@djmusic_70: Held down by resident DJs Michael Ezebukwu and Michael Fields, Club LaRay opened its doors in Chicago in 1986, at a time when the city played a pivotal role in shaping house music history. Named for owner and manager Ray Hill, Club LaRay was a sanctuary for the queer and Black community. Dance, drag, comedy shows, and even performances from the likes of gracejonesofficial took place in the early evening before the party took over until close. The 30 foot ceilings, triangle bar, and stairway to heaven made it a space unlike anything else in the city. As Ezebukwu himself recalled: “A lot of folks that used to go to the Music Box with Ron Hardy on Saturdays, would come down to Club LaRay on Tuesdays and Fridays.” Club LaRay closed its doors in 1989, but the footage that remains tells its own story.  The music is on point and the dancing is effortless… Swipe through to check out these amazing clips! Slide 10: Image of Brian Foster, Quentin Kelly, Ray Hill, Mike Williams, and David Thurman
Photo credit: Linda Henderson (Gay Chicago Magazine, Aug 13, 1987) Slide 11: Inviation to a Club LaRay night. Tracklist  1. Mr Fingers - Can You Feel It 2. The Children - Work The Box (Original 4 Track Mix) 3. J.M. Silk - I Can’t Turn Around (House Mix) 4. Robert Owens - Bring Down The Walls  5. Ben E. King - Music Trance 6. Grace Jones - On Your Knees 7. Steve Silk Hurley - Jack Your Body 8. Black Ivory - Mainline 9. Fingers Inc. Ft. Robert Owens - It’s Over 10. Bas Noir - My Love Is Magic

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Monday 11 May 2026 00:19:43 GMT