what's it all about?...

(this section will eventually be expanded)

in 1972, a club called the gallery was opened in manhattan, new york.  as the club grew in popularity, helped by the rise of disco, the dj, nicky siano, hired two young assistants – larry levan and frankie knuckles.  the two new recruits learned fast and were soon mixing records.  

late 1973 levan and knuckles went to work for continental baths playing a mix of disco, r & b and funk.

by 1976 larry levan became the resident dj at the newly opened paradise garage.  a year later frankie knuckles went on to co-found the warehouse in chicago.  both were playing what was at the time an eclectic mix of tunes.

if you’re thinking what this history lesson has to do with house and garage; the music these two pioneers played went on to become “house music” played at the warehouse and “garage”, more soulful, that was played at the paradise garage.

the stage was set and right up to the present day, many forms of dance music has derived from what essentially started out as funk and disco.

larry levan died in 1992.  he reached legendary status, as did the paradise garage.  his eleven-year residency only ended due to the club closing in 1987.

frankie knuckles still dj’s, remixes and produces music today. 

other key figures that have made their mark with house and garage: tony humphries, francois k, todd terry, marshell jefferson, masters at work, david morales.....

last updated: 7th july 2003