The late Elmer Valentine, co-founder of Whisky A Go-Go, was remembered by friends and fans who gathered Jan. 26 at the rock club he put so much heart into. Outside, the unveiling of street sign bearing his name was witnessed by business partner Lou Adler, left, Michelle Phillips of the Mamas & the Papas and actor friend Jack Nicholson. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Johnny Rivers was Whisky A Go-Go’s opening act in 1964. In his extended run there, he and the club grew famous together. He returned Jan. 26 to participate in a big way. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
The Doors were among the acts to occupy the Whisky’s stage. The group’s drummer, John Densmore, performed the drum roll that launched the Jan. 26 festivities. Densmore said he never met a music club owner “who cared more” than Elmer Valentine. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Daughter Kim Valentine speaks at the tribute. Grandson Cameron Valentine is at her side, and producer-business partner Lou Adler, who co-organized the event, is in the background. Elmer Valentine, co-founder of Whisky A Go-Go, died in December. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
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British bluesman John Mayall performed with Johnny Rivers, foreground, at the Elmer Valentine tribute at Whisky A Go-Go. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Johnny Rivers lets loose. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Byrds co-founder Chris Hillman returned to the Whisky stage to pay tribute to Elmer Valentine.
Update: An earlier version of this slide misspelled Chris Hillman’s name as Chris Hellmen. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
John Mayall lets the music flow at the tribute. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
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The Whisky’s marquee lists the night’s attraction. Lou Adler, who co-organized the event, stands below. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
