 The ballroom of the Kursaal had hosted all manner of musical artistes following its opening in 1901.During the 1970s it made its name as Southend's preeminent rock music venue, showcasing internationally successful acts such as Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Thin Lizzy, Queen and AC/DC.A photograph of the latter performing at The Kursaal in 1977 was used on the front cover of their Let There Be Rock album.