The Hard Rock chain of themed restaurants has announced the opening of its latest hotel and casino, situated in Atlantic City, promising an eclectic line-up of live acts. The Trump Taj Mahal Casino is set to re-open on June 28 as a Hard Rock property, with 2000 rooms and 20 restaurants and bars.

Unique features will include a vast electric guitar at the entrance and a display of the world’s biggest collection of music memorabilia. Guests will enjoy the experience of having an electric guitar in their hotel room, ready to recreate their favourite rock anthem.

The hotel is committed to presenting at least 300 evenings of live music every year, with the line-up of the first 60 concerts due to be confirmed on April 20. The company’s CEO, Jim Allen, has said: “This is an entertainment facility, not just a casino.”

The first act to play, just after the day it opens, is Max Weinberg, longtime drummer for Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. Other artists expected to appear in the following months include Rascal Flatts, Stone Temple Pilots, Counting Crows, Franke Valli, Steely Dan and Kid Rock.

The memorabilia display includes outfits worn by the sadly deceased Whitney Houston and an autographed guitar from rock superstar Jon Bon Jovi.  Mariah Carey is said to be donating some of her iconic dresses to the collection.

Hard Rock is determined to make their mark in Atlantic City, spending 500 million dollars on the refurbishment alone with added costs being paid for the top class live entertainment. Key to the regeneration is the updating of the Etess Arena, an essential part of the complex. Renamed as Hard Rock Live, its capacity has been increased to an audience of 7000.