The Sunset Strip’s renowned Rainbow Bar and Grill is one of the all-time mecca's of music; a "church of rock and roll" that has undoubtedly borne witness to the wildest tales of excess. In a new documentary simply called The Rainbow, the venues rich and pivotal history will be recounted in interviews with a host of high-profile rockers – including, Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash, Ozzy Osbourne, Kiss bassist Gene Simmons – and also features one of the last recorded interviews with late Motorhead leader Lemmy, who was the Rainbow’s most steadfast patron.  

The Rainbow was opened in 1972 by Mario Maglieri, a lover of music with a blindness to Rockstar antics who was affectionately known as ‘The King of Sunset Strip.’ Maglieri had previously opened the nearby Whiskey a Go Go in 1964, a venue that showcased countless rock acts, among them The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin and Guns N’ Roses. With these iconic venues in close proximity, Maglieri created an epicentre of rock and roll and The Rainbow – a musician hangout haven – was at its heart. 

Regulars over the years included John Lennon, Alice Cooper and the Hollywood Vampires drinking society, members of Guns N’ Roses and many others. It’s also known as the place where John Belushi ate his final meal and was more or less home to Lemmy Kilmister, whose place at the bar was immortalised with a statue following his passing in 2016. 

"The Rainbow" Trailer

The film’s producers said in a statement: “Truly a lover of music and the arts, Mario helped hundreds of artists get their start in Los Angeles,”. “Hopefuls from all over the world came to the Rainbow with the desire of being discovered. He frequently came across talented musicians who went on to become platinum sellers. Their pictures line the walls of the Rainbow.”

“We are excited to release The Rainbow documentary as it is a true testament to rock and roll history.” 

If watching that trailer ignited a serious thirst, check out This Is Motorhead on Spotify:

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