Neon Boots Dancehall and Saloon

The once thriving ballroom and concert venue known as the Esquire Ballroom is now Neon Boots Dancehall and Saloon. Built in 1955 by Raymond Proske, the Esquire Ballroom was home to many well-known acts of the 50s, 60s and 70s. Most notable is Willie Nelson, where he was offered a job by house performer Larry Butler after Nelson asked him to listen to a few songs he had wrote including one called “Crazy.” Nelson, desperate for money offered the songs for $10 each. Butler knowing that these songs were “too good” instead offered Nelson a $50 loan and job performing with his band. One night during his commute from Pasadena to The Esquire Ballroom, Nelson wrote the song “Night Life” about working at the bar.