Gilley's Saloon

Gilley's Saloon was a renowned honky-tonk bar and nightclub located in Pasadena, Texas. It gained widespread fame in the 1980s, largely due to its association with the 1980 film Urban Cowboy, which starred John Travolta and Debra Winger. The saloon was named after its co-owner, country music singer Mickey Gilley.

History

Gilley's Saloon was opened in 1971 by Mickey Gilley and Sherwood Cryer. The establishment quickly became a popular venue for country music and dancing. It featured a large dance floor, live music performances, and a mechanical bull, which became one of its most iconic attractions.

Cultural Impact

The release of Urban Cowboy significantly boosted the saloon's popularity, making it a cultural landmark of the 1980s. The film depicted the lifestyle and culture associated with Gilley's, bringing the honky-tonk experience to a broader audience. The soundtrack of the movie, which included songs by Mickey Gilley, also contributed to the saloon's fame.

Closure and Legacy

Gilley's Saloon closed its doors in 1989 after a fire damaged the building. Despite its closure, the legacy of Gilley's lives on. The brand has been revived in various forms, including a new Gilley's location in Las Vegas, Nevada, and the original site remains a point of interest for fans of country music and the Urban Cowboy era.

Notable Features

• Mechanical bull: One of the first bars to feature a mechanical bull, which became a symbol of the Urban Cowboy movement.
• Live performances: Hosted numerous country music stars, including Johnny Lee, Charlie Daniels, and Willie Nelson.
• Dance floor: Known for its large dance floor, which accommodated hundreds of dancers.

In Popular Culture

Gilley's Saloon has been referenced in various forms of media, including television shows, music videos, and literature. Its influence on the country music scene and its role in popularizing the honky-tonk culture of the 1980s remain significant.

See Also

• Urban Cowboy
• Mickey Gilley
• Honky-tonk
• Pasadena, Texas