American Football are formally inviting you to stay the night at 704 West High Street in Urbana, Illinois – the white, residential house made famous by the cover of their self-titled debut album. Last year, the band became co-owners of “The American Football House” along with their label Polyvinyl, photographer Atiba Jefferson, Chicago’s Open House Contemporary, and photographer and videographer Chris Strong, who designed the first American Football album cover. Now, they’re opening it up for anyone to rent on AirBnB.
“In May 2023, the property was purchased by the members of American Football, as well as Chris Strong, Polyvinyl Records, Open House Contemporary, and Atiba Jefferson to protect the house from developers and potential demolition,” the AirBnB listing reads. “By preserving the 130+ year-old house and opening it up for artists, creative retreats, events, and nightly stays, we hope this indelible space will continue to inspire others for many years to come–right here in the community that gave shape to its unique legacy.”
The band has also launched AmericanFootball.house, a comprehensive website about the building, which was constructed in 1893. In addition to hosting a detailed history of the American Football house written by Sean Neumann, it also includes a special discounted rate for bands to stay at the house, a contact form to book events there, local recommendations in Urbana, and a calendar of upcoming house shows, artist residencies, and vinyl pop-ups.
American Football isn’t the only record to spotlight the 704 West High Street house. In 2014, the band released a music video for “Never Meant” that was filmed inside the house by Chris Strong. Two years later, the house’s interior was photographed once again by Strong for the cover of American Football’s comeback album.
On October 18, American Football will release a special 25th anniversary edition of their debut album, plus American Football (Covers), which includes new takes on their songs by Ethel Cain, Manchester Orchestra, Blondshell, and others.