The Matrix

The Matrix was a nightclub in San Francisco from 1965 to 1972 and was one of the keys to what eventually became known as the "San Francisco Sound" in rock music. Located at 3138 Fillmore Street, in a 100-capacity beer-and-pizza shop, The Matrix opened 13 August 1965, showcasing Jefferson Airplane, which singer Marty Balin had put together as the club's "house band". Balin had persuaded three limited partners to put up $3,000 apiece to finance the club's opening, giving them 75 percent ownership, while he retained 25 percent for creating and managing it. Emergence of Jefferson Airplane Jefferson Airplane rose rapidly to local prominence during late 1965 and early 1966 with their performances at The Matrix, and it was there that they were first seen by noted music critic Ralph J. Gleason, who became an early champion of the group. The Matrix was a favorite haunt of gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson in the late 1960s – it was mentioned briefly in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas during a flashback scene. Thompson was a contributing editor for Rolling Stone magazine (founded in 1967 in San Francisco).