'I booked The Killers as a favour to play in a room above a pub'


In November 2003, The Killers took to the small stage above a pub in Lincoln, a little-known band from Las Vegas. Steve Hawkins, who ran the Bivouac club, was amazed by the anthemic set he heard during soundcheck, calling the band “absolutely massive” after only three seconds. The venue, known for its black walls and sticky floors, was packed with about 200 people that night, all of whom were about to witness the beginnings of greatness.

The 30-minute set included some of The Killer’s most well-known songs, such as Somebody Told Me and Mr Brightside. Attending British band British Sea Power was struck by the group’s amazement over Lincoln’s historic landmarks and weather. Billed as a favour to the band’s agent, the gig was put together quite last minute, but within six months, The Killers released Hot Fuss, their first album, which went to number one in the UK.

Prior to Lincoln, The Killers paved their way by playing at similar small venues around the UK. Though unlikely, Martin Noble of British Sea Power stated: “We all thought, yeah, they are all right, this lot, they might go somewhere.”

Steve tried to re-book The Killers for a second performance, but was outbid by Leeds University. Regardless, the Bivouac club became known for hosting live music and new talent, welcoming artists such as The Kaiser Chiefs and Biffy Clyro. Steve remembers The Killers as being the nicest people ever to have come through Bivouac’s doors.

The Killers went on to achieve great success, headlining Glastonbury twice and touring the globe. However, the band’s humble beginnings above the Duke of Wellington pub in Lincoln will never be forgotten

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