Owner of The Hungry i

October 18, 2007
Enrico Banducci, owner of the world famous nightclub, The Hungry i in San Francisco, passed away on October 9th at the age of 85. Banducci was considered the architect of San Francisco's North Beach night life during the 50's and 60's. With his support, Barbra's 1963 engagement at The Hungry i helped thrust her into the national spotlight.

Barbra performed at San Francisco's The Hungry i during a four week engagement between March and April, 1963. Columbia Records used the occasion of these performances to promote her soon to be released first studio album. Barbra's run at The Hungry i was quite successful and her nightly SRO appearance helped her to become nationally known.

Similar to New York's Bon Soir, The Hungry i was a trendy basement club. It was considered an important performance venue in the early sixties, attracting such talents as Woody Allen and Bill Cosby. Barbra had to personally convince Banducci to give her the opportunity. Her efforts were well rewarded.

Enrico Banducci spoke about Barbra. Listen here on NPR radio