“Porn Out, Hotels In.” That was the headline on a recent Businessweek story about the evolution of West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, where several big hotels are under construction or being proposed. But a decision by XBIZ to hold its annual porn convention at the Andaz hotel suggests there’s some adult life left on the Strip after all.
XBIZ is the leading source of information about the adult sex industry, covering everything from the unsuccessful battle to force porn actors in California to wear condoms to the latest products from sex toy manufacturers. It announced earlier this week that it is taking over the Andaz hotel for its annual trade show in January.
According to XBIZ a number of surrounding restaurants and clubs will be participating in the event. For example, Saddle Ranch, 8371 Sunset Blvd. near Kings Road, will host the official XBIZ 360 kickoff party.
Those hoping for a sneak peak at their favorite adult stars will have to go back to their computers. The XBIZ 360 show is closed to the public and only XBIZ attendees will be allowed to book rooms in the hotel during the Jan. 14 to 16 event.
What you’ll miss are the annual XBIZ Awards, which are slightly less racy than the AVN adult video awards ceremony staged each year in Las Vegas. Still, XBIZ award categories such as “All-Sex Release of the Year,” “All-Girl Release of the Year,” “Transexual Performer of the Year” and “Gay Performer of the Year” give you a hint at what will be going on inside the Andaz.
This year’s ceremony will be hosted by James Deen, (aka Bryan Matthew Sevilla) named “Crossover Star of the Year” by XBIZ in January, when it held its 2014 trade show at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City. Deen, 28, has a wholesome look that has led fans to liken him to Ryan Gosling.
It’s not all about sex performers. There also will be awards, according to an XBIZ press release, to “honor the most highly respected businessmen and women within the online and retail communities of the industry. “
