Mario Maglieri, the Godfather of the Sunset Strip who founded Rainbow Bar & Grill, has died. He was 93.
Mario’s death was covered in the LATimes, numerous media outlets, and even made its way to the Drudge Report. Originally, the sad news was announced on the Rainbow’s Facebook page.
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A singular figure who owned two of the most enduring clubs in the neighborhood, the Whisky a Go Go and the Rainbow Bar & Grill, Maglieri fed musicians including Led Zeppelin, Cypress Hill, Guns N’ Roses, Motorhead and hundreds more and helped just as many land onstage. When the Rainbow opened in 1972, Elton John played the launch party.
“Dear Rainbow friends and family, it is with great sadness to announce the passing of our beloved Mario Maglieri. Owner and founder of The Rainbow Bar and Grill and The Whisky a Go Go. He passed this morning while surrounded by loved ones. We will announce services shortly. We ask that you please allow the family time to grieve. Thank you for your understanding.”
Mario Mikael Maglieri was born on Feb. 7, 1924, in Sepino, Italy, and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was a toddler. Before moving to Los Angeles in the early 1960s, Maglieri operated clubs and restaurants in Chicago, and relocated at the behest of his Chicago friend Elmer Valentine.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mario’s family and friends at this difficult time.
h/t latimes