By Michael Perlman
One could sing “The Heat Is On” or any Rock N’ Roll tune that comes to mind. Afterall, it was a hot crowning moment for Queens when the Queens Historical Society’s “Queensmark” accolade was installed on May 17 at 7 PM in front of Sanger Hall at 48-20 Skillman Avenue. The façade’s mural, “Coventry: A Sunnyside Staple In Rock N’ Roll History,” now has an addition of the prestigious bronze plaque. This event featured a ceremony with the Sanger Hall staff, the legendary Sub family, and a live performance by Charlie Sub & Sound Dogs, the Coventry founder’s son’s band.
Photo by Vita Phoenix
Residents across Queens and even other boroughs are grateful that Sanger Hall, a modern-day classic bar, lounge, and restaurant that hosts musical events, is preserving the memory and spirit of the historic Coventry, the birthplace of shock rock and glam rock, which existed at 47-03 Queens Boulevard. The Coventry musical venue originated in 1972, and was originally known as the Popcorn Pub, but the building was later demolished. Within those walls, Forest Hills’-own Ramones, KISS, Blondie, New York Dolls, and Dictators, among other legendary rock musicians made history and their careers were launched. Based on tradition, the Queensmark’s installation was planned for the façade of the high-rise replacement at the Queens Boulevard site, but did not materialize after an extended period. Sanger Hall warmly agreed to be the host.
Photo by Vita Phoenix
“I admire how remarks were delivered on behalf of Sanger Hall, congratulating the Sub family and speaking how their ethos for Rock N’ Roll, originality, and local neighborhood pride aligns with that of Coventry’s,” said Ally Redmond of ATeam Partnerships, in affiliation with ATeam Communications, a public relations firm.
Recently released is a podcast series titled “Echoes of Coventry” by host Jef Canter, where a “Sizzle” reel overview can be retrieved at https://drive.google.com/file/d/16rpgB9n-w3Rjw-url8LdT5wkhY6DKGLg/view. On Spotify, four episodes have been uploaded to date: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jhoGxANd5QlkikF54SJr4. They are titled “Popcorn, Punk, and Paul Sub: The Origins of Coventry,” “Glitter, Grit, and KISS: The Scene That Sparked A Movement,” “Teenage Lust: Rocking The Coventry with Billy Joe White,” and “Perspiration, Plaques, and the Power of Place: Budd Mishkin & the Queens Historical Society on Why Venues Like Coventry Still Matter.”
It was history-in-the-making at the inaugural event at Sanger Hall on October 30, 2024, which this columnist helped coordinate with ATeam Communications and Queens Historical Society. Patrons were greeted by the unveiling of a unique pop art and rock-inspired mural, produced by well-known street artists Dylon Thomas Burns and Dylan Bauver. It features mixed media, consisting of vintage music ads, signage including Sunnyside’s Bliss Street, and legendary musicians whose careers were launched and cultivated at Coventry. Above the mural, a projector transposed historic facts and vintage images onto the façade, educating attendees and passersby. Residents and visitors can scan a QR code, opening the door to a more elaborate history lesson.
The Popcorn Pub accommodated 700 patrons and was a pivotal platform for artists to express original voices and a style at a time when New York City was undergoing significant cultural shifts. The Coventry became a sanctuary for neighborhood youths, who found solace through music. KISS notably debuted their now-iconic Kabuki makeup on site. As KISS is celebrating their 50th anniversary with a farewell tour, it is crucial to recognize where their storied career began. The two ceremonial events coupled with the mural and the newly installed Queensmark, serves as an anchor to educate generations about the transformative power of music and resilience.
Popcorn Pub circa 1972
Rehashing last October’s milestone event, pizza, hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar was available for guests, setting the mood for a memorable lineup. Jef Canter, an actor, singer, and musician at large was the evening’s host, who energized the crowd in Coventry meets Sanger Hall spirit. He asked the audience to take a look at the mural, if they have not already. He said, “It is an amazing piece of art. Some of it is paper that has been lacquered onto the wall, and some of that is paint. This beautiful collage is meant to represent the way that bands would put up their posts and bills in the old days.”
Canter referenced the transition of the Popcorn Pub to the Coventry, and pinpointed its musicians who “cut their teeth” in the business. He also explained why he is standing on stage. “I became part of the Coventry family, since there was a musical about it titled ‘Bliss Street.’ I had the marvelous opportunity of playing Paul Sub.” He introduced “the real Paul Sub” as a legend and the Coventry’s brainchild, and then continued, “I am hosting a sixth episode video podcast about the history of the Coventry titled ‘Echoes of Coventry.’” Attendees learned that it was being directed by Tal Kissos, who was among the audience members.
Canter continued, “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Michael Perlman, who is a coordinator for this historic project, and he put a lot of energy into preparing for the event and was instrumental in planning the guest speakers, the mural, and this amazing venue.”
Photo by Vita Phoenix
Nick Gulotta, Chief of Staff for Councilwoman Julie Won for Sunnyside, Long Island City, Woodside, and Astoria, spoke on her behalf. He pinpointed and extended gratitude to many attendees, including members of Sunnyside Shines, the local BID. He said, “We are extremely happy to have this mural in the district. What a gift to Queens and Sunnyside! I am one of those people who rock n’ roll saved my life as a kid. I grew up around concert venues, and I’m sure many of you can relate. The idea that future generations in Sunnyside can remember exactly what happened here, just warms my heart. So many of my neighbors, artists, and folks that will see this and think about the history every single day, will be inspired and know their own potential.”
Next to take the stage was performing arts musician Phil Ballman, who embarked upon worldwide tours and serves as Queens’ Director of Cultural Affairs and Tourism on behalf of Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. Ballman is well-known for his drum set work with Grammy-nominated band Antibalas, and according to Canter, he embodies the spirit of cultural vibrancy, being honored at the event. “I’m a child of the seventies and a huge KISS and Ramones fan. It is a thrill to be here, and to be with Mr. Paul Sub whose vision created the incredible club and the legacy. Donovan Richards is a true music fan who invested over $30 million in our Queens cultural institutions.” He later extended congratulations to everyone who played a role in “a piece of Queens and NYC music history.”
Another distinguished guest speaker was Jacqueline Crossan, who serves as Communications Director for State Senator Michael Gianaris. “It’s an honor to recognize a cornerstone of Queens history. On behalf of the senator, I would like to commend everyone involved,” she said. “It really is important that we celebrate such venues, and real institutions in our community that bring us all together.”
Among the most dramatic moments unfolded when the Queens Historical Society unveiled its bronze historic Queensmark program plaque in honor of the Coventry. This distinctive accolade was presented by seven-time Queens history book author, historian, and Queens Historical Society Executive Director Jason Antos in conjunction with Rob MacKay, an author who serves as the society’s board president and Deputy Director, Community for the Queens Economic Development Corporation and is the face behind the Queens Tourism Council. Antos and MacKay also played a significant role in the event’s planning.
At first, they spoke independently. “We will present our coveted Queensmark plaque. When this originated in 1996, it was only given to buildings of great architectural merit, but recently we wanted to branch out by giving it to historic businesses, since Queens is a community of businesses,” said Antos, the son of a mom and pop business owner. “We understand how hard it is to have a dream and build a place where the community will make its routine and love for many years.” Most recent Queensmark recipients were Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven and Friend’s Tavern in Jackson Heights. As for the Coventry, he explained, “We are proud to present it and will let everyone know about its amazing music history.”
MacKay was invited on stage and added, “We don’t give out these awards very much. A site really has to be worth something. All of the other people on our board felt that it was worthy of our Queensmark. Let’s make that mural Instagrammable!”
Austrian immigrant Paul Sub, at 94, is a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to America and later founded the Coventry and fulfilled the American dream. He came on stage with his son, Charlie Sub. Paul said, “It’s a lot of fun. Thank you for all the work that you do. Hopefully it will continue in different ways, with young people playing music and enjoying the shows.” The father and son duo held up the Queensmark in pride, after Antos turned it around and read its inscription honoring “47-03 Queens Boulevard” as the Coventry site.
Coventry Founder Paul Sub
In an interview, Charlie Sub said, “The American dream was really just a better life for our family, full of opportunities, and my dad achieved that.” He is committed toward keeping Coventry and rock n’ roll history, and his family’s legacy alive through interactive events, art, and his indie band “Charlie Sub & Sound Dogs,” which blends classic and new rock influences. “Our goal is to continue sharing the music and stories that shaped us,” he continued. He also composed the score for the “Bliss Street” musical.
Photo by Vita Phoenix
Sanger Hall was proud of the turnout and positive energy that the event brought to their venue. “It was heartwarming to see such a diverse group of people come together to celebrate Coventry’s legacy. It’s a testament to the venue’s impact across generations and cultures,” said Charlie Sub. The evening’s set included “Big Boss Man,” “Bronx is Burning,” and “Another Place.” “Each song resonates with the gritty and vibrant spirit of the Coventry era,” he explained.
Photo by Vita Phoenix
Sub felt honored by the Queensmark plaque and the mural, and is hopeful for current and future generations. “It’s moving to see our story immortalized in such a creative and permanent way. I hope the mural and plaque inspire curiosity and respect for the roots of rock music in Queens. I want younger generations to feel connected to the legacy of creativity and bold expression that defined that era.” He remembers Coventry’s electric ambiance that captured the rebellious spirit of the times. “It was outfitted with multiple stages, which allowed for a dynamic variety of performances.”
Photo by Vita Phoenix
