A FREMANTLE music institution is taking a walk down memory lane today (Saturday April 12) with a tribute honouring John Showell, the original founder of The Stoned Crow — the gritty 1970s venue that would eventually become Mojo’s.

“We have a special guest, John Showell, who started The Stoned Crow in 1974 and sold off in early ‘80s,” event organiser Claire Hollingsworth said.

“John is a character of all characters, and has so many wild stories from the the ‘70s era of Stoned Crow, which later became Mojo’s.”

The event will run from 4pm to 7pm and feature story sessions, live performances, photo displays and recorded messages from those who experienced the heyday of the legendary Leighton venue.

“We just thought it was important to get these stories documented while we still can,” Ms Hollingsworth said. 

“The event and Mojo’s is a wonderful example of how things have had to change but have remained true to their values.”

The community-driven event is not run by Mojo’s, but organised by locals. 

“I am actually a neighbour of John’s, and I’ve been working with other (Anica Christensen) residents from Pier Street where John lives.”

Among the tributes are messages from the Triffids and members of the Gare family of The Jam Tarts fame, while Indigenous band No Fixed Address shared their thanks from across the country. 

“When they booked their first tour, 18 venues cancelled when they found out they were Indigenous, but John was one of the few who didn’t cancel,” Ms Hollingsworth said.

“It’s just a way for the community… to thank John, validate his experience and showcase these stories that would otherwise remain unwritten.”