Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Introducing Charlie’s Place: A Cultural Haven That Brought People Together Through Music
Jul 22, 2025
Discover the incredible story of Charlie Fitzgerald, who defied racial barriers in the 1940s by opening a groundbreaking nightclub where Black and white patrons danced together. This cultural haven was a vibrant hotspot for legendary musicians like Little Richard and Ray Charles. From joy to violence, the club’s legacy reflects the complexities of a community grappling with Jim Crow laws. Through music, Charlie’s Place became a unifying force, leaving an indelible mark on those who experienced its heartbeat.
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Charlie’s Club Defied Segregation
- Charlie Fitzgerald opened a club where Black and white people danced together despite Jim Crow laws.
- The club felt joyous and safe, defying segregation during the 1940s in Myrtle Beach.
Life on Carver Street
- Miss Pat, a local, shared memories of living on Carver Street, the center of Black life during segregation.
- She learned to dance and survive within strict racial boundaries in Myrtle Beach.
Whispering Pines: A Music Hub
- Charlie and Sarah Fitzgerald ran Whispering Pines, later known as Charlie's Place, attracting top Black entertainers.
- The club was known for its elegant atmosphere and powerful live music in Myrtle Beach.