Name three local bands. For many, it can be impossible, but Bob and Jerry Greenberg plan to change that by bringing local, original music to the Rainbow Bar & Grill.
The brothers have spent more than 30 years bringing the largest names in rock 'n' roll to radios and audiences around the world, so it seems reasonable they now want to scout out the best and brightest in Las Vegas. As the former president of Atlantic Records, Jerry has been credited for signing and working with rock icons such as the Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin and Eric Clapton, while Bob has had his fingers in a variety of different industry jobs, and has worked with the groups Yes, Genesis and many others. In the '80s, the Greenbergs created Mirage Records, and are now partners and owners of the Rainbow.
On November 10, the brothers hosted a meeting of the National Association of Record Industry Professionals. The evening's conversation, titled "Las Vegas Meets Hollywood's Sunset Strip: An Evening with Jerry Greenberg and Bob Greenberg," was loosely mediated by NARIP President Tess Taylor and Las Vegas chapter director Pamela Logan. It covered the Greenbergs' contributions to rock, how the creative aspects of the industry have been replaced by strict corporate rules and, more to the local point, the Greenbergs' intentions to bring some life to the often-overlooked Las Vegas music scene.
"We've only been here six months, but we've been inundated with talent," Bob said. In response, next year the Rainbow will play host to a Thursday night showcase. Local bands can apply for the coveted positions by dropping off CDs at the bar. Bob and Jerry plan to eventually rent a studio where they will hold auditions.
"I want to help local bands who need to get exposure," Jerry said. "If a band is great, they might end up becoming a regular." This, along with other projects, will begin the reemergence of Mirage Records, with its base here in Las Vegas. "Both of us agree we're ready to start Mirage again," Jerry said. "We're gonna take it slow and easy."
The Greenbergs' enthusiasm quickly caught the attention of some local musicians, who have already submitted their CDs for the chance to become part of the new era in local rock.