Music fae the barras

The charm of the Barrowlands ballroom, is as important to the venue as the acts which play there, its walls filled with as much history as they are music.

Barrowlands 1940

The original building opened in 1934. Tradition has it that the the entrepenuer behind the 'barras' market, Maggie McIver, built the hall to host her annual Christamas party for the markets stall owners. The venue packed in the fox-trotters and tango-turners throughout the 1930's, with American serviceman racily introducing jitterbugging and jiving during the second world war.

Tradgedy hit the Barrowlands in 1958, as Maggie died in June and the premises was gutted by fire in September. However, Maggie's family rebuilt the venue in her memory and the venue was reopened in 1960, intact with the iconic neon sign we all know today.

With the decline of dancehall culture and the increase in pop and rock, the ballroom has evolved into a concert venue. Although it has a modest capacity of 2100, the Barrowlands consistently attracts top name performers.

Quick facts about the Barrowlands

• 1960's serial killer Bible John is beleived to have met his victims at dances in the Barrowlands.
• Simple Minds filmed their 1983 single, Waterfront at the Barrowlands.
• Was voted best UK venue in a Radio 1 poll of 60 bands.

The Barrowlands has a huge catalogue of impressive artists that have graced its dancefloor. Bands who have went on to become superstars have commonly played when they were relativly unknown at the barras. If you fancy a nosy, here is a full list of artists to have played at the venue.

Ed Sheeran's a Sell Out!

However, The Barrowlands probably gains its reputation more from the atmosphere it prohibits than the acts it hosts. The typical enthusiasm of the Scottish crowds, mixed with great sound and just the right amount of intimacy makes for a great venue!

So if you dont mind getting a wee bit sweaty, squeeshed and maybe the odd cup of beer over you in the name of great live music, get yersel doon the barras!