This poster promotes the Velvet Underground’s summer residency at Max’s Kansas City in New York City from June 24th through August 23rd, 1970. Designed by Steve Nelson, the artwork captures the band’s striking presence with a monochromatic aesthetic, reminiscent of advertisements seen in NYC subway cars. Its minimalist style reflects the raw and unfiltered energy of the Velvet Underground’s music and persona.
The poster features a black-and-white photograph of the band members, highlighting their serious and introspective expressions. Positioned below the image is text that emphasizes the significance of these shows as the Velvet Underground’s “First NY Appearance in 3 Years,” marking a momentous return for the group. The performances at Max’s Kansas City were pivotal, not only for the band’s legacy but also as the venue served as a hub for New York’s art and music scenes.
This residency also marked a turning point in the Velvet Underground’s history, as Lou Reed, the band’s frontman and key creative force, left the group during this run. The stark design of the poster mirrors the sense of transition and change that the band was undergoing at the time.
Max’s Kansas City, known for its intimate setting and its role as a gathering place for artists, musicians, and creatives, provided the perfect backdrop for this significant chapter in the Velvet Underground’s career. This poster stands as a timeless artifact of the band’s enduring influence and the cultural vibrancy of New York City in the early 1970s.