118 - Glasgow Barrowlands with Alison Irvine

118 - Glasgow Barrowlands with Alison Irvine

From Music Maps Podcast by Rock n Roll Book Club

May 31, 2026 · 45 min · Episode 118

About this episode

The episode explores the history and significance of the Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom, featuring insights from guest Alison Irvine.

Join us for a deep dive into an iconic gig venue, the legendary Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom.  The building was first opened by Maggie McIver on Christmas Eve 1934 & hosts dances for the East End of Glasgow for decades, however once the big band era passes the venue begins to decline & loses popularity following the infamous Bible John murders in the late 1960s.  After a brief period as a Roller Disco the venue is revived following Simple Minds filming their Waterfront video in 1983.  In 1985 the famous neon sign goes up on the exterior of the building & the venue is still family ran to this day.  We hear about what makes the venue so famous from its legendary acoustics, to the ceiling stars & original features & also the famous Barrowlands atmosphere.  Some of the famous performances at the Barrowlands include The Pogues debuting Fairytale of New York with Joe Strummer on guitar, Noel Gallagher finishing an Oasis gig solo after Liam Gallagher walks off stage, debuting Whatever on acoustic guitar.  Unknown local acts Lewis Capaldi & Rianne Downeyt play early gigs at the venue while Scottish band The Saw Doctors hold the record…

People in this episode

Guest: Alison Irvine

Topics covered

  • Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom
  • music history
  • iconic venues
  • live performances
  • Scottish music scene

Keywords

  • Glasgow Barrowland
  • music venue
  • live music
  • Scottish bands
  • acoustics

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Simple Minds, The Pogues, The Saw Doctors

Places: Glasgow, Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom

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