On Wednesday 16 January 1957, the doors opened for the very first time to a warehouse cellar venue at 10 Mathew Street, Liverpool, called The Cavern Club. Though no one knew it at the time, this dark and somewhat dingy venue would become one of the hottest nightlife spots in Britain, and be instrumental in forging the biggest band in the world, The Beatles. Over the past six decades it has also hosted some of the music industry's biggest names including Stevie Wonder, The Who, The Rolling Stones and Queen - as well as Liverpool's very own Cilla Black, who once worked in the club as a cloakroom girl.
The stunning bronze figure was commissioned by her three sons Robert, Ben, and Jack who donated the statue to the city in memory of their mother. Standing on the spot of the original club entrance on Mathew Street, the statue is a fitting tribute to the singer who is known as ‘Liverpool’s Cinderella’.
Cilla’s son, Robert Willis, told eager fans at the unveiling:
We were overwhelmed by the incredible support after our mother died from the country but also, and especially, from the people of this great city. It was incredibly comforting and it moved us deeply and gave us hope at a time when we didn't have much hope. It was something that none of us will ever forget.”
The celebrate the club’s milestone birthday, there will be a charity concert at the city's Philharmonic Hall, featuring 60s tribute band The Overtures along with special guests, and a documentary film, album and book will also be released.
If you love music that never goes out of style subscribe to Uncut today for 28% off cover price.
Images: @cavernliverpool @cillablackobe
