4 Things to Know About Tom Waits’ Nighthawks at the Diner

The album was recorded in just two days. Waits and his band completed the live-in-studio album over four sessions on July 30 and 31, 1975.

It was recorded at the Record Plant in Los Angeles. The sessions took place at this famous studio, known for hosting many classic recordings.

The album captures a late-night club atmosphere. Waits performed as if in a smoky jazz club, with between-song banter and audience reactions included.

The recordings were done live with a small audience. Rather than overdubbing, Waits played directly to an invited crowd, giving the album its spontaneous feel.