The club at 315 Bowery central to New York’s 1970s punk scene was CBGB.
Hilly Kristal opened CBGB in Manhattan’s East Village in 1973. The initials originally stood for “Country, BlueGrass, and Blues,” reflecting Kristal’s intended musical focus. Instead, the venue became closely associated with a new downtown rock scene after bands such as Television, Patti Smith Group, and the Ramones performed there.
CBGB’s small stage and rough atmosphere made it an important proving ground for emerging artists. The club also hosted acts connected with the broader New York underground, including Blondie and Talking Heads. Its influence extended beyond punk because it provided a regular home for experimental local musicians.
CBGB closed in 2006 after a dispute over its lease. Max’s Kansas City was another important New York venue, but CBGB is the specific club associated with the Bowery address in this question.