The Molotow is internationally acknowledged and has established a reputation[6] for showcasing new talent and hosting many well-known bands' first shows at the beginning of their careers such as The Killers,[7] The White Stripes,[8][9][10] The Black Keys[11] or Mumford & Sons[12][13] and is noted for being a stepping stone for bands before they get famous.

Others who have played gigs at Molotow early in their careers include Vampire Weekend,[14][15] Biffy Clyro,[16] Idles,[17] The Hives, LCD Soundsystem,[18] St. Vincent,[19] The National[20] and Imagine Dragons.

Hellacopters frontman Nicke Andersson said in 2005 when asked why he played at a small location like Molotow: "Rock 'n' roll is not made to be viewed with binoculars from a great distance, or on large screens".

[25] In 2013 the building where the club was located got demolished and the Molotow moved to the other end of the Reeperbahn at the intersection of Grosse Freiheit next to the Beatles-Platz.

[32][needs update] There was a solidarity demonstration, also covered by nationwide #1 evening news show Tagesschau, to support the Molotow on December 30th 2023 with several thousand people in front of the club.