This Saturday, from 2pm to 2am, storied Sunset Strip venue (and long-time Motörhead hangout) the Rainbow Room will host a memorial service for Lemmy Kilmister. The Motörhead frontman and heavy metal icon passed away on December 28 (just four days after his 70th birthday) at his Los Angeles home, which he chose due to its proximity to his favorite watering hole—it's just two blocks from the Rainbow. During Lem's final days, when he could no longer make it down to the Strip, bar owner Mikael Maglieri moved Lem's favorite video poker machine to his home so he could continue playing. The machine is now back at the bar by Lem's regular seat, which has been permanently reserved for him. It's a perfect place to toast, recite some lyrics and pour one out for the deceased (we'd suggest asking before actually doing any pouring, though we have a feeling spills will be the last thing on the Rainbow staff's mind this weekend). One thing's for sure, the entire Strip will be playing it loud this Saturday. RIP, Lemmy.
Note: The Rainbow Room itself will be closed from 5pm to 9pm for a private service, but fans wanting to pay their respects during those hours are welcome to cruise the entire Strip—the Roxy and Whisky A Go-Go in particular will be open to mourners/revelers paying tribute to Lem.
Photograph: ElBurrow/Imgur