The Palomino Story
From East Chicago to North Hollywood
The incredible journey of two brothers who created a legendary home for country music
The Thomas Brothers Story
Tommy and Bill Thomas grew up in East Chicago, Indiana. Their father, Tommy Tomac (later changed to Tommy Thomas upon arriving at Ellis Island), was an immigrant from the Croatian province of Yugoslavia. Their mother, Josephine Benco, came to America as a mail-order bride.
The elder Tom Thomas owned a bar at 502 W. 151st Street in East Chicago named the Thomas Lounge. The lounge was well known for serving signature Lake Michigan Perch. The building was a three-story structure: the first floor housed the Thomas Lounge, the second floor was a boarding house where they rented rooms, and the third floor was where the Thomas family lived.
Growing up in East Chicago would form the foundation for what would become an incredible journey of two brothers who would help shape the West Coast country music scene for decades to come.
Timeline of a Legend
On March 10, 1951, Amand Gautier reopened the venue as the Palomino, featuring dining, dancing, and Western entertainment. Co-owner Hank Penny and his energetic house band provided Western swing music every night.
Brothers Tommy and Bill Thomas purchased the Palomino and built on its reputation as one of L.A.'s best dance halls, turning it into a home away from home that nurtured fine musical talent.
The Palomino expanded into L.A.'s largest country music venue, helping popularize the 'California Sound' and becoming the most influential club on the West Coast. Legends like Hank Williams Sr., Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Willie Nelson graced its stage.
The Palomino topped the Academy of Country Music's 'Nightclub of the Year' list for an unprecedented 14 straight years, thanks to the stewardship of the Thomas brothers. Icons like Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, Bob Dylan, and Elton John performed here.
The club's authentic roadhouse feel attracted filmmakers. Clint Eastwood filmed scenes for 'Every Which Way But Loose' and 'Any Which Way You Can,' while Burt Reynolds shot 'Hooper' here. TV shows like Adam-12, CHiPs, and T.J. Hooker also used the location.
Films like 'Urban Cowboy' and 'Honeysuckle Rose' re-energized country music with up-tempo pop beats. Attendance skyrocketed as the club evolved from friendly neighborhood hangout to industry essential.
Despite adding rock and blues to the mix and hosting various events, declining sales from the growing Nashville scene and changing entertainment landscape led to the club's eventual closure after decades of legendary performances.
Notable Performers
The Palomino Club hosted an incredible roster of talent that shaped American music. From country legends to surprise appearances by rock icons, the stage saw them all.
Hank Williams Sr.
Johnny Cash
Patsy Cline
Willie Nelson
Waylon Jennings
Jerry Lee Lewis
Linda Ronstadt
Merle Haggard
Buck Owens
Glen Campbell
Tammy Wynette
George Jones
Emmylou Harris
Crystal Gayle
Gram Parsons
Bob Dylan
Elton John
Elvis Costello
Marty Robbins
Kenny Rogers
Barbara Mandrell
Asleep at the Wheel
Red Hot Chili Peppers
14 Years of Excellence
The Palomino Club topped the Academy of Country Music's "Nightclub of the Year" list for an unprecedented 14 consecutive years throughout the 1970s and 1980s, thanks to the dedicated stewardship of Tommy and Bill Thomas.
When ticket sales dropped, the shrewd siblings increased revenues by selling promotional belt buckles, cigarette lighters, and T-shirts, and offering improved food and drink options at popular prices.
Hollywood Connection
The club's authentic roadhouse atmosphere made it a favorite filming location
- • Every Which Way But Loose - Clint Eastwood
- • Any Which Way You Can - Clint Eastwood
- • Hooper - Burt Reynolds
- • That Thing You Do - Tom Hanks
- • Adam-12
- • CHiPs
- • T.J. Hooker
- • Various other productions
A Lasting Legacy
Gone now for 30 years, the Palomino lives on in spirit—a symbol of the deep roots and rural beginnings of the San Fernando Valley. Its influence on country music and the California Sound continues to resonate today.
This website is dedicated to preserving the memories, stories, and legacy of the World Famous Palomino Club and all who made it a home for music lovers.