Denise LePage Welcomes you!
Denise and Denis LePage were the heartbeat of the iconic Italo-disco duo Lime, a vibrant musical force that defined an era of dance music. Originating from Canada, the LePages brought their unmistakable chemistry, high-energy beats, and dreamy vocals to life in 1979, introducing the world to a fresh, electrifying sound that captured the spirit of 80s club culture. Their debut track, Your Love, became an instant anthem, setting dance floors on fire and placing Lime at the forefront of the disco movement.
For nearly a decade, Denise and Denis enchanted audiences worldwide, blending Denis’s brilliant songwriting and production skills with Denise’s magnetic stage presence and crystal-clear vocals. Together, they released a series of dancefloor classics, such as Babe, We’re Gonna Love Tonight and Guilty, which became staples in clubs from Miami to Milan. Their music wasn’t just about rhythm—it was about bringing people together, spreading joy, and creating moments of pure freedom.
By the late 1980s, Lime was evolving. After a successful run, the LePages decided to step back from the spotlight, having built a legacy that was larger than life. An international vocal search was conducted to carry the Lime torch forward, leading to the selection of Joy Dorris and Rob Hubertz. This new duo, with voices carefully chosen to mimic the signature Lime sound, continued to bring the music to new audiences, ensuring that the essence of the LePages lived on.
The LePages’ story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the courage to create something uniquely their own. They didn’t just perform music—they created a movement. Their journey reminds us that no dream is too bold, no stage too big, and no obstacle too daunting when fueled by love and creativity.
As you step into 80s Clubbing in Miami, let the spirit of Denise and Denis LePage inspire you to embrace your unique rhythm, dance like nobody’s watching, and chase your dreams with unrelenting energy. Just like Lime, you, too, can light up the world.
Club80Miami.com began as a fan site on Facebook with the aim of celebrating Miami’s iconic 1980s club scene and growing its platform through social media in its early stages. What started as a series of interviews with DJs soon snowballed into conversations with artists, movers, and shakers from Miami’s vibrant ’80s nightlife. Founded by Wilson Alvarez, a 1984 graduate of South Miami Senior High, Club80Miami.com reflects his deep connection to the era, having lived its nightlife scene extensively. His goal was to document and reminisce about this unforgettable time before it fades from collective memory.
Wilson’s weekends were a well-planned journey through Miami’s hottest spots. At just 15, he was already a regular at the legendary Pete & Lenny’s on Saturday nights. His week would kick off on Wednesdays at Casanova’s, followed by Thursday nights at Fire & Ice and Stefano’s. Friday nights saw him bouncing between Infinity and Club Z (or 1235), and he rarely missed a Saturday at Backstreets. Sundays started with “Sunday in the Bay” in Key Biscayne, wrapping up the night at Casanova’s before an after-party at Mystique’s or Zigfields on 57th Avenue. La Palma became a nightly ritual for churros, hot chocolate, and Fritas, while U-Totem was the spot for the occasional Sunkist run.
Wilson wasn’t alone; a whole culture centered on Miami’s clubs drew people from all over the city, where fashion played a starring role. Fiorucci’s, Willie Wear, Giorgio Brutini’s, Capezios, Espadrilles, Girbaud Jeans, and Europa shoes were the staples, and the GQ-inspired style was always on point. Miami’s club-goers were known for their high-energy, clean (and semi-clean) fun, with unforgettable icons like “Las Chaperonas” at The Forest, an experience still remembered by many “Forestecas.”
The 1980s nightlife in Miami was truly one of a kind, and my vision is to preserve and document these moments as much as possible. Each interview with DJs and nightlife personalities confirms that Miami’s club scene in the 1980s was something extraordinary.
In the 1980s, Miami was one of the top cities worldwide for disco, Italo, and freestyle music, drawing crowds from across the globe to revel in its vibrant nightlife. Stars like Madonna, the Village People, Grace Jones, Duran Duran, A Flock of Seagulls, and the Pet Shop Boys graced Miami’s dance floors, electrifying audiences with unforgettable live performances. The city’s clubs weren’t just stages; they were cultural epicenters where icons like Prince, Debbie Harry, Donna Summer, Rick James, and even David Bowie made appearances, creating an atmosphere that was as glamorous as it was revolutionary. From the mirrored interiors of exclusive hotel clubs to pulsating beachside parties, each venue offered something unique, making Miami nightlife the stuff of legend.
Now, let’s dive into a list of these legendary clubs that made Miami’s nightlife in the ’80s unforgettable.
Alexandre and Allegros (Omni Hotel – Downtown Miami)
DJ: Before becoming a Hollywood icon, Andy Garcia ran the light show at Alexandre, lending his talent to this Omni Hotel venue. Later rebranded as Allegros, it continued the legacy, attracting A-listers with its swanky atmosphere and unforgettable light shows.
Backstreets (Ft. Lauderdale)
DJ: Bob Miro
An iconic spot in Ft. Lauderdale, Backstreets was a multi-level, Western-style saloon with a dance floor, tiki bar, pool, and jacuzzi that welcomed a mix of gay and straight partygoers. Known for its progressive atmosphere, it later became The Edge, carrying on the high-energy spirit of the original.
Banana Boat (Kendall Dr. and 107th Ave)
DJ: Avy Gonzalez
The vibrant Banana Boat in Kendall was a hit thanks to DJ Avy Gonzalez, who later became a successful producer for groups like Exposé. Banana Boat lives on as Crystal’s, a salsa club that captures a bit of the club’s original lively spirit.
Casanovas (740 E. 9th St., Hialeah)
Casanovas was Miami’s answer to Studio 54, a legendary nightclub that etched its name into the hearts of everyone who walked through its doors. Known for its electric energy, intimate atmosphere, and unforgettable music, Casanovas created memories so vivid that patrons still talk about it with fondness and nostalgia. It wasn’t just a nightclub; it was a movement, a place where people came alive on the dance floor, connected by the universal language of music.
At the heart of this iconic venue was DJ Carlos Nodal, a brilliant and beloved resident DJ who set the tone for those unforgettable nights. His mastery behind the turntables created magic, and his passion for music left an indelible mark on Casanovas. When he tragically passed away, the loss was deeply felt, not only by the Casanovas family but by the entire Miami music scene.
Fulfilling the enormous task of continuing his legacy fell to DJ Ciro Llerena, who stepped up with heart and determination. Ciro embraced the challenge, carrying forward the spirit of Casanovas with his exceptional talent and devotion to the music and people. Through his “Casanovas-Saturday Night Fever” pop-up events, DJ Ciro keeps the legend alive, creating vibrant, nostalgic experiences that transport audiences back to the golden days of Miami nightlife.
Today, Ciro’s events are more than just parties—they’re a tribute to the past and a celebration of the timeless joy of music and dance. With every beat he spins, he brings the dance floor to life, uniting generations of fans who gather to reminisce, celebrate, and create new memories. His dedication is a reminder that true legacies are never forgotten, and the power of music can transcend time.
Let the story of Casanovas inspire you to honor the past while embracing the future, to dance with passion, and to celebrate life’s moments—big and small. DJ Ciro’s journey proves that with love, resilience, and a shared spirit, legacies can live on, brighter than ever.
1235 and Club Z
1235, located at 1235 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach, became a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant nightlife in the 1980s and 1990s. It evolved from its earlier days as Club Z, a hub for alternative music lovers, into a high-energy nightclub that defined the dance music culture of Miami Beach. Renowned for its state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems and its eclectic blend of music styles, 1235 attracted clubgoers from all over the world and played host to some of the most legendary DJs of its time.
The Evolution: Club Z to 1235
Before it became 1235, the venue was home to Club Z, an edgy, forward-thinking nightclub known for catering to Miami’s alternative crowd. Club Z stood out for its bold mix of new wave, punk, and electronic music, becoming a hotspot for creatives, trendsetters, and those looking for something different. With DJs like Maurice Ferre Jr. and Carlos Menendez, Club Z built a strong reputation for pushing musical boundaries.
In the early 1980s, as Miami’s nightlife grew increasingly sophisticated, the venue transformed into 1235, reflecting the cultural shift toward high-energy dance music. The new club embraced the glitz and glamour of Miami Beach while maintaining a cutting-edge sound. Its multi-level layout, massive dance floors, and immersive visuals made it a standout among the city’s nightlife venues.
The DJs Who Defined 1235
1235’s success was built on the shoulders of its incredible DJ talent. Each DJ brought their own flair, ensuring the club remained fresh and exciting night after night:
- David Padilla: Known as one of Miami Beach’s most iconic DJs, Padilla created euphoric experiences with his seamless mixing of house, freestyle, and electronic tracks. His residency at 1235 elevated him to legend status and helped cement the club’s reputation as a dance music mecca.
- Pete Dennis: A master of high-energy sets, Dennis captivated the crowds with his technical prowess and ability to keep the dance floor alive.
- Felix Sama: A freestyle pioneer, Sama’s sets connected deeply with Miami’s Latin and freestyle scenes, adding a unique layer to 1235’s musical offerings.
- DJ Quinn (formerly Quintana): Known for his eclectic style and electric energy, DJ Quinn became a crowd favorite. His ability to blend genres and read the room made him a standout talent. Today, DJ Quinn continues to keep the spirit of 1235 alive with pop-up events in the Miami area, offering nostalgic yet contemporary dance experiences.
- Junior Vasquez (guest DJ): A New York legend, Vasquez brought his signature style to 1235 during special appearances, further enhancing the club’s prestige.
1235’s Heyday
1235 quickly became a destination for anyone who wanted to experience the best of Miami Beach nightlife. With its multi-level design, immersive sound and light shows, and diverse music programming, it attracted celebrities, tourists, and locals alike. The club became a place where unforgettable nights unfolded, blending luxury with an undeniable underground energy.
The Closing and Legacy
1235 eventually closed its doors as Miami Beach nightlife evolved in the 1990s. The venue became Paragon and later Club Mansion, both iconic in their own rights, but the legacy of 1235 lives on. It remains a symbol of Miami Beach’s golden era of nightclubbing—a time when music, culture, and creativity collided in a way that felt both glamorous and rebellious.
Today, DJ Quinn’s 1235 pop-up events continue to honor the club’s legacy, bringing together old fans and new generations to relive the magic. These events are a testament to 1235’s lasting impact, proving that while the physical club may be gone, its spirit is alive and well in Miami’s dance culture.
For anyone who danced at 1235, it wasn’t just a nightclub—it was an era, a community, and a home for music lovers, all tied together by the extraordinary DJs who made it unforgettable.
Cheekers (Dania, FL)
While details about Cheekers are sparse, it was beloved for its relaxed, beach-adjacent vibe, making it a go-to destination for an authentic Floridian night out.
Faces In The Grove (Mayfair, Coconut Grove)
Faces in the Grove, nestled within the upscale Mayfair complex in Coconut Grove, was a beacon of sophistication and glamour in Miami’s 1980s nightlife scene. Known for its formal dress code and exclusive atmosphere, Faces catered to Miami’s elite, blending elegance with a high-energy dance environment. At the heart of this iconic venue was DJ Scott Blackwell, a pioneer whose exceptional talent made him one of the most revered DJs of the era.
Scott Blackwell: The Master Behind the Decks
Scott Blackwell was more than just a DJ—he was a visionary. Known for his impeccable skill on the turntables, his seamless mixing, and his ability to read and energize a crowd, Blackwell elevated the art of DJing to new heights. At Faces, he delivered an unforgettable experience night after night, combining genres like disco, early house, and freestyle to create a musical journey that left patrons mesmerized.
Blackwell’s sets at Faces became legendary, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers, trendsetters, and celebrities. He was also a trailblazer in incorporating cutting-edge technology into his performances, experimenting with sound in ways that were ahead of his time. His ability to fuse technical precision with artistic flair solidified his reputation as one of the greatest DJs of the 1980s.
Faces: Miami’s Elite Playground
Faces wasn’t just a nightclub—it was a cultural phenomenon. With its formal dress code and sophisticated ambiance, the club stood apart from the more casual venues in Coconut Grove and Miami Beach. The Mayfair complex, known for its architectural beauty and luxurious design, provided the perfect backdrop for Faces’ elegant vibe.
The club’s clientele included high-profile Miamians, business leaders, and occasional celebrity guests, all drawn to the exclusivity and style of Faces. The dance floor, brought to life by Blackwell’s mastery, became the epicenter of this glamorous world. The music wasn’t just heard; it was felt, as the beats resonated through the luxurious venue, creating an atmosphere that was both electric and refined.
Legacy of Scott Blackwell and Faces
Scott Blackwell’s influence extended far beyond Faces in the Grove. He went on to have a profound impact on the music industry, particularly in the Christian dance music genre, where he became a pioneer and innovator. Despite his evolution into different musical spaces, his time at Faces remains a high point in Miami’s clubbing history.
Faces itself left an indelible mark on Coconut Grove and Miami’s nightlife. It set a standard for upscale clubbing, proving that sophistication and high-energy dance could coexist in perfect harmony. For those who experienced it, Faces wasn’t just a place to party—it was a lifestyle, a moment in time where elegance met rhythm, and Scott Blackwell was the maestro who made it all happen.
To this day, Scott Blackwell is celebrated as one of Miami’s greatest DJs, a true legend whose talent and passion continue to inspire the art of DJing.
Firehouse Four (1000 S. Miami Ave)
DJ: Roli
Firehouse Four was known for legendary happy hours where partygoers danced out onto the sidewalk. DJ Roli’s mixes were the heart of the club, adding to its reputation as a staple of Miami nightlife.
Forest (hialeah)
“The Forest” in Hialeah during the early 1980s was a legendary nightclub with a reputation for its high-energy music and captivating atmosphere. The resident DJ at “The Forest” during that era was Jimmy “Jam” Reyes. Known for his ability to read the crowd and keep the dance floor alive, Jimmy Jam Reyes became a central figure in Miami’s thriving club scene.
He helped define the sound of the time, blending disco, freestyle, and early electronic music that resonated with the diverse and vibrant Miami crowd. His legacy continues to be celebrated by those who fondly remember the unforgettable nights at “The Forest.”
Gambits (LeJeune Rd., Marriott)
DJ George Rivero was a defining figure at Gambits, a beloved nightclub that operated out of a Marriott hotel near Miami International Airport. Known for its cozy yet energetic vibe, Gambits offered a perfect mix of sophistication and nightlife excitement, attracting a blend of locals and travelers looking for a great time.
George Rivero’s mastery as a DJ was a cornerstone of Gambits’ success. His sets were a seamless blend of disco, freestyle, and early electronic beats, tailored to the eclectic crowd that frequented the club. Rivero had an innate ability to read the room, ensuring that the dance floor was always buzzing with life. Whether it was a mid-week gathering or a weekend extravaganza, his music created an ambiance that turned every night at Gambits into a memorable experience.
The club became a hotspot not just for its music but also for its unique location—offering an exciting nightlife experience close to Miami International Airport. This made it a favorite for travelers looking to unwind and locals seeking an escape from the routine. George Rivero’s dedication to creating unforgettable moments helped Gambits carve its name into Miami’s vibrant clubbing history.
His legacy as a DJ and his time at Gambits are fondly remembered by those who experienced the magic he brought to the turntables, making him an integral part of Miami’s nightlife story.
Honey For The Bears (Miami)
Honey For The Bears was a luxurious gem in Miami’s vibrant 1980s nightlife scene, renowned for its exclusivity and elegance. With its strict dress code and 21-and-up policy, the club attracted Miami’s elite, creating an atmosphere where glamour and sophistication reigned supreme. Stepping into Honey For The Bears felt like entering a world of style, energy, and unforgettable music.
At the heart of this iconic venue were the exceptional DJs, Carlos Nodal and Jimmy Yu, whose dynamic talent set the tone for the club’s legendary status. Carlos Nodal, known for his seamless transitions and passion for dance music, brought a contagious energy that electrified the room. Paired with Jimmy Yu’s innovative mixes and impeccable taste, the duo created a musical experience that kept the dance floor alive with Miami’s most fashionable crowd.
The club became more than just a venue; it was a symbol of Miami’s golden era of nightlife. Guests danced under shimmering lights, their evenings soundtracked by the irresistible beats crafted by Nodal and Yu. Whether it was a sultry disco groove or an emerging electronic hit, their music transported patrons to a world where the night never had to end.
Honey For The Bears wasn’t just about nightlife; it was about creating memories of sophistication, community, and joy. The legacy of Carlos Nodal and Jimmy Yu’s contributions lives on, reminding us of a time when music and style came together to define the heartbeat of Miami.
Limelight (Hallandale, FL)
Limelight in Hallandale was a revolutionary force in Miami’s nightlife scene, built on the former site of the beloved Rumbottoms. The club’s sleek design and state-of-the-art, million-dollar sound and light setup made it a game-changer, setting a new standard for what a nightclub could be. Limelight wasn’t just a place to dance; it was an immersive experience where cutting-edge technology and unforgettable music came together to create a vibrant atmosphere.
The sound of DJ Bobby Lombardi helped shape Limelight’s early success. Known for his innovative style, Bobby introduced beats-per-minute (BPM) mixing to the Miami club scene, a technique that transformed the way people danced. His smooth transitions between tracks and mastery of tempo kept the crowd in a constant state of excitement, making the dance floor pulse with energy all night long.
When Lewis Martinee, famed for his work with the group Exposé, took over the DJ booth, Limelight reached new heights. Martinee brought a unique flair, blending pop, freestyle, and dance music into a sound that resonated with the crowd and kept them coming back for more. His talent, combined with the club’s unforgettable sound system, made Limelight one of the hottest spots in the region, drawing in both locals and international visitors who wanted to experience the magic of Miami nightlife.
Sadly, Limelight’s run came to an abrupt end when a fire forced its closure, but its impact on Miami’s club scene remains undeniable. The legacy of DJs Bobby Lombardi and Lewis Martinee lives on, reminding us of a time when Limelight was the epicenter of dance, innovation, and pure nightlife joy.
Manhattans (6620 Red Road, South Miami)
Manhattans, located at 6620 Red Road in South Miami, was a beloved nightclub that captured the essence of the 1970s and 80s dance craze. Situated just next to the University of Miami, it became a hotspot for students and locals alike, offering a fun, lively environment that was always buzzing with energy. Inspired by the classic Saturday Night Fever, the dance floor at Manhattans was a reflection of the era’s disco influence, with its colorful lights and pulsating beats creating the perfect setting for a night of dancing and excitement.
At the heart of Manhattans’ success was DJ Billy Swan, whose exceptional skills behind the turntables kept the crowd moving all night long. Known for his ability to blend disco, funk, and early electronic beats, Billy had an innate sense of timing and a keen understanding of what would get people onto the dance floor. His sets were filled with high-energy tracks that had the crowd grooving, singing, and losing themselves in the music.
Manhattans wasn’t just a club—it was a celebration of music, movement, and youthful energy. DJ Billy Swan’s mixes brought the club to life, making it a cherished destination for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in South Miami. Whether you were a college student unwinding after exams or a local resident seeking the best of Miami’s nightlife, Manhattans offered an unforgettable experience that had people dancing until the early hours of the morning.
Mix 2 Club (North Bay Village)
Manhattans, located at 6620 Red Road in South Miami, was a beloved nightclub that captured the essence of the 1970s and 80s dance craze. Situated just next to the University of Miami, it became a hotspot for students and locals alike, offering a fun, lively environment that was always buzzing with energy. Inspired by the classic Saturday Night Fever, the dance floor at Manhattans was a reflection of the era’s disco influence, with its colorful lights and pulsating beats creating the perfect setting for a night of dancing and excitement.
At the heart of Manhattans’ success was DJ Billy Swan, whose exceptional skills behind the turntables kept the crowd moving all night long. Known for his ability to blend disco, funk, and early electronic beats, Billy had an innate sense of timing and a keen understanding of what would get people onto the dance floor. His sets were filled with high-energy tracks that had the crowd grooving, singing, and losing themselves in the music.
Manhattans wasn’t just a club—it was a celebration of music, movement, and youthful energy. DJ Billy Swan’s mixes brought the club to life, making it a cherished destination for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in South Miami. Whether you were a college student unwinding after exams or a local resident seeking the best of Miami’s nightlife, Manhattans offered an unforgettable experience that had people dancing until the early hours of the morning.
The Mutiny (Mutiny Hotel, Coconut Grove)
The Mutiny, located in the iconic Mutiny Hotel in Coconut Grove, was a legendary hotspot that defined Miami’s nightlife in the 1980s. Known for attracting the city’s elite, celebrities, and notorious personalities, The Mutiny was the place to see and be seen. With penthouse-level views and multiple dance floors, it offered an upscale, exclusive experience that drew a glamorous crowd. The club was a perfect blend of luxury, music, and an electric atmosphere, becoming an unforgettable part of Miami’s party scene.
DJs Jimmy Yu and Humberto Fleites were integral to The Mutiny’s success, bringing their expertise and unique styles to the decks, setting the tone for the club’s high-energy nights. Their mixes were always on point, catering to the sophisticated tastes of The Mutiny’s clientele, while keeping the vibe upscale and unforgettable. The club quickly became the epicenter of Miami’s nightlife, where the music, people, and opulence fused into an extraordinary experience.
The Mutiny wasn’t just a nightclub—it was also known for its role in Miami’s 1980s “cocaine culture.” Its reputation as a place where money, power, and indulgence ran rampant helped fuel its mystique and notoriety. The club’s allure was immortalized in the 1983 film Scarface, which showcased the decadence and excesses associated with Miami’s nightlife during that era, and The Mutiny’s role in the city’s party scene became a symbol of that hedonistic time.
While The Mutiny’s days as a nightclub came to a close, its legacy has remained. The Mutiny Hotel itself is still a landmark in Coconut Grove, with its iconic logo and reputation intact. Today, the building continues to stand as a testament to the glamour and high-energy nights that defined an era. As rumors of a reopening circulate, the attributes that made The Mutiny legendary—the penthouse views, the vibrant energy, and the upscale vibe—are still very much a part of its identity.
The Mutiny’s impact on Miami’s nightlife continues to resonate, with many people still recalling the magic of those nights. Whether it’s the stars who were spotted there, the moments shared between famous personalities, or the unforgettable beats of Jimmy Yu and Humberto Fleites, The Mutiny remains a significant chapter in the city’s party history. Its story serves as a reminder of how Miami was once at the center of global nightlife and continues to be a place where dreams, luxury, and music intersect.
Parallel Bar (Bakery Center, South Miami)
DJ: Raymond Hernandez
Operating by day as a fitness center, Parallel Bar transformed at night into a two-story dance club led by DJ Raymond Hernandez. Though the Bakery Center is gone, Sunset Place now fills the space.
Penrod’s Beach Club (1st and Ocean Drive, Miami Beach)
DJ: N/A
Penrod’s was a massive complex with tiki bars, pools, and an outdoor fitness gym. Its sandy beach area hosted concerts like Bon Jovi, and today, Nikki Beach continues this legacy with its open-air concept.
Pete & Lenny’s (Commercial Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale)
Pete & Lenny’s, located on Commercial Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale, was a true cornerstone of the South Florida nightlife scene during the late 70s and early 80s. Known as “America’s #1 Disco,” the club was a lively and eclectic venue, featuring not only weekly live bands like Ecstasy but also top recording artists that kept the energy high and the crowd dancing. DJs Rick Alonso and Jay Gelfand played an essential role in the club’s success, creating unforgettable nights with their expert mixes that kept the music flowing and the crowd on their feet.
One of the most unique and cherished aspects of Pete & Lenny’s was the Banana Boat, a smaller, more intimate space located downstairs from the main club. While the main venue and its second-floor dance areas were sizable, it was the Banana Boat that held a special place in the hearts of regulars. The dance floor there took up about 75% of the room, giving it a packed, high-energy vibe where the crowd was right up close to the music and the DJ. It was in this cozy, vibrant setting that DJ Rick Alonso truly shined.
Alonso’s DJ skills in the Banana Boat were exceptional, earning him a reputation for his mastery behind the turntables. The club was equipped with a Bozak mixer and three turntables, allowing Rick to create seamless transitions, layering different tracks and effects to maintain the energy throughout the night. His knowledge of the crowd and impeccable timing made him a favorite, while his technical ability with the equipment ensured that every night was a sonic experience. The sound system in the Banana Boat was tuned to perfection, and with Rick’s precision on the decks, it made the space a truly magical environment for dancers.
While the main Pete & Lenny’s club was a popular destination for those seeking a bigger, more social atmosphere, the Banana Boat provided a more intimate, immersive vibe where the connection between the DJ and the crowd felt electric. It was a perfect example of how a small, humble space could produce extraordinary energy, and Rick Alonso’s talent behind the turntables was key to its success.
Pete & Lenny’s was also home to the “Disco 77” TV show, an extension of the club’s influence on both the local and national scene, further solidifying its status as a hub for disco culture. The club’s legacy continues to be remembered as a high point in Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife history, where unforgettable music and moments were made night after night.
SALVATIONS (Downtown Miami)
The DJ at Salvations in downtown Miami during the 1980s was DJ Wayne Davis.
Salvations was a legendary club known for its eclectic vibe, attracting a diverse crowd who came to experience its mix of dance music, including disco, freestyle, and early electronic music. DJ Wayne Davis was known for his skills in creating seamless mixes, and he helped set the tone for an unforgettable nightlife experience. He was instrumental in creating the club’s high-energy, vibrant atmosphere, making it a staple in Miami’s nightlife scene during its heyday.
Scaramouche (Omni Hotel, Downtown Miami)
DJ: Joe Lenders
Located in the Omni Hotel, Scaramouche was an upscale club with mirrored walls and white couches. Known for its dress code and luxury, DJ Joe Lenders kept the glamour going with South Florida’s first-ever laser light shows.
Studio 51 (Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale)
Studio 51 in Fort Lauderdale was more than just a nightclub—it was an immersive, electrifying experience that defined the vibrant nightlife of the 1980s in South Florida. Located on Oakland Park Blvd., it quickly became a symbol of the city’s party scene, drawing in crowds with its unforgettable vibe and cutting-edge design. The club’s Egyptian-themed decor, with its towering statues, golden accents, and mysterious ambiance, set the stage for what would become one of the most iconic nightclubs in the area.
The club’s centerpiece was its black plexiglass dance floor, which became a legend in its own right. Beneath the translucent surface, a spinning logo created a mesmerizing effect, reflecting the club’s energy and adding a futuristic, otherworldly element to every step taken on the dance floor. The atmosphere was electric, with neon lights illuminating the room, casting a glow that matched the pulsating beats of the music.
At the heart of Studio 51 was its talented DJ, Felix Chinea. Known for his impeccable mixes and deep understanding of the crowd, Felix was a master of keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed. His ability to blend genres—from disco to early electronic dance music—created a seamless experience that kept everyone moving. His technical prowess on the turntables was complemented by his innate connection to the audience, knowing exactly when to shift the mood and elevate the night. Felix didn’t just play music—he crafted an experience that resonated with every person in the club, making every beat feel like a shared moment.
For those who walked into Studio 51, it wasn’t just a night out—it was an escape into a world where the music, lights, and atmosphere combined to create something magical. The energy in the club was palpable, and it wasn’t long before it became a staple of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife. People came from near and far to experience the unique environment that Felix and the venue created. The Egyptian theme, paired with Felix’s seamless transitions between dance hits, made Studio 51 an unforgettable destination.
Sadly, all good things eventually come to an end, and Studio 51’s time in the spotlight was no different. However, the legacy of its influence on Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife scene remains. The iconic black plexiglass dance floor, the mesmerizing spinning logo, and Felix Chinea’s unforgettable mixes are etched in the memories of everyone who had the privilege of stepping into that world. Studio 51 may have closed its doors, but it will always be remembered as one of the defining nightclubs of its era—where music, light, and art came together to create an experience unlike any other.
The Top Draw (79th Street Causeway, North Bay Village)
The Top Draw, located on the 79th Street Causeway in North Bay Village, was a shining example of Miami’s ability to blend sophistication with nightlife energy. This exclusive club was a destination for those seeking a more upscale, refined experience while still enjoying the electric pulse of a nightclub. The Top Draw offered a seamless combination of fine dining, a piano bar, and a disco, making it a multifaceted venue that catered to a variety of tastes and moods, all while keeping the party alive well into the early hours of the morning.
One of the defining elements of The Top Draw was its ability to attract high-profile patrons, including some of Miami’s most famous and wealthy residents, like legendary entertainer Frank Sinatra. The club’s exclusive reputation made it the go-to spot for a sophisticated crowd, and its intimate yet energetic atmosphere created the perfect backdrop for memorable nights of music and revelry. Whether guests were dining at the elegant restaurant, enjoying cocktails by the piano bar, or letting loose on the dance floor, The Top Draw offered something for everyone.
The driving force behind the dance floor energy at The Top Draw was DJ Jimmy Martinez, whose musical talent and impeccable selection kept the crowd moving all night long. Known for his ability to read the room and cater to the tastes of the upscale clientele, Martinez’s mixes were a perfect blend of classic hits, disco, and dance tracks that fit seamlessly into the club’s sophisticated yet lively atmosphere. His deep knowledge of music and his smooth transitions on the decks made him a favorite, and he knew exactly how to keep the energy flowing.
As the night progressed, the club’s dual nature came into play. Patrons could enjoy a quieter, more refined experience in the piano bar or dining area before heading to the disco, where Jimmy Martinez’s expertly curated playlists filled the room with infectious energy. The party at The Top Draw never had to stop, and the atmosphere always struck the perfect balance between elegance and fun.
The Top Draw was more than just a nightclub—it was a destination, a place where the city’s elite could gather, relax, and dance the night away in style. With its fusion of fine dining, live entertainment, and a dynamic disco scene, The Top Draw was a cornerstone of Miami’s nightlife in its heyday. Though the club eventually closed its doors, its legacy lives on as a symbol of an era when Miami nightlife was at its most glamorous, and DJ Jimmy Martinez played a key role in shaping that unforgettable experience.
These legendary venues and their DJs created an era that transformed Miami and Ft. Lauderdale into nightlife meccas, where fashion, music, and celebrity came together under the neon lights. Though the clubs may be gone, their influence on Miami’s nightlife endures.
