Image credit: Bill Bernstein
Paradise Garage opened in 1977, inspired by David Mancuso's private DJ parties at The Loft—no liquor was served, no food or beverages were sold. The club was invitation-only with devoted patronage of primarily Black gay men. The turntable wizardry of DJ Larry Levan—pictured here—was the primary draw. The Garage was also the location of Keith Haring's inaugural "Party of Life" on May 16, 1984.