Charlie’s Place: A Revolutionary Venue in American Music History

A new podcast series titled Charlie’s Place brings to light the remarkable story of a legendary music venue situated in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This five-episode documentary-style podcast, co-produced by Atlas Obscura and Rococo Punch, with the support of Pushkin Industries, is set to debut on July 21, 2025. Hosted by filmmaker Rhym Guissé, the podcast explores how this iconic establishment defied segregation and fostered a culture of unity through music during the oppressive era of the 1940s and 1950s.

The Era and Significance of Charlie's Place

During a time when racial segregation was rigorously enforced across the southern United States, Charlie’s Place stood as a beacon of hope and inclusion. Here, Black and White patrons danced side by side, captivated by the electrifying performances of musical legends such as Little Richard, Count Basie, Ray Charles, and Ella Fitzgerald. The club was not merely a venue for entertainment; it was a revolutionary space that challenged the social norms of its time.

Founded by Charlie Fitzgerald, a Black entrepreneur with a mysterious background, Charlie’s Place transformed into a symbol of resilience and strength for the community. Fitzgerald's ambition to create an integrated nightclub inspired many but posed a significant threat to the segregationist status quo, leading to intense opposition from local white supremacist groups, including the Ku Klux Klan.

The Podcast Journey

In the podcast, Guissé delves deep into the history of Charlie's Place, chronicling the extraordinary events surrounding its establishment and operations. With firsthand accounts from locals, historians, and cultural experts, each episode reveals the vibrant community that thrived in the venue, providing an intimate look at a pivotal chapter in American history.

Listeners are guided through the tumultuous challenges that Charlie's Place faced. Intense backlash from segregationists culminated in a raid by Klan members, which, paradoxically, highlighted the resolve of the venue's patrons and reinforced the need for unity over division. This podcast not only recounts the trials and triumphs of a community united by music but also serves as a poignant reminder of the power of courage in the face of adversity.

Preserving the Legacy

According to Stuart Butler, President of Visit Myrtle Beach, “Charlie's Place is a meaningful part of Myrtle Beach’s history that reminds us of the power of community.” He emphasizes that preserving its legacy transcends mere remembrance; it’s about honoring those who paved the way for unity in a divided age. Guissé also reflects on the profound responsibility of storytelling, highlighting the importance of preserving Black history with care and respect.

As the podcast prepares to launch, listeners can expect a rich exploration of how Charlie's Place was much more than a nightclub; it was a movement, a legacy of joy, resilience, and community that continues to resonate today. With episodes released weekly, the series invites audiences to reflect on the impact of music in uniting disparate communities and challenging societal norms.

How to Listen

The first episode of Charlie’s Place will be available on Monday, July 21, 2025, across all major podcast platforms. Pushkin+ subscribers will also have the chance to access the full five-episode series ad-free upon its release. Additionally, listeners can find more insights about this important cultural heritage on the podcast’s official website, charliesplaceshow.com.

As you prepare to embark on this journey through America’s musical history, Charlie’s Place stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when people come together, making strides towards a better future through the universal language of music.