Los Angeles’ iconic Hotel Café will host a charity showcase featuring rising artists on January 29, 2024, as it prepares to close its doors after 25 years. Located on Cahuenga Boulevard in Hollywood, the venue has been a cornerstone of the local music scene, nurturing emerging talent while also welcoming established artists for intimate performances.
In its final event, the Hotel Café Farewell Showcase, presented by OnesToWatch, will spotlight several up-and-coming musicians, including Em Beihold, Love Spells, Carlie Hanson, Niki Rubio, Debbii Dawson, and Victoria Canal. Proceeds from the event will support both the venue and Backline, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing mental health resources for professionals in the music industry.
Celebrating a Legacy
The Hotel Café has a rich history of fostering talent, having hosted artists like Sara Bareilles and Damien Rice early in their careers. Gia Hughes, the venue’s production manager, expressed her excitement for the farewell event, stating, “We can’t wait to welcome back these talented artists who had early shows at Hotel Café, taking a moment to reflect on our history on Cahuenga and the future of what’s to come.”
As the venue prepares to close, co-founders Marko Shafer and Max Mamikunian have announced plans to reopen in 2027 at a new location within the Lumina Hollywood building on Sunset and Gordon. They aim to preserve the soul and intimacy of the original venue while enhancing the experience for both artists and audiences.
Future Plans and Community Impact
In an announcement made via Instagram in November, the owners stated, “The expanded venue will honor the soul and intimacy of the original location, while offering a more modern, elevated experience for both artists and audiences.” They also highlighted their commitment to fostering music discovery and supporting independent and touring artists.
The upcoming showcase not only marks the end of an era for the Hotel Café but also emphasizes the importance of mental health in the creative community. By partnering with Backline, the venue seeks to address the wellness needs of artists and their families, ensuring that the legacy of support continues even after the doors close.
Ticket information for the charity event is available through the venue’s website. As the Hotel Café bids farewell to its current location, the music community looks forward to its next chapter and the continued support of emerging talent.
