer Staff Writer Sally A. Downey as reprinted on the Save Ardmore Coalition website.

Jeanette Orndoff Campbell, 89, former owner of the Main Point, a music hall in Bryn Mawr where young talents including Bruce Springsteen, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt and James Taylor were introduced to local audiences, died of complications from hip surgery Oct. 22 at Stapeley, a retirement residence in Germantown.

Mrs. Campbell booked acts, baked gingerbread and brownies, made the coffee and cider, and offered bed and board to performers at the Main Point from its opening night in a 1964 blizzard until it closed in 1981. By then, the club was operating in the red, and musicians, grateful that Mrs. Campbell had given them a chance, raised money to pay her bills at benefit concerts, her granddaughter, Heather Fowler, said.

"My life began at 46, when my husband and I got the idea that the Main Line needed a place for nice folk music after we were at the Philadelphia Folk Festival," she told a reporter in 1975. "It was a really spiritual awakening for me. So we pooled our money with four other couples and opened the Main Point."

After the other couples gave up their interests and she and her husband, William Campbell, divorced, Mrs. Campbell said, the Main Point became her "entire life."

Riding the crest of the acoustic music boom, the club welcomed then-obscure artists like Joni Mitchell and Arlo Guthrie. Bruce Springsteen sang "It's Hard to Be a Saint in the City," "Hey Santa Ana," "Secret to the Blues," and "New York City Serenade" at the Main Point as the opening act on Jan. 3, 1973. He returned to the club several times as a headliner.

I'm not entirely certain why there are no photos in my archive from the Main Point, since I have shots of many of the Main Point artists playing other venues during the same time period. My best guess is that the Main Point may have had a no camera policy. Considering all the amazing performances that took place there, it's sad that the photographic legacy is almost non-existent. Except for the menu reproduced below, all of the photos and graphics included here come from a 1974 publication called The Main Point 10 Years On... A Special 10th Anniversary Publication.


Photo by Steve Weitzman

Steve Goodman played the Main Point numerous times, but I'm going to guess that the above photo was taken in January 1972, based on the artist list below. According to the anniversary publication, Steve Goodman (far right) after completing his set invited John Prine (center) up to the stage for the encore, and they sang a twenty minute set of Hank Williams tunes. After leaving the stage, they obliged the thundering ovation from the audience with another encore and brought out the opening act (far left) Trevor Veitch and Andy Kulberg. "When the extra mikes were set and everyone situated, Trevor leaned into the mike and announced, "Will you please welcome Bonnie Raitt!" (center). More Hank Williams tunes followed and the performance concluded with a rendition of "Will the Circle Be Unbroken".


Photo by Ross Watson

The staff of the Main Point assembled on the sidewalk outside for their group photo.




This drawing by blues/folk singer-songwriter Ellen McIlwaine ("Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven but Nobody Wants to Die") shows the audience and and the stage of the Main Point. The wooden chairs were grouped together in rows with a shelf attached to the back that served as the table for the next seat behind. The stage is to the right in this drawing, where you see the microphone stand.



The 10th Anniversary publication included this nearly complete listing of all the artists who performed at the Main Point during its first ten years of existence. Click on the lists above and below to enlarge and read the listings, the wealth of musical talent that graced the Main Point stage is extraordinary.



Reading back over the first ten years of shows I realize that my personal history with this venue only really just scratched the surface. Sure, I saw many of the traditional folk artists that gave the Main Point it's original idenity; Eric Anderson, Tom Rush, Dave Van Ronk. The opener for the December 1970 Dave Van Ronk show was Jonathan Edwards, who who quickly became a regular and a club favorite. I may have seen him there three times before he released his first album, including memorable co-billings with Bill Withers (September, 1971) and Alex Taylor (June, 1971). Alex was somewhat of a regular at the Main Point also, performing there numerous times.

In the wake of James Taylor's huge 1970 success, James' musically inclined siblings all got recording contracts and all appeared at the Main Point. After James, Livingston has had the most sustained career success and he too was a regular performer at the Main Point and I enjoyed seeing him there many times. Alex passed away in 1993 leaving us five albums including two excellent efforts for Capricorn from 1971 and 1972 that have both been reissued on CD. I can't find Kate Taylor in the Main Point listings, but I know I saw her there around the time of her first album Sister Kate in 1971. But for my junior drivers license (which is what you got in PA from age 16 until turning 18 and which carried a midnight curfew) I might have seen all four of the Taylors. I was in line on the fourth of July 1970 for tickets to that night's James Taylor show (opening act, Manhattan Transfer). By the time I reached the front of the line the early show had sold out and I regrettably passed on buying tickets to the late show.

Emmitt Rhodes played the Main Point in early 1971, drawing from his self titled debut album which he wrote, sang, played all the instruments, engineered, and recorded at home, a record that met or exceeded most of the expectations that fans held for Paul McCartney's similarly produced first solo album. In July of 1972 the Strawbs rocked the house with a full band, over from England to play songs from their then new release Grave New World with its FM radio hit "Benedictus". When I went by the Main Point a few days before the show to buy tickets I was treated to a few songs by Chi Coltrane who was playing at the time, offering a very high voltage performance characterized by her top twenty hit "Thunder and Lightning".

In 1969 and 1970 I twice went to the Main Point to see the American Dream, a local Philadelphia band that made one classic album produced by Todd Rundgren in 1970 that included the very radio friendly "I Ain't Searchin' Anymore" and the novelty tune "Frankford El". Philly local trivia: Nick Jameson, the guitarist of the American Dream went on to become an actor, appearing in the latest two seasons of 24 as the Russian President Yuri Suvarov. It was mentioned above that the Main Point opened amidst a blizzard in 1964. I have fond memories of another show there that took place despite a blizzard in early 1978 when Bruce Cockburn took the stage and performed for about twenty or twenty-five hardy souls who made it to the Main Point despite maybe a foot of snow that had just fallen.



This menu is from April, 1971 and is also clickable for a larger view. The food at the Main Point was always as enjoyable as the music, which was a testament to the work of Jeanette Campbell. The baked beans and bread, the brownies, and the hot cider with cookies were especially memorable, and check out the prices.


The photo above is not credited, but the long lines down the sidewalk on Lancaster Avenue were a familiar sight during the Main Point's era. Unlike its successor, The Point, the Main Point was only open for shows, seats were not reserved, and the audience would queue up long in advance of the opening of the doors. Click on the above page from the 10th Anniversary Publication to enlarge and read some of comments from both customers and artists about the Main Point.

Live radio concerts, mostly on WMMR were an occasional treat. One such broadcast, the 2/5/75 Bruce Springsteen show was recently posted by another XPN Guest Blogger for your listening pleasure. Some broadcasts, such as that one by Springsteen have been widely bootlegged, others now reside only in radio station archives and maybe a few listeners' tape collections. Springsteen was broadcast from the Main Point multiple times, including another classic show from 10/31/73, also on WMMR.

Jackson Browne is another artist who was broadcast multiple times, including an acoustic duet show with David Lindley on 9/07/75 that was part of a string of shows to benefit the Main Point during one of it's many periods of financial difficulty. The beauty of the music that these two artists performed together in the duet acoustic format is hard to put into words. Mid-set, Jackson left the stage for a short set of David Lindley fiddle tunes, during which he bummed a cigarette from me. Incidentally an old friend of mine recalls seeing Jackson Browne and Bruce Springsteen on the same bill in the early seventies at a nearby show at the Villanova Fieldhouse. They've shared the same stage many times in later years doing benefit concerts for various political and social causes.

WIOQ broadcast an artist named Moon Martin (now there's an obscure one) from the Main Point in 1978. George Thorogood and Jesse Colin Young also had broadcasts from there. One of the most memorable radio concerts from the Main Point was a 6/20/76 show by Warren Zevon carried on WMMR during which he personalized "Werewolves of London" to include lines like "Werewolves of Bryn Mawr" and "Werewolves of greater Philly".

Ultimately the fact that the Main Point did not serve alchohol most likely was a primary factor in the financial problems that ultimately led to it's demise. Ironically, years later, the lack of liquor license (and resistance to expansion) would also result in the closing of The Point, a more than worthy successor to the Main Point that operated a few doors down the street from 1998 to 2005. Considering the rich history of the Main Point, there are many more legends and stories than could be told here. Here's a fascinating memory posted by another listener to the XPN memorable moment archive; I had never heard before that Blind Faith played the Main Point, I'm wondering if they used the club for practice and a non-publicized performance. Here's another great XPN listener memory of Springsteen at the Main Point in 1973. And here's one more XPN listener memory of George Thorogood that popped up with the random moment generator (below). If you wish to add your own memories of the Main Point, please do so by adding a comment to this blog.

Here's a nifty link to XPN's 885 Most Memorable Musical Moments site that will bring up a random moment from the archive of submissions. Voting begins September 17th, the countdown playback will be in October.
View one of the 885 Most Memorable Musical Moments at random!

Comments

Charlie Ricci said…
Wow, what a great recollection of such a great place! Of everybody you mentioned it is mind blowing that Browne, Raitt, Taylor, and The Boss all played here. They are the four that I would have loved to have seen at The Main Point.

If only venues like The Main Point and The Point could could survive in this music world of today. Thanks for posting this!!!
Anonymous said…
Having experienced acts (because of the intimacy of the place, experienced is the correct word) such as Chris Smither, Tom Rush, Jerry Jeff Walker, David Brmoberg, The Buddy Guy Blues Band, The Stone Ponies, Bonnie Raitt, Livingston Taylor, The Velvet Underground, Harry Chapin and more at "The Point," the place will always be alive for me. What a wonderful passel of memories!
Anonymous said…
It's great to read this accounting ... and to experience the Point come alive again. I worked for four years at the Main Point from around 1972 to 1975 (was one of the kids in that staff photo above), and saw most of the acts appearing in that time, usually several shows for each. The staff always had the best seats in the house once they finished dispensing all the hot honeyed lemonade and gingerbread and whipped cream, in our spot up on the radiator cover just opposite the stage and probably not more than 20 feet from the performers. I'll never forget Steve the light man's incredible light show he did for Bruce Springsteen's performances, all cued precisely to the nuances of the music. In that little club Bruce, Clarence Clemons et al. put on a show worthy of a stadium; and not long after the band landed the covers of both Time and Newsweek at once, I understand the band invited Steve to do the lights in stadiums for real.

That night when Steve Goodman invited John Prine, Bonnie Raitt and others up on the stage (shown in photo) was a keeper. If I recall rightly it was a relatively slow evening, cold and wet, with the house probably not much more than half full if that, but when those folks came up on the stage, one after another, it was like the sun came out. An amazing high for everyone, including the performers. Just by himself Steve Goodman was like sunshine each time he performed there. He's gone now, but check out the video of him at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xBxZGQ1dJk - playing "A Dying Cub Fan's Last Request."

Hall and Oates put together a huge sound with their voices alone - unbelievable. When Billy Joel played at the Point he was a relative unknown, but every time I hear him on the radio it all comes back: his voice, dark lyrics, piano, the wooden floors, painted tables, and the sight and smell of the brownies and pretzels, etc., all piled high atop the globs, mochas and teas on our trays. Often during a show the sirens of a fire truck would start wailing down Lancaster Avenue, giving the performers pause and a reason to joke.

The magical moments from four years of shows are far to numerous to mention; many of them happened back stage or at the coin-op pool table downstairs during or after shows. Things like lighting a match to John Prine's cigarette in a dark corner as the opening act played; exchanging words with Bruce on that night he and the band had the flu; seeing Lily Tomlin huddled in a nook in the original tiny kitchen, getting herself in character before walking on; smiling at Tom Waits as he sat shyly on the kitchen floor, leaning against the wall and just hanging out; playing second base to Steve Goodman's short stop in an afternoon softball game; joining Robert Palmer and a Philly DJ at the Villanova Howard Johnson's after the show; sitting smack between Tom Rush and Trevor Veitch in the basement as they played together and Tom sang the most beautiful rendition of "Urge for Going" I ever heard; chatting with Tommy Chong (of Cheech and Chong) as I wiped down tables after the audience was gone. One thing I'll never forget was Emmet (Robbie) Robinson in his role as emcee - a class act, and in many ways, the soul of the Point. Before I worked there I remember sitting in the front row next to my girlfriend right at the feet of Lou Reed with the Velvet Underground. After I stopped working there, I kept going to shows for free ... and met my husband there.

The place was a piece of art not just because of the performers but also because of the staff who made it happen, and it will always live on as long as those who experienced it remain alive. Thanks for this opportunity to relive these moments!
William Kates said…
Thank you Polly for an awesome personal history. There was something magical about the place that went way beyond your average music venue. Thanks again for sharing. - Bill
shastacc said…
OMG Polly! I remember the night Cheech and Chong were there. I had never laughed so hard and I have never laughed that hard again!

I spent a lot of time there with Wire & Wood before we all moved to LA. Probably sat on that radiator cover with you once or twice. Or maybe partied downstairs at the end of the night.

I remember that Halloween night that Bruce played to a half packed house. Can you imagine that today?

Those were rockin' times. The place unique and the talent was the best, show after show.

Thanks Bill for the trip down Memory Lane.
Anonymous said…
Polly you captured the essence and the soul of the Main Point. Haiving worked there along side you from 72-79, it shaped my life, my marriage, my family and my life-long friends. I hope some day to re-connect with you.
Vince Raimondo
milo said…
I have a review of a Rory Gallagher concert at the Point from September 1974 but your concert list only goes to April '74. Do you have additional listings for the last half of '74?
William Kates said…
Milo - The listing here is from a publication that the Main Point produced to celebrate their anniversary. I haven't run across any additional documentation, but if any readers have listings to add, I'd be glad to post them here, as well as that Rory Gallagher review if you'd like to send it. My email is wkates@hotmail.com. Thanks for reading and commenting.
Unknown said…
viewing this site brought back vivid memories of some of the finest musical experiences of my life. I remember Buddy Guy playing with a ratty little amp propped up on a chair in front of a house mike, Doc Watson performing with John Pilla, who gave guitar lessons at a music store in Ardmore. I have an album jacket autographed by Stan Rogers at a concert at the Main Point.
What a great venue and outstanding performers.
Unknown said…
I saw Jim Croce (opening act) and Randy Newman at the Main Point. One of the best concert nights in my life.
Unknown said…
Hey Maria,

I was at that Randy Newman/Jim Croce show too! I loved the Main Point. Saw lots of performers there from Janis Ian to the Boys of the Lough to Charles Mingus. Can't beat that diversity. I even recorded John Fahey at the Main Point for WXPN. Fahey barely looked up at me when I asked him to sign the release. It was an amazing concert. The first tune that Fahey played lasted almost 30 minutes. I thought I was going to run out of tape! Boy, I wish I had a copy of that tape now. I have a few radio concerts from the Main Point but there are many that I missed. If anybody has any (especially that Fahey tape), I'd be happy to trade. russellwoessner@verizon.net
Ernie Henderson said…
I worked there with Polly & Vince. What a wonderful place and what wonderful people.

My (ex) wife introduced Commander Cody to his wife there. He's still married to her.

It ought to be a movie.
Anonymous said…
I was cleaning out my basement just the other day and I came across the 10th Anniversary issue of The Main Point. As I started looking through the pages the memories of performances of The Boss, Livingston Taylor, Bonnie Raitt and one group that was never mentioned Aztec-Two Step,thisw started to make me think of the fond memories I have of this place . I learned to really love music at this venue. Finding the 10th Anniversary issue made me realize what an impact The Main Point had on me, that through all the years and all my moves, The Main Point was a memory that I never wanted to let go. Thank you all.
malteseowner said…
I remember seeing Leonard Cohen a couple of times, sitting at kid's wooden school desks, the stage only a few feet away. Wow, what memories this place has. Also saw Tom Rush, Harry Chapin and a couple of others there. Wish I had gone more often. I do remember coming into the front, purchasing baked goods then going into the large room through a curtain, right? how many did the room hold...couldn't have been 100 could it? Lorraine.
As an aspiring opera singer in 1970, I knew Jeanette Campbell and her daughter Susan as they lived upstairs from me on Merion Ave. in Bryn Mawr. I spent 2 summers managing the kitchen at the Main Point and loved every minute there. Met George Carlin, Chris Christopherson, Muddy Waters, James Taylor and sister Kate as well as other major up and coming talents of the day. It was a wonderful place and experience. I made friendships there that have lasted me 40 yrs. Bless you Jeanette and Susan. RIP both.
Anonymous said…
I'm 82 now, and sometimes my memory fails me. I've been to the mainpoint several times and thought that it was the place where I saw two guys ( I don't recall their names) sing "Peaceale kingdom," a song about Edward Hicks, the Quaker Preacher and America's primative painter from Newtown PA. Am I correct?
Charles.
Anonymous said…
Does anyone remember the exact address of the Main Point? and/or the name of the bars across the street?

I remember seeing Janis Ian there in the mid-70's. It was indeed a wonderful venue.
bernardo said…
So good to read about all the great concerts - in hindsight I regret missing so many great legends but at the time I was a poor VU English major. But....some of the ones that stick out in my mind were Joni Mitchell with Chris Smithers as warm up, James Taylor, Tim Harden (who played two songs and walked off the stage), The Flying Burrito Brothers, Manhattan Transfer, Tom Rush, and the John Mayall Blues Band. The opening acts were often fantastic and truly inspiring. I hung out there from about '66 to '71 and it was a priviledge to hear such budding musicians. The ones I missed - Bonnie Raitt, Doc Watson, Velvet Underground, Cat Stevens (cancelled)and many others who are now legends but were then unknowns. James Taylor sat down with an old Gribson an played a new song he had just written called "Fire and Rain".......
Jane A Gordon said…
Wow- that photo of Steve Goodman, John Prine and Bonnie Raitt brought memories flooding back. I worked briefly at The Main Point until they realized I was only 14 years old. That night, at 15, I was sitting in the front row.

Jane
Polly said…
Just ran across this video tribute to Jeanette Campbell and the Main Point, uploaded to YouTube last year. Awesome ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk9ErlBpX3M
CK said…
I attended the Main Point's concerts many times, seeing Tom Paxton, McCaslin and Ringer, Bill Staines, Doc Watson, Loudon Wainwright, Jackson Browne, Eric Andersen, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, Dave Van Ronk, and others. I played there once too, as the opening act for Home Cooking, a local bluegrass band. The place was an integral part of my musical education. Thanks for the information and for stirring up some memories.
Anonymous said…
I worked as a cashier/announcer at the club in its last days. The club sat no more than 200 if I recall. I remember paying the take of the night - about $15 to a 10 member jazz band. Also, I remember being one of 10 people to see Townes Van Zandt. I was embarassed for him. I loved the people I saw and miss the club.
Anonymous said…
I saw Martin Mull (And His Travelling Furniture), with Tom Waits as the opener. We did the 2nd show (9:30?), and stood in the cold on the sidewalk for at least an hour, probably longer. Mull comes out, thanks us for being such loyal fans to stand in the cold for him, while he - the star - gets to stay inside. Then the staff came out and passed out free coffee.
Ilona E said…
I grew up in Drexel Hill and going to the Main Point was a big date! At the time we really didn't know how important many of these artists would become. I was always amazed looking back that so many top performers had played at the Main Point. We, who went there, we luckier than we realized.
Donna said…
I was trying to tell a young niece about the Point, now I can just send her this link! Thanks so much. And John, were you there the night Buddy Guy played right on out the door to Lancaster Avenue?
Marty said…
I hope someone can help me. I took my future wife on our first date to the Main Point in either late Novemeber or December of 1973.
We saw a group called "If" and the second act was Bonnie Raitt. If anyone could tell me the date. We have been married over 33 years and in 2013 will be the forthy year we been together...thanks.
Tom 7/1/12 said…
Grew up in Havertown, hung out at Medley Music, worked at Saccetti's, jammed at the Coffee House. My world at the time was music, and The Main Point was ground zero. I told my 4 children, who all play, about the acts, the venue, and the great people and they passed it off as geezer talk, until I showed them this site. They simply could not believe that the boss, Browne, Taylor, et al, played in a place no bigger than our house. And that the acts LOVED it! A special time and place. My best memory, eating gourmet burgers at H.A. Winston's with David Byrne and walking down the street to see him with Talking Heads. Amazing
Polly Turner said…
A number of Main Point shows can be found in audio form on YouTube:

Jackson Browne at the Main Point, Sept. 7, 1975 — "Song for Adam": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drDIDzGHoV0
AND "Hasten Down the Wind": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuRy9fw5yZ0

Warren Zevon performs "Werewolves of Bryn Mawr" ("Werewolves of London) live at the Main Point, 1976. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6b2XTSMkAk

Snipz plays the Main Point, 1979 (Super 8 recording) — http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC32sd9ObmQ

If you do a search on YouTube with these key words — "springsteen" "main point" — you'll find a whole bunch of videos that contain audio mainly from two live shows at the Main Point with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. One was on Feb. 5, 1975 (a benefit concert for the Point — I was there!), the other was on April 24, 1973. Both were broadcast on WMMR FM. The one of "Incident on 57th Street" at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRl9Vy3ymA8&feature=related even has the familiar sound of a siren on Lancaster Ave. at the tail end of the song.

"Walking the Dog" is from an Oct. 31, 1973, late show with Springsteen at the Main Point. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0AcR2zrA7k
Joyce said…
What a trip down memory lane! The music and atmosphere were great.I still remember Larry Ahearn telling me that red heads would take over the world! A real special place and time.
Anonymous said…
ecreme16I remember my first wife dragging me out to see some guy named Bruce something ...I sat first row to his left...never forget that show...saw him every time after that until he got real big...The Main Point was the best....saw so many great people there.
Roy Gattinella said…
Nice re-cap...Main Point memories last forever! One of my favorites was David Sancious (Springsteen's keyboard player) who killed it on keys and then strapped on a 12-string electric guitar and blew the roof off the joint. Barry Miles & Silverlight, Martin Mull, Bonnie, Chris Smither...so many. Miss that place.
Jack Hickey said…
Played there for a Sunday Hootenanny with my old band "Solomon Kane"...after playing the last chord, heard DEAD SILENCE for 2 seconds...then one guy yelled, "YEAH!!" and we got a resounding applause! Spent the next few seconds waiting for my heart to re-start!!! *grin*
Can't say enough about the place....the owners, staff, sound engineer,...all the folks there were INCREDIBLE PEOPLE!! Miss "The Point" very much!!
Unknown said…
I remember seeing Jimmy Page at the Main Point, he was producing a group called Pretty Things who performed there. He may have gotten up and performed with them a little.

Amy
Anonymous said…
Wow the memories. I remember standing ourside in the freezing cold waiting in line to get in through the gift shop. Seeing the acts there in such an intimate setting was awesome,acts like John Prine, Bruce, Jonathan Edwards to name a few. Loved the ginger bread!!! Thanks for posting. Once a in a lifetime experiences.
Anonymous said…
In addition to all the legends, this was a great place to give a start to locals. Who can forget Steve Goodman sharing the stage with local legends like Ken Ulansey or Sweet Stavin Chain -- and Danny Starobin z"l strutting his stuff and wailing outrageously. Or the freezing rain, ice, snow outside -- before they would open the doors and let us into the warmth. Or Garnett and Stan Rogers blowing us away? Thanks for the great memories,
Anonymous said…
Im HUGE ZEVON fan along with many of the other legends that played at the main point.. Im 32--- both my parents were regular patrons in the 70's and growing up all i heard about was how fantastic a venue the main point was..ahoooooooo wherewolves of port richmond
Anonymous said…
found this site after Lou Reed died. Saw him in 1973, with the amazing twin-guitar attack of the “Rock and Roll Animal” LP lineup, in the Main Point, a coffeehouse near Philly. The crack band filled the tiny stage, the RnR was transformative and incredibly LOUD! Lou fell off the front of the stage, as he sang like a fiend with his eyes squeezed shut. He got back up and ripped it! I still practice "Sweet Jane" on my Telecaster, at night with the lights out. RIP and thanks, Lou.

Also saw James Taylor's first, Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee, John Cale, Leonard Cohen, and maybe 30 more, including Bruce at least 5 times (listening to his Main Point concert listed above- thx!)... What a place, eh guys?? Thakns for the memories.... James.
LBrooke said…
Don't forget that The Main Point was more than just a "folk club." It also hosted many jazz-rock fusion pioneers whom I saw during the early/mid-1970s including Chick Corea's Return to Forever; Larry Coryell's 11th House, and The Tony Williams Lifetime. These full-electric bands with titanic dummers were ear-bleedingly loud; my tinnitus today (at 57 yrs old) was probably inititated at TMP during that period. Also caught the amazing Rasaan Roland Kirk's acoustic jazz band there in spring 1974--what a show!
d.steele said…
Glory Days! That they where!God Bless you miss Campbell.Me and Chuck(wioq) Best stage manager job we ever had! Thanks to all! d.steele
Anonymous said…
The good old days at the Main Point..having grown up in King of Prussia, I was able to see Michael Cooney, the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, Dave VanRonk, Eric Anderson a md Steve Gillette numerous times. it was a great venue of a type that doesn't exist today. great memories.
Unknown said…
Just one correction: One of the live broadcasts from 1976 was not Warren Zevon but actually it was Jackson Browne and David Lindley, who performed for a whole week, as part of a fund raising effort for the Point. Jackson was working on producing Zevon's first album, which is why he included the WZ song. Had the show on tape but has long since been lost in the shuffle. I loved the Main Point, from the first act I saw there (Melanie, back in Aug/1969, right after she appeared at Woodstock) and even had the honor of performing there myself (as a member of Home Cookin', in Jan/1978). One of the most magical venues I have ever experienced. I thank you for that wonderful trip down memory lane. It was nice remembering all the shows, that I had seen there, over the years.
Anonymous said…
A monument!
Eileen K. said…
What fond memories! I grew up in King of Prussia and would take the P & W trolly to Bryn Mawr and walk a block or 2 to The Main Point and try to be the first in line to get a front row seat.I was a huge Don McClean fan and would see the 8:00 show, exit, then stand in line for the 10:00 show. I think tickets were a whopping $3.00. One night, David Buskin opened for Don mcClean and he blew me away. David went on to be a popular performer at the Philly Folk Fest along with his side kick Robin Batteau. One snowy night in February I saw Jimmy Buffet with my sister. It was a very small crowd and he invited everyone back to his hotel room at the St.Davids Inn to party. My sister really wanted to go but I chickened out. Oh how I wish we would have went!
Nick Mariotti said…
Just thinking about the Point led me to this blog and the wonderful memories of some great musical times. Scrolling down through the comments I find my former bandmate John Coleman-Gilson just above. Playing the Point that night as part of Home Cookin' (it was February 1, 1978) was a great thrill and an honor as the Point was a legendary venue. What a thrill it was to play on the same stage as had so many great artists. John, I still have the 4-track master of that show recorded by Lane Massey on my Teac as he ran our sound and I have CD copies of it. Got to send you one!
Nick Mariotti said…
Enjoyed reminiscing the Point and the many great shows and acts who performed there. Scrolling through the comments I see my former bandmate John Coleman-Gilson just above. What a thrill and honor it was to play the Point that night as part of Home Cookin'! (It was February 1, 1978) John, I still have the 4-track master of that show night recorded by Lane Massey on my Teac reel to reel as he ran our sound. Got to send you a CD of it!
Bill said…
Very cool postings. We saw Rick Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker there in 69-70.
prrbill said…
There were times in hindsight that I wish I had snuck a small recorder in with me as some of those 'lost' performances were absolutely priceless. Luckily, some people who worked there have also posted which adds to the richness of your page. And there are those YouTube files. :)
Unknown said…
Does anyone remember the benefit concert for the Main Point that was held at a downtown Philly theatre in about 1979? Joni Mitchell, Bonnie Raitt, Tom Waits and a whole bunch more showed up to bail the place out. My buddy Jerry and I were working at the Main Point at the time. We showed up at Mrs. Campbell's the day of the show to run an errand for her and she gave us front row center seats for the benefit. What a show!
Katie Blake said…
Walking into the Main Point was like entering a different country – like stepping off Lancaster Pike into the “Embassy of Real Music” where we all had diplomatic immunity from "Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” and got to listen to music that made us think and rant and laugh and believe that we really could change the world. When it was packed, you could feel the performers listening and adapting their work to match the mood and soul of the audience, and the audience responding right back, until it almost felt like we were creating this music together. It made you want to stand up and scream - “THIS is music.”
none said…
Cheech & Chong opening for Bonnie Raitt and being 15 feet from Clarance Clemens and the boss were the best. The ice cream sundays with walnuts and caramel are also worth mentioning.
Glenn McCurdy said…
Made The Main Point a regular stop during my years at Haverford College and later on as a writer and photographer for the Main Line Times. I have scanned most of those images and placed them in a special gallery located at my Fine Art America site. Please check them out at glennmccurdyfineartamerica. Thanks.
Unknown said…
Hello everyone! I fondly remember seeing Tom Rush at The Main Point. I also befriended the owner, Jeanette Campbell and her daughter because they used to do business at the hardware store across the street where I worked. Those of you who are from the area probably recall the big white plaster horse that stood outside the store and was a well-known landmark along that stretch of Lancaster Avenue. When the club finally had to close in 1981 and the building was bought by Mapes 5&10, I asked Ms. Campbell if I could buy the sign from her. She wanted to give it me for free and told me to just go ahead and take it if I wanted it. I insisted on giving her a token $10, and then the following morning I went over with a ladder and some tools and took the sign down. I built a frame for it and have been storing it in my attic ever since. I am now ready to consider selling this one of a kind item. If anyone is interested, please contact me at cbarry12@gmail.com. Thank you.
Glenn McCurdy said…
Main Point concerts were intimate and unforgettable. Artists seemed to enjoy the family atmosphere and brought something unique to each and every performance. The photos I took of Bonnie Raitt, Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee, Doc Watson & Son are among my favorite images from a lifetime of collecting images.
Anonymous said…
Saw James Taylor last night at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida with about 10,000 other fans and it made me think about seeing him at the Main Point with about 200. Still have the napkin on which I wrote a poem about Livingston Taylor while watching him perform. Two others that I did not see mentioned here, Gil Scott Heron, Joy of Cooking. The Main Point, a place of special musical memories.
Anonymous said…
Wow! What a trip down memory lane. Sampling of acts I saw there: Cat Stevens, Velvet Underground, Dave Van Ronk, Fairport Convention, Joy of Cooking, Doc Watson, Chick Corea, John Sebastian, Bonnie Raitt, Ry Cooder, James Taylor and many more that I can't remember. We used to rotate venues, depending on the acts, between the Main Point, the Spectrum, the Electric Factory and a place on South Street which name escapes me. Those were the days when you could see a great act without having to pay an arm and a leg. Loved reading the comments.
Anonymous said…
Loved working there from Oct.'71 to May'76 (waitress). Loved the staff and stage crew, Mrs. Campbell (out of respect no one called her by her first name), the performers from Mose Allison to Warren Zevon. During an acapella concert by Odette and as I was fumbling with my food tray & orders under low lighting, she Odette, stopped singing and stared me down for making the floor boards creak. My customers had to wait til the end of the show to get their orders because she would not sing while people were walking across the floor. She was a tough act to work thru.
My fondest memories working with: Geri v.E. & George G., Renie T., Jack L., Richard, Vince, Larry A., Nina S., Kathy R., Constance G., Margo G., Allison L., and so many more, and last but not least, Joni van Engers who before I got a job and worked there would sneak me in thru the back door countless times because she was a great gal and a good friend of mine.
Anonymous said…
Loved working there from Oct.'71 to May'76 (waitress). Loved the staff and stage crew, Mrs. Campbell (out of respect no one called her by her first name), the performers from Mose Allison to Warren Zevon. During an acapella concert by Odette and as I was fumbling with my food tray & orders under low lighting, she Odette, stopped singing and stared me down for making the floor boards creak. My customers had to wait til the end of the show to get their orders because she would not sing while people were walking across the floor. She was a tough act to work thru.
My fondest memories working with: Geri v.E. & George G., Renie T., Jack L., Richard, Vince, Larry A., Nina S., Kathy R., Constance G., Margo G., Allison L., and so many more, and last but not least, Joni van Engers who before I got a job and worked there would sneak me in thru the back door countless times because she was a great gal and a good friend of mine.
Anonymous said…
This was the place. Chick Corea and Return to Forever in'74. Dave Van Ronk, Steeleye Span, David Bromerg, Jaime Brockett, Bruce, so many times in'73.James Taylor, Billy Joel, Rahssan Roland Kirk. Wire and Wood. What a great home for those tender years of my life.
Dick Silverman said…
Was anybody else at the late 1970's Mainpoint performance of Randy Newman, when the young opening act with a thick mass of black, curly hair & a Long Island,, NY accent named Billy Joel had just started playing when the local electricity went off? The band couldn't continue playing but since ultimate entertainer Billy's piano could still be heard, he started banging out popular TV show themes the audience eagerly yelled out the names of! The power returned after just 10 minutes or so, but the crowd had enjoyed his game so much, they seemed almost dissapointed it ended!
Dick Silverman
Port Washington, NY
Mark Rosenthal said…
I grew up in Northeast Philly, so getting to The Main Point wasn't exactly convenient. But around 1966 and 1967 many of my high school friends would drive across town on Friday nights to go to performances there. I remember begging my mother to let me go, but she'd been convince by her afternoon soap operas that if I went to a place like that I'd end up dropping LSD and become a heroin addict! My begging finally wore her down after about 6 months. So one Friday evening about 7 or 8 of us crammed into a car designed for 6 and drove over to the Main Line. The performer that night was wonderful - Eric Anderson. And the nearest thing to drugs was The Main Point's Hot Honeyed Lemonade - addictive!

For the rest of high school, and whenever I was visiting home during college, I tried to get to the Main Point whenever I could, which unfortunately turned out to be only a few times a year. I do remember seeing Jim Kweskin one time and Chris Smither another time. I know I saw lots of other performers as well, but it's long enough ago that I can't remember who I saw there and who I saw elsewhere. I really wish I'd been there for the Steve Goodman, John Prine, Bonnie Raitt show!

After college I moved to Cambridge, Mass. where Club Passim (formerly Club 47) filled the niche for Boston that The Main Point did for Philly. But The Main Point had a flavor all its own. It's sad to read of Jeanette Campbell's passing.
Unknown said…
The Main Point was a safe haven for me. A place where you did not feel awkward going to alone, and a bonding place if you brought the right "date". I was a musician, still am, and I learned much about performing and playing, being able get face to face with some of the best artists of our generation. I took it all in, the singer/songwriters, duets, trios, and even blues bands complete with horns, cranked guitars, harps, and yes...drums, which were a rarity as I remember. I had a front row seat for Bonnie in a t-shirt and a bottle of Jack. "The Boss" in a t-shirt sitting at a piano and dedicating a song "to all the women and their gynecologists". It was real life, down and dirty, but always a great show. Like many experiences during my life at that time period, it is just a surreal memory, an escape from a world that had just begun to go crazy.
Glenn McCurdy said…
Was a regular at The Point back in the late 1950s and then covered it as a writer and photographer at the Main Line Times. Flash photos were discouraged so everything was existing light with high speed developers. Brownie and Sony, Doc Watson and Bonnie Rait were some of my favorites plus Erik Andersen whose story I sent along to the Tribune Syndicate in Chicago. Unforgetable veue. Would like to include some photo here if I can get permission???
Glenn McCurdy said…
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Anonymous said…
There's one name that I haven't seen in any of the several sites about this wonderful venue. Anyone remember the mellifluous pice answering the phone, "Robbie Robinson, Main Point"?
William Kates said…
To Glenn McCurdy - I would love to publish your Main Point photos. Please write to me at wkates@outlook.com.
William Kates
Music & More
BobH said…
I saw George Carlin there twice, and 1 time the opening act was 2 guys calling themselves Travis Shook and the Club Wow. About a year ago, I ran into Travis Shook in New England, and when I mentioned that memory, he told me that the Main Point was where they first met Carlin, and they had a 20-year career opening for him after that. So many wonderful memories of the Main Point. Springsteen, Lou Reed, Robert Klein, Manhattan Transfer, Larry Coryell, Emmet Robinson, Wire & Wood, many more. I remember seeing Denny Dougherty (of the Mammas & Pappas, with a total of 5 people in the audience.
Bill Swartley said…
I went to the Point while in high school, 1965-66. Really loved Len Chanler. He was an amazing performer who could compose almost as he sang. Once when the fire sirens rang across the street, he drifted into verses that perfectly matched the never ending shrieks across the street! He was amazing. One night we went to the men's room in the basement before the show. Out of one of the stalls came Gordon Lightfoot. "You're Gordon LIghtfoot," says I (very observant in those days). "Yes I am," says he. "I'd like to shake you hand," I said. He looked at me for a long moment then stuck out his hand. "Well, if you really want to, go ahead. But it just touched my cock." What crazy memories.
Glenn McCurdy said…
Enjoyed The Main Point both as a fan of folk music, as someone who enjoyed this "one of a kind" setting and as a writer-photographer. Published articles on a series of artists including Doc Watson, Bonnie Raitt and Erik Andersen. In the case of Andersen a Sunday Magazine article entitled "The Making of a Folk Rock Legend" was published all over America and helped Erik's career....until he decided to migrate to Europe for reasons unknown to me. Candid images of these artists and more can be seen at glennmccurdyfineartamerica.
Unknown said…
Hi Bernardo, I went to those exact same shows with friends. I wonder if you and I used to hang out together?! I remember James introducing that song too!
Unknown said…
Howdy folks. I am far too young to remember the Main Point (it was a comic book store when I was a kid) but I am now a carpenter and I work for the developer who owns the building. We are currently framing up and drywalling over the existing walls. I just thought you guys would be heartened to know that the columns that were on either side of the stage are still plastered with sheet music. I did a little research online and found a young Springsteen sitting at a piano and sure enough there was one of the columns behind him. Newer sheet music was added later on in some spots but you can still clearly see some of the original lacquered sheet in that photo. When we frame over the columns the sheets will continue to be untouched for (hopefully) decades. I plan on making a copy of the Boss photo I found on the Web as well as a copy of the Main Point Wikipedia page and placing them behind the framing next to the column.
Unknown said…
Howdy folks. I am far too young to remember the Main Point (it was a comic book store when I was a kid) but I am now a carpenter and I work for the developer who owns the building. We are currently framing up and drywalling over the existing walls. I just thought you guys would be heartened to know that the columns that were on either side of the stage are still plastered with sheet music. I did a little research online and found a young Springsteen sitting at a piano and sure enough there was one of the columns behind him. Newer sheet music was added later on in some spots but you can still clearly see some of the original lacquered sheet in that photo. When we frame over the columns the sheets will continue to be untouched for (hopefully) decades. I plan on making a copy of the Boss photo I found on the Web as well as a copy of the Main Point Wikipedia page and placing them behind the framing next to the column.
Joe Parsons said…
What a wonderful article--it brought back some lovely memories!

I was one of the "regulars" at the Main Point in 1964. I emceed and sang occasionally, but I was also the de facto house photographer, so cameras were definitely allowed, at least in the early days. I started out using a vintage Rolleiflex, then moved on to Leica. Everything was available light.

Good times. I have no idea what ultimately happened to my photos. I know my personal prints and negatives have long since disappeared.

Joe Parsons
Heather Fowler said…
I liked Peter's comment! Thank you for preserving it. Early childhood memories for me I am Jeanette's granddaughter, I remember that stage well. Great to hear that something original is still saved in the building.
Richard said…
I heard that Martin and Tom dashed down the street post-show,and slightly disguised sat on the sidewalk as non-descript buskers.
Richard said…
wow.where do i start ? The Main Point was a very important place in my young musical life.It was the early and mid-seventies when i had the bread and transportation to get there from SJ.I remember Steeleye Span,Linda Rhonstadt, Steve Goodman , Little Feat ,and so many more.Stand-outs incl.one of the legendary Jackson Browne/ David Lindely benefit shows.Somewhere in a box i have reel to reel tapes from WMMR of most of those benefits,incl.the Springstein one.I was managing a little known SJ band named Wilmont Mews ,featuring my now famous friend blues guitarist Walter Trout.We did a Sub.afternoon audition ,which got us a slot opening for Asleep At The Wheel. Just before the audtion,we slipped out the kitchen door to smoke :},and ran into David Lindley chatting up a beautiful young MP waitress.We invited him to join in,and our crew's older musical sage..Pete Curry...blew David's mind by telling him he had a very early and rare banjo alblum David recorded in the early Sixties ! If that wasnt enough of a memory , the band setting up later and sound checking was the original RETURN TO FOREVER.....Chick,Stanley,and gang Flora Purim and Airto !
Later on in the late Seventies i was hanging pre show w friend Eric Hening and his agent/clients The Nighthawks .
They were playing the Point that night,and we were all expecting Greg Allman to show up w Cher.He was talking about actually joining the Hawks, and i believe played a local college w them the next day.He never showed up, which wasnt a big surprise at that point in his career.
Dennis Wilen said…
Here's Jackson Browne and David Lindley live at the Main Point in my WMMR radio concert performing "Werewolves of London"

https://soundcloud.com/dwilen/jackson-browne-live-1975-werewolves-of-london
Unknown said…
Had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Campbell at a private party when I was invited by my friend Debbie Schwartz. A couple of my favorite shows were seeing Don McLean and Richie Havens there. I usually went with my mom. My brother K. C. worked in the kitchen and I recall him doing some songs at the amateur showcase.
Ken said…
What a wonderful place. I lived in Abington but went there regularly in high school and college. Enjoyed reading the memories above and recalling some of the shows I went to, including Chris Smithers, Ralph McTell, Martin Mull, David Buskin, Liv Taylor,Tom Rush and I think Bonnie Raitt, many others. It was all so long ago. Not a bad seat in the place for sound or view, tickets reasonable, lots of new young acts and folk veterans. Glad to have made it. Thank you Main Point. Later found one of my brother's friends, Dave Fricke (editor at Rolling Stone)managed it for awhile. I saw the American Dream too, but not there--with Iron Butterfly in Allentown! Remember them? Jerry Jeff Walker. Bromberg.....
Ken said…
John Prine was wonderful. Tom Paxton
Michael Walsh said…
The Bar across the street was the " Cripple Creek", later became " You bet Your Life",
frequented by the performers at the Main Point, esp. Warren Zevon, Jackson Browne, and countless others
Unknown said…
The Ripley? Dobbs? Grendel Lair? TLA?
Elaine said…
When I was a student at Eastern University and later Bryn Mawr, I went every Thursday night. Such memories! I have a copy of the 10th Anniversary piece and look at it often to remember all those great nights. My most powerful experience was when John Denver sang Tom Paxton's "Jimmie Newman" and the audience was so overwhelmed that there was just silence. At the time, my brother (Jimmy) was serving in Viet Nam and I couldn't listen to the song again for years. I'd just pick up the needle on my turntable and move it to the next song.

I live in Dallas now and we have "Uncle Calvin's" for a coffee house venue. Not the same, but it does invoke memories.
Anonymous said…
Just found this after a friend posted one of the performer pages from '64-'74. I was there a lot through high school (Penncrest HS '68) my friends and enjoyed the inexpensive entry and quality folk music-as I recall, Thurs and Sunday tix were 2.50- Fri/Sat more but not by much. Was at James Taylor's first show there when he was so shy, he barely looked up, and I do not recall him saying one word other than to sing. Another time a kid from Long Island and his two compadres opened for someone I went to see - that kid was Billy Joel.So much wonderful music there going back to the hard core early folkies- Cooney, Anderson, Sky, Washington, Chandler.Watson. A really amazing and rich run- so glad I was there.
Unknown said…
A few years ago I posted on this topic that I have the original sign that hung over the doorway. I got it from Jeanette Campbell when she sold the building to Mapes 5&10. Contact me if interested in purchasing it. Chris B. 215-859-3441.
Unknown said…
Just reread this blog. I did not think that people still made comments. There were many great moments mentioned in this blog and my husband and I got to see almost all of them. However no one mentioned that John Denver did one of his first solo performances there in 1967. At the time he was a new member of the Mitchell Trio and they were supposed to appear at the Point at the end of June or July 4th 1967. We got advanced tickets and bummed a ride with another couple who had a car.(It was our celebration of our 1st wedding anniversary) When we got there they apologized and offered to refund our money or give us back half and stay to watch the one member of the trio that was sent. We stayed and were we glad. John Denver played to a half full house and we stayed to watch the second show and got to talk to him in between. From 1969 to the very end we where regular customers. We even joked about we could use season passes. Eventually they did do a multi-ticket discount and they gave us the first one. One comedian that was not mentioned was George Carlin. His first night the fire siren went off in the middle of his set(the point did not warn performers just to see their reactions) George was in the middle of one of his Catholic school routines when the alarm went off. He did not miss a beat. He dropped to his knees and did an irreverent prayer that was really great.
We helped paint the point. Toward the end there was a committee formed to help save it and we helped with various fund raisers and we were at the closing party.
IF YOU HAVE A REAL INTEREST I HAVE MANY OF THE XPN LIVE SHOWS ON REEL TO REEL TAPES TAKEN OFF THE AIR. MY CHILDREN HAVE NO INTEREST IN THEM. SOME OF THE TAPES HAVE NOT HELD UP. I WANT SOMEONE TO TREASURE THEM AND TAKE CARE OF THEM. THERE IS A REEL TO REEL DECK TO GO WITH THEM. NO CHARGE !!
Unknown said…
my husband and I went to the main pt from 1968 to the closing party in 81. I have an offer. This is a free offer. My husband is now deceased and the collection was his baby. I have many reel to reel tapes and a deck to play them back. On these tapes are many of the WMMR and WXPN live concerts from the point( off the air). Just contact me at tbkuhar@gmail.com You must come and get them! My children want no part of them and have said they will just trash them.
Unknown said…
I was also at a show when the fire alarm went off. It was David Sancious, Bruce's first piano player. He did an interesting impromptu to accompany the siren. Pretty cool.
Robert Manno said…
I believe that prior to The Main Point, that same space was called "The Edge." I performed there in 1962 as a jazz pianist in a Trio (with Walter Robinson, bass and Marty Schotz, drums). Does anyone have a recollection of "The Edge?"
Sara S said…
Wonderful to read the article and all the comments. The Main Point and all those performers were a major part of my high school life, keeping me sane in the mid-late 60s. I remember Chris Smither opening for Bonnie R, and Andy Robinson opening for Janis Ian, both those openers later headling (and lately have wondered whatever happened to Andy), Doc, Eric Andersen, Josh White Jr, Brownie McGee & Sonny Terry, Tom Rush, Ian &Sylvia, and the list goes on and on. Best brownies and hot cider.
I moved to Berkeley in the early 70s and discovered the Freight and Salvage, which was much like the Point, including fantastic brownies. Show room was a bit smaller with an array of 2nd hand chairs and sofas. Many local and some famous folks from beyond the Bay Area. Saw Malvina Reynolds and Kate Wolf there, Laurie Lewis (a local who's still there regularly). The Freight has since grown and grown, in its 3rd location, now downtown and upscale, but still fairly intimate at 450 maximum seating. Performers so often say it's one of their favorite venues. And I'm fortunate to still see some favorites from Main Point: Tom Rush, Tom Paxton (just there a couple weeks ago!), Janis Ian, Chris Smither, Dave Bromberg there once a year or so, and so many others, nationally famous and not famous at all, all of them excellent in their own way. and I've so much appreciation for the Point pointing my way to appreciating live, acoustic music. May it live on in our hearts. And blessings and gratitude to the woman who started it. RIP
Anonymous said…
Like everyone, thanks for posting such a beautiful memory. Having seen many shows there, one stands out for me.

I just saw Tom Rush, the other night at the Sellersville Theatre. I met him in the lobby, as he was signing his CD's for folks. I told him, that through the years I always remembered the first time I saw and met him, which was at The Main Point. A perfect venue for music.

The Main Point and Tom Rush, will always have special place in my heart.
Anonymous said…
Saw Terry/McGee, Return to Forever (with Bill Connors and Airto), and James Cotton (with Matt Murphy) in 1973. I believe it was at the first of these shows that the opening act was an unrecorded trio called Orleans.
Kerry Britton said…
Thanks for posting this and thanks to all the commenters for their stories and memories. I actually cut the ribbon on the stage for the opening night...I was five...but somewhere there is a picture of it. My dad was one of the original partners with Jeanette Campbell. It was a big part of our family history even though my parents were only directly involved briefly and my sisters performed there many times. A very special place, indeed!
Thanks again to all for sharing their memories.
Unknown said…
Teresa,
I would love to have the tapes if they are still available. russellwoessner@gmail.com
Unknown said…
I would love to have the tapes. Thanks.
Unknown said…
aahhh... sounds like william kates and i ought to have known each other. i'm sure we must have sat "together" at the point more than once. we likely "met" on the line for that july 70 james taylor show--but i managed to get in along with the two non-driving friends of my sister who were paying my way so i would chauffeur them across town to see jaaaaaames. after the show, i was hooked on the main point, james taylor AND manhattan transfer, decked out as a bunch of country bumpkins, performing with gene pistilli. "guided missile" still stands out in my memory.

i was hooked, borrowing my parents' car as often as i could to drive out the main line. john prine, malvina reynolds, jackson browne, david bromberg, steve goodman, ellen mcilwhaine, jesse colin young(?), chris smither, steeleye span, doc and merle, and on and on. and of course bonnie and freebo--i fell in love at first sight. saw every philly area show of hers for many years, and a bunch of places far away. probably still in love now.

next i followed sara s to berkeley in 76. we probably "met" at the main point in not-quite -philly, then on to the freight and salvage on san pablo many times, and/or addison street before they moved yuptown. i recorded numerous shows at addison street for kpfa. so many ways i do so much with these friends i don't really know.
Unknown said…
Does anyone remember seeing Elton John at The Main Point in 1970?
NickN said…
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
NickN said…
My younger brother and sister and I were there at least a couple times a month. We would take the train from Philly and walk the couple blocks to the club. So many great shows Sandy Denny with Richard Thompson, Pearls before Swine and Good News numerous times. Michael Cooney, Jamie Brockett and so many more. On nights when it was a light/crowd and we were able to stay for more than one set, it was often a race back to the train station to catch the last train. I remember seeing Linda Ronsdat with a college buddy we were like two loivesick kids. So many wonderful memories.






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