About LaRue (and the start of the S.F. Scene)

LaRue electrified audiences at Mabuhay Gardens, other venues in San Francisco, and at Bay Area events—and even at the Whisky in L.A. The “scene” actually began at LaRue’s own Folsom Studios (rented out to bands from The Nuns to Sammy Hagar). Back then, most clubs featured disco or canned dance music, and Winterland was reserved for major labels.

We threw free “Invitation Only” parties at Folsom Studios. It worked—after a few credential checks, the studio filled with rockers, KSAN DJs, and musicians. With a Baby Grand piano and killer sound system, rock and roll felt its oats.

When Mabuhay Gardens opened, that crew had a home turf. LaRue then played Project Artaud, Golden Gate Park, McLaren Park, the S.F. Blues Festival by City Hall, live TV (see our videos), and, of course, the Mab. We even ran ads in the Chronicle’s "Pink Section," rented limos, and set up Klieg lights out front.

Inside the Mab, Merv tended bar, Ness welcomed new fans, and Dirk Dirksen dished out insults—“Now go back to your ticky-tacky houses.” Founding members were Bob Banks (vocals), Robert Moselle (piano), and Danny Sego (rhythm guitar), joined early on by drummer John Chambers (formerly with Elvin Bishop) and blues guitarist Mike Henderson, who sometimes opened for us.

Today, LaRue lives on through archival footage, rare vinyl, CDs, and this site—preserving the energy and attitude of a true S.F. rock band that pioneered the scene.