Disco Music > Discotheques and Clubs Index > Club Zanzibar

Club Zanzibar

430 Broad St. Newark, New Jersey

Owner- Miles Burger

1st DJ- Hippie Torrales and Gerald T
Wednesday night jock was Larry Levan
After Hippie came such notararies as Larry Patterson, Francois K (Kevorkian), Tee Scott, Tony Humphries

Thanks to Hippie Torrales for the above info.

In December of 2003 I received the following e-mail with further information on Club Zanzibar.:

Hi Bernie,
First thanks for taking the time & effort to maintain this great site dedicated to Disco.

Just a little history on Club Zanzibar. Zanzibar actually started off as Abe's Disco at the Lincoln Motel with Gerald T as the house DJ.

Miles Berger, the owner of the Lincoln Motel, wanted to bring some of the New York Disco Nightlife to New Jersey afer visiting the Paradise Garage in NY. He had Richard Long & Associates design a sound, lighting & special effects system and converted the 2nd floor ballroom of the Lincoln Motel to become, what was then, the premiere club in NJ.

Opening night was Aug 29, 1979. Club Zanzibar had 2 levels with DJ Hippe playing the larger 2nd level & House DJ Gerald T playing the 1st level (the original Abe's). Eventually DJ Hippie became the full time house DJ from 1979 to 1981.

Al Murphy was hired by Miles to promote & manage the club. Under Al's management, a Wednsday night party was added which had area DJ's playing on Wednsday night's. That's how Larry Patterson, Larry Levan, T-Scott, Tony Humphries & others came to play at Zanzibar. After Al left to pursue other interests, Larry Patterson became the manager. T-Scott & Tony Humphries didn't become the house jocks until after 1981 when Hippie & I left.

I know this because I was Hippie's partner in the booth from 1979-1981. I operated the lights & special effects system.

Gracis para todos!!!
Rich Leon AKA "Chino"

The following photos kindly submitted by DJ Punch one of the former Zanzabar DJs.

Please feel free to link to this page by using this URL:
http://www.discomusic.com/clubs-more/890_0_6_0_C/

Zanzibar was the ultimate disco trip, there will never be another club in jersey that will match it, the sound system was off the hook the lights the crowd the whole experience, tony rocking the joint. I remember one of my first times getting in francios k was spinning he had the place rocking hard. thanks for posting this on the site

Zanzibar music will be lost forever. There
is not enough information about this great
Club. It would be a ideal great to start a complete music list of all the 12" that was played, I asking somebody Please to start a complete Web Site...
with song, title, year, artist, Imports, remix's and other information about the music. NY/NJ needs the music histroy of (Underground (Zbar) house music) We must keep Zanzibar alive.......

I was a "dancing queen"during that time.I started at Abes and went through whole zanzibar scene.Weds Thurs after work,Fri ,Sat and Sunday nights I was there.I remember Mesophotania by B52s,Same as it ever was by talking heads mixed with Weekend,Youre the one for me by D-Train and billie jean.I remember T scott and Tony telling me and my girls to go home at 4am so they could close.please contact me dol007

The "Zanz" was my home! I practically lived there. I remember dj Larry Levan
spinning Yoko Ono's "Walking on Thin Ice". Wow what a trip. I remember the air raid sirens, and the earthquake system, confetti falling out of the ceiling, there will never be another club to compare. "Long Live Club Zanzibar"!!!!
I want to shout out to all my zanzibar peeps.

Zanz was a landmark in Newark, NJ not just jersey as most non-New Jerseyites would say. Tony Humphries, Larry Patterson, Tee Scott helped create what is now known the soulful house or New Jersey House music.

Like Larry Levan/Francois K at the the Garage, they tested the waters with B-52's Mesopotamia, Talking Heads's Once in A Lifetime, Sharon Redd's Beat the Street and Martin Circus's Disco Circus and many other cuts.

My Aunt, 3 years my senior, would come home around noon Sunday and she'd tell me how Zanz was rocking. It made me a well-informed young DJ. I could not wait until I was old enough to go the clubs.

She spoke of Zanz and the Garage in the same breathe as far as the music goes. Both institutions had geniuses for DJs.

Those of us in the Newark Area, still play those classic cuts made popular at Zanz/Garage at house parties or on mix cds/tapes. Any time people in North Jersey who love classics clubs, they want to hear those cuts from Zanz and Garage.

We need a spot like that one but hip hop has dominated the clubs in the region. The Streets of Downtown still play classic club, house, gospel house on the corner and hip-hop on the next with a little classic soul for good measure.

I remember the first time I went to the Zanz. I was too young to get in, so my friends lied and said I was from outta town. See, I used to hear about the Zanzibar and thought what was all the hype was about it was just a club, Yeah until I got in there. You could feel the bass just standing at the door. But I wanted to go up stairs where everyone was talking about. That night Tony was expected to show, I have been a fan of his for a long time, so just being on the dance floor when he was spinning was a trip for me. I remember that was the night he introduced "Lift Every Voice and Sing" to the Zanz... The intro came on, and you know how Tony do it, he ran that intro for a minute, the lights were doing its thing and outta nowhere came the "Soul Clap". I stood in the middle of the floor in tears, waiting for the beat to drop and just when you thought is was Tony went back to the intro w/vocal, then came the beat. I started screaming !!!! That was a night to remember, and I will never forget the day Tony mad me cry in the middle of the dance floor.... Thank you Zanzibar

Who would belive that hotel would effect so many lives. Just to let you know on that opening night I took Kool & The Gang to the booth as a promo for the group and as a favor to Miles it was also being broadcast live over WNJR.

The early years of House Music 1984 to 1987 were, in my opinion dominated by one DJ and that's Tony Humphries. Early hits such as Like This, Music Is The Key, You Used To Hold Me were Zanzibar staples. Then Tony would mix it up with classics such as Just As Long As I've Got You, Where Were You When The Lights Went Out and his custom remixes of Love Is The Message and Music Is The Answer (those edits were crazy). The system was incredible the scene was cool. It was the right club at the right time. I enjoyed many a Saturday night there and the memories still make me smile to this day

Boy, just hearing the name Club zanzibar brings back fond memories, some of the best times in my life were spent there. standing next to the speaker and belting out ad-libs . watching Kareem dance his skinny behind off. Melvin Watson(RIP) walking around grand as if he owned the place. I miss Bird, chasing Sue trying to steal a kiss,actually chasing any girl who would stand still long enough(smile) dancing and acting crazy, Sheldon running things, so many memories, Halloween was always fun, wish I could find the pics from those days. Anybody from the 84-87 Zans heads drop me a line. flash and me on stage after trying to get famous, oh and the talent shows that I always used to win(smile)
Peace and Love
David(Faheen)Cook

Man the Zanz was my first club expeience I lived right up the Street in Baxter Terrace projects right on Orange Street. When I got around 15 i got the Fake I.D joint and me and some of my boys got up in that piece. We got buzzed in the purple room on the second floor and just danced for hours, the 3 day parties was the bomb too fri to sun just dont wash off the glow hand stamp and you was straight. I think that even though Tony Humphries was the God in the Booth, Naim Johnson and Merlin B could put the crowd in a trance. There will never Be Another Club Zanzibar, NEVER!

Well, there were many Zanzibar fan's from outside of the NJ area. A group of girls from Brooklyn, Queens & Staten Island would spend the night at a girlfriends house in Staten Island and head to the Zanzibar. WOW!! It definately became a destination club, in driving rain, snow, & a 1/4 tank of gas !! We celebrated lots of birthdays there and brought visiting friends. A longtime fan of the Warehouse, Garage, and who remembers the early Tunnel!!! We danced until they put us out , went for breakfast at a local diner and met a lot of people from Zanzibar and recalled the awesome mixes, intro's and new sounds! Hip hop may be the wave but it's a wave.. somebody should be hosting one night a month of real, pure disco and revisit the music and atmosphere of Zanzibar. In the last few years I have started rebuilding my music collections with great compilation cd's of disco and enjoying this great music at home & on vacation. A small group of girlfriends, many who who partied together are getting together in summer '06 to celebrate 40 years of friendship & disco music!

I am 45 years old now, however I started out at the Gallery when I was 13 years old hanging out with older people who were the forerunners of the underground music. I did not know then that Larry Levan was working the light show and/or hanging there as well.

Well, I then left the state and moved to Atlanta, Georgia and attended High School and then returned to New Jersey at age 18. Then went away to Pennsylvania to College and returned when I was 19 years. Its now the summer of 1979. Again, I meet an older guy who began to take me to the Village Clubs in New York, that being the ONE AND ONLY "PARADISE GARAGE". I immediately became addicted, because that disco experience was already implanted in my system at age 13.

I attended Upsala College, was a single parent and I was a Cheerleader and academically maintained my grades. However I always managed to party at Zanzibar on Wednesday nights, Chetas on Thursday night, the Garage on either Friday or Saturday night, I preferred Saturday night (Gay night) because even though I am straight, I appeared that Larry Levan really "played the s***" on Saturday nights and last but not least Docks on Broad Street, Newark, New Jersey on Sunday night. I just don't know how in the hell I maintained all that energy. But those were the days and sometimes I wish they could come back again.

I really miss the Garage, Zanzibar and last but not least, Larry Levan, he was a one of a kind DJ and way ahead of his time. I know that he is doing his thing in Heaven!!! Tragic that he left us at such an early age, 38. Imagine what heights he could have taken us to. Life is a vicious circle, as I read his background, we were always in the same circles and I did not even know it. To be in the Gallery when he was just the light man and to then go to the Garage only after six years had past, and he know was the HOST OF THE PARTY. AMAZING!!!! and I did not even know it, at that time, that he was the light man from the Gallery because he had not made a name for himself yet. I HELD THE GOLD MEMBERSHIP AT ZANZIBAR AND A MEMBERSHIP AT THE GARAGE!!!

Thank God I had brothers to babysit for me and indeed it was a sacrifice sometimes to have to leave Zanzibar to go be a Mother and a College Student. Sometimes, I was so addicted, that I would take my books with me to the Club Zanzibar and take a break from dancing and go in the bathroom to review my notes for Class. And as far as the Garage is concerned, I would pay heavy babysitter fees for my brothers to attend to my son because I was there until 12:00 NOON the next day. Thats an example of how much fun it was, I would do whatever it took to party on these specified nights no matter what.

LONG LIVE ZANZIBAR AND THE GARAGE. I sure hope someone opens another Garage and finds another Larry Levan, because I will be there!!!!!

DJ Hippie, Thanks for Being My Mentor on the Tables...I remember watching you for Hours at Docks and Zanz and Next Day Feeling Pumped to DJ all day... I Thank God for giving me the Clubbing Experiences that i had(Docks, Zanzibar, Paradise Garage, Studio 54, Limelight, Tunnel, Funhouse, Club America, Unos, Down-Under, 1018, Palladium, Red Parrot, The World, Copa, Cheetah Club, Paradisio, Levels, Club 88, Roseland, Studio 1, and many more...can't remember. THOSE WERE THE DAYS!

What ever happened to that mix that they played at the Zanz for Tony Humphries birthday "Happy Birthday Tony from Zanzibar..." A background of "Ma Foom Bey"..... ? That song always sticks in my head!!!!!

Hippie and Chino we are so glad to see you are still holding it down do you remember us " Turk" the Bey Boys and Malcom Turajii, Adil all of us used to be right there with you at Zanz and work there too remember sheldon and arron please write back

Okay, let's clean up some of this hype. I am too happy to read and hear of the resurging interests of real dance music. But first let me give credit where credit is due. For those of us from Newark, NJ...we must hail the pioneers of this fantastic music history. Fortunately I am one who carefully watched and groomed by the experts of this experience. How could anyone mention Zanzibar without mentioning Albert Murphy, Shelton Hayes at the door, and Larry Patterson on the tables, of note due to the gay experience that was surfacing. The history of this era is rich and one must dig back a little bit farther than what I'm reading here. There was a fabulous small club on Halsey Street called Le Jocks, this was before the popularity of Zanzibar. Zanaibar is a whole new ball game. Many of nights me and my friends would destroy the dance floor of Zanzibar. And if you were a true patron of the club, I know you can recall Richard Cureton, Joey Calendar and myself wearing the dance floor out. Times were also good at climbing the stairs to the club docks and the fabulous DJ Hippie, but this was a club that leaned more toward straight children who was fascinated with the explosion of being gay and out, without any cares, concerns, or fears.

In 1972 I was youngster (14 years old) and was hanging tough with Newark's jet setters, Al Murphy and Shelton Hayes. I too remember the parties at Al's house. I even remember when Al was the manager of the shoe store Market street (famous for platform shoes) Arrowsimiths. Back in the day the fashion scene was exploding and Newark was represented, thanks to Al Murphy. We must remember the fashion shows downtown with models who remain icons today. Just to mention a few...Billie Blair, Pat Cleveland and our own Sherry Gordon, Tommy, Juice, and photograhper Karen McDonald who is sister to the late fashion designer Jaime McDonald, who popularized the leather beannie hats that one would kill for.

Before Zanzibar there was the Show Case, which was managed be James Telefaro and that was a hot spot for teenagers coming into their own. We also had a small place for meeting just before we marched off to the clubs, one being Murphy's, which was a very tiny bar downtwon. I was doing the Gallery in NY with DJ Nicki Siano, and the Loft, with DJ David Mancuso, long before things really took off and got really hot in Newark. Those were the days!!! Long before the dance that Madonna refers to as Vogueing was a vicious dance referred to as dueling. I realize I may be loosing some of you now because I'm really going way-back. And we cannot forget the drag queen Bobby White and the balls.

Newark was ready for dance, drugs and the care-free spirit of the disco era from the preparation of those who were in the forefront of creativity.

We were running to the clubs in NY - Better Days, The Loft, The Gallery and last but not least PARADISE GARAGE, just to "get life."

I have collected an assortment of music from the day that I know is very hard to find. I hope someone is out there who knows what I'm talking about, if so please add some words to this wonderful memory.

To C.Jones, You are so right, I did not forget Al Murphy and Shelton Hayes, I just failed to mention them. There is so much clubbin history to speak of in the 70s and 80s that there is not enough submittal space here to do so. However, I give Al Murphy and Shelton Hayes their props. As a matter of fact, I had the pleasure of bringing in 2006 with Shelton Hayes. He still looks good and still has that joyful spirit. And Le Jocks, I had the pleasure of being in this club at the tender age of 13years old. I too hung out with the Jetsetters of Newark and I am straight but I was exposed to "CHILDREN OF NEWARK" gay community at a young age. I had a play sister who was gay and she took me everywhere with her and that is how the clubbin life began for me. Yes you are so correct, those were the days and I cherish them. The Loft, The Gallery, Buttermilk Bottom,Better Days, Garage, Docks, Cheetahs, etc. I too was at all of these clubs, and there was a system to it, certain nights were for certain clubs based on the crowd and the who was DJing. It is a blessing that we are able to share these memories together. Newark too was like a minature New York when it came to the club scene, as a matter of fact, alot of the patrons of the New York clubs were all from Jersey. However, lets not leave out East Orange, they had their little thing going on as well with the help of the Late Ronald Neilinson, Esq., who opened up clubs like Magoos, El Castille, Charades, and others. However, after the pioneering surge, YES ZANZIBAR BECAME THE HEARTBEAT OF IT ALL, JUST LIKE IN NEW YORK, AFTER THEIR PIONEERS, DAVID MANCUSO AND NICKY SIANO CAME LARRY LEVAN AND THE PARADISE GARAGE and it BECAME THE HEARTBEAT OF THE NEW YORK CLUB, which then considered Zanzibar to be the Jr. Garage. AND THOSE TWO HEARTBEATS INTERTWINED when LARRY LEVAN WOULD COME TO Newark at ZANZIBAR ON WEDNESDAYS TO DJ. Also, did you know that some of the engineering of the sound system and lights in Zanzibar imitated the Garage via Richard Long Systems. Mr. JOnes, I wish I could see your face, because I have a gut feeling, we even partied together and/or know one another. I am clubbing again, was just at the "LARRY LEVAN BIRTHDAY PARTY ON JULY 16, 2006 AT PANCHA, IT WAS LIKE OLD TIMES, AND the clubbin scene is on COMEBACK, Thanks for your submittal, GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP ON DANCIN!!! EMAIL ME DIRECTLY, philisestafford@yahoo.com

It is absolutely wonderful to read that the spirit of these times are still alive and strong in the heart and minds of many of us who "made it" through those times. Being a bit younger than most of you (38) I cannot go back in memories as far as the early 70's but I too started clubbing at a very early age (13). I have very fond memories of being a card carrying member of the Garage, and a strong part of the second Loft. Many early days at Better Days, Zanz, cheetas, Club 88, the Loft, the Sancturary, the World, the Tunnel even some of the early NJIT/Keane College parties often dj'd by a crew from Orange and East Orange called "Franchise", not to mention the countless number of NY "children's" clubs. I can even say I was apart of the movement of "Club music" (not HOUSE...house was Chicago/Detroit music), in DC with The Underground on Upshur st NW, Tracks in SW, several underground clubs like the Warehouse on North Capitol in the late 80's and finally ending with Baltimore's own the Paradox in 1990 long before it became what it is today. I wanted to post here not so much of remember clubs and people but to post to say thank you for keeping the memories alive and CORRECT. I have long since moved from NJ/NY first going to college then starting a life elsewhere and often find myself wishing for those days to return. Even as I type this I have been listening to many old mixes from www.deephousepage.com Check it out if you are unaware, its a great site to submit old recordings for all the world to share and learn from and relive. Philise and C. Jones though I am a little younger and have never met either of you, we share so similar lives as I believe many who come here do. When you writ eof the trance like state and the addiction to going to club, I can remember quite well all of those DJ's on their prospective nights. Many of whom I got to meet after the word got out of a "true child" out dancing many folks here...It has been great to connect in a small way with those wonderful memories and people. I am very LUCKY and PROUD to have lived in the time and place it all started. I take great pride listening to younger folks talk about that which they NEVER lived or even know, only in my mind to be thinking "you have no clue". Also let's not forget this great time period brought so much joy for us but also brought us great sadness for this time took so many of our loved ones way too early, no matter how you define love. LOVE IS LOVE!!! May you ALL REST IN PEACE! "You go boys" up there in Heaven until its time for us to join you all once again!!!!

I will never forget the first time I went the the Zanzibar. It was a Fri night. I been waiting to go to this club for 4 years. I finally got out the house when my parents were on vacation.
I met melven at the door r.i.p He Was very interesting. My Friend new him So it Was Easy to get in
Once You got in and you heard the base from downstirs and then you walked up stairs it was over !!!!!!
The 3 songs i will never forget on that sound system is we got our own thing , mu fum bay and, Tony use to kill it and lil lewis sax song.
I thank god every day I got to experience That. It changed my Life , clothing style and taste of music !!!!!
I did not hear Hippie at the Zanibar But I did hear him in the city
I had to bring a pad and pen to take notes Damm!!!!!!!!!
What happen to the music
DJ Jay Sample
groove music inc

I stumbled over this site by accident and was brought to tears of joy when I read some of these postings. I was 16 and in HS when I first stepped foot in the Zans. It was the 1st club that me and my girls had been to. I rememnber dancing on that stage in front of those missors ALL night long. I mean danced until we sweat! I remember seeing Col. Abrams and The Peach Boys... The pictures that we took sitting in that wicker chair are long gone but the memories are still there. Long Live 7th Ave!

Hello people: Hippie Torrales here. First I must say that it warms my heart to know that Zanzibar has such fond memories for so many. I also have fond memories and am proud to have been one of the lucky people to have been involved with it. I'd like to shed a little more light on the whole scene as it was evolving in Newark. C. Jones is correct in giving Al Murphy and Larry Patterson credit for being some of the early pioneers of opening up Newark to great parties and bringing some of Galleries and Loft's part ideas to Newark. But there were also others that helped along the way. As mentioned Murphy's was already establishing itself as a hot pre party spot. and Showcase was also a great place on Brandford St (with DJ Acid Queen John at the tables). You also had Shaniques which though catering to a more straight crowd did have it's share of influence (with it's living room style club which I believe influenced Sensations later on). Now after Murphy and Patterson left Le Jocks Butchie (owner of Docks and Hardcore) and I took it over for sometime before we opened Docks. You had El Castillo up in the Oranges which was actually where Larry Patterson crossed over to a more varied crowd and made a big name for himself and El Central in Jersey City which was the spot to be even before I ever heard of Gallery or Loft. When Zanzibar opened Al Murphy was not involved in it. It was being managed by a manger named Desmond (who had been managing Abes for sometime before they opened Zanz) and that is how it was run for the first 3 months. I was the one that kept telling Miles Burger (Zanz Owner) he had to bring Al Murphy in. Al and I started working together when Butchie decided he wanted to start a gay night on Wednesdays at Docks (that was truly the start of Wednesday gay nights in Newark before Zanz) Al started the ball rolling by advertising and gettin the word out and the rest was history. Now when Miles finally decided to bring Al in it was originally just for Wednesday nights (and for those who don't know Larry Levan was the house jock for Wednesday nights, it was the only other club outside of Paradise garage he was allowed to do) but eventually he managed all the nights. Now when Al entered the picture I was Djing Fridays and Gerald T was doing Sat but Al wanted me to play both days on the weekend so he convinced me to give Miles the news that I should play both days. Miles went for it and I ended up the DJ on both days from that point on. Now I wanted to bring guest Dj's in every once ina while in return I would play at there clubs and everyone agreed in principal but in practice it was not to be. All of the jocks we were bringin in were gay and playing in gay clubs (levan, Scott, Patterson etc......) but for some unknown reason (to me) I would never get to play in there clubs. Maybe cause I was young and straight, can't really say but it never happened. Anyways I did Zanz from '79 till '81 when I was let go. By then me and Al were not seeing eye to eye. And I went on to other clubs (such as 88 evergreen, Magoos,etc....) and still to this day DJ around the world. If you guys would like to get in touch with me you can contact me at myspace.com/hippietorrales.

Peace, Hippie Torrales

THose days will never be forgotten, I traveled from Brooklyn to Zanzibar hear Tee Scott tear the place up. I enjoyed those Saturday's and the Anniversary Party's. Never a dead moment, the club will be miseed forever. New Jersey had a vibe of it's own which differed from New York, I enjoyed the people in Jersey always welcomed you with love.

You are right those days will never be forgotten! I started going to Zanz in 82. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. I used to take my little brother to teen night. Teen nights was even poppin! Any downloads available?

Born this way...song that I will not forget at the ZANZ. Just a taste of all the great underground sounds back in the early to mid 80's. Those days were the best, of course when I was in my early twenties. Keep clubbin' and housen' it. Joe cool AKA Mr. Sweets http://www.deephousepage.com/mixes

Hippie,

It was so nice to hear that you are still up and poppin. I remember you, even if you do not remember me. Me and Rigoberto Salas were an item back then. I was the black slender girl with the grace jones haircut and me and Rigo would tear up the floor. We were there on Wednesdays and Fridays, but our Saturdays was for the Paradise Garage. It is good to hear that you are doing okay. Me, myself, I am a paralegal now, but I still club, I am on the mailing list for West End Records, Disco Fundraiser, Deephouse and Ain't NothinbutaHouse Party, so that I can keep abreast of all upcoming classic club parties and the Larry Levan,Paradise Garage Tribute Parties.
HIPPIE, KEEP ON DANCIN!!!!!

I didn't read all the threads, but I got the gist of what its all about. It's always good to read about the inner workings...me, I was just a lowly club-goer...most of the spots mentioned in the previous threads I'd been to at one time or another, but probably only Zanzibar can i say i was a regular at (there, Docks, Shaniques...but mainly Zanz).
A big thrill I had long after it was all over was sitting outside this little spot in South Beach Florida, a few people sitting, sippin' and reminiscing, with the main man Hippie Torrales. Man you brought me so much joy, it was a pleasure to be in your company.

I remember Hippie coming out of the woodwork (for me) to play a gig at Duplex in Brooklyn a few years ago, and at first we wondered if he'd lost the plot...then he dropped Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" (and what DJ's these days have the balls to do something like that...you can count them on one hand), and from there on, I was transported back to Broad Street Newark's Lincoln Motel...ZANZIBAR...up til 7 in the morning (my son wasn't a happy camper when Daddy came to pick him up...took him home and basically passed out for the rest of the day. Hippe, keep doing what you're doing, as long as it is viable and satisfying to you.

Thanks everyone else for the great behind-the-scenes, "for those who know" stories...like I said, I showed up, dance my a** off, and went home happy (that was from opening night in 1979 (yes folks, I'm old), right through to the latter part of the 80's (that is after 1985). Didn't know the names of the dance floor mavens, or the style kings(and queens), but I'm sure that I rubbed shoulders with some of the names mentioned.

The Z-bar was the ultimate in club experience. The sound was incredable the in my mind and heart will live for ever. Thanks for the memories. Big ups Tony,Larry, T-scott and all the other legendary DJs that ever played there.

Hi All you old heads. I was doing a google search on my name and this site came up.Thank you all for bringing back some great memories.May GOD keep you all in his pease. NO MORE JUMPING OFF SPEAKERS.....

Rigo,

Hi partner, I hope you read all my party stories, because you know you were my sidekick, you and I experienced all of what I stated about the Clubs together!!!! I am so glad you found the site. I was praying that you would. When I remember those days, a picture of you dancing with me and other things immediately come to mind!!! We have to hook up at the next Paradise Garage Reunion Party and/or the Larry Levan Birthday party!! Need to know if your skills are still up. OH AND BY THE WAY, YOU DID MUCH MORE THAN JUMP OFF SPEAKERS, THE WAY WE DANCED TOGETHER WAS SO IN TUNE, WE WERE A PERFECT MATCH. KEEP ON DANCIN!!!!

I remember going to Abe's one night. I'm Puerto Rican, grew up like a white guy from Belleville. I went with a girl i was dating. When i walked in, i was like....oh s***....everyone was black. Some turned around and looked at us, then they carried on again like if nothing was going on. My girl was telling me, let's go. I said no. We got a drink and started to dance. No one bothered us at all. I felt like a rasin in a bowl of rice, but i will never forget Abe's. Thank you everyone that was there that night. We had a great time. Always in my memories.

Oh my how can you all forget the search lights and Happy Birth Tony at Zanzibar!!!! that was the red carpet event of NJ!!! If I was ever turned out it was by the zanz!!!! I can still hear the bass bumping and the way Tony use to bring my songs in under the current song almost like a wisper!!! Many a guy has been left flat do to me hearing my song coming on!!! The VIP Room, the tables of fruit!!!! Many have tried but no one I mean no one will ever be able to recapture the vibe and love of ZANZIBAR!!!!

NO one has said anything about George Rodriguez? Has anyone heard from him? Where is he and what is he doing? Is he alright out there???? Who is in charge of Larry Levan's music? I am trying to find some of his stuff. Also the stuff Rodriguez produced for the Zanz....any info from anyone???please contact me...
thanks

ZANZIBAR DID NOT START TO JUMP UNTIL TONY HUMPHRIES TOOK OVER AS DJ!! SOME NIGHTS HE HAD EVERY LAST PERSON IN THE CLUB DANCING WHEN HE WAS BEHIND THE THORENS LETS JUST SAY TILL THIS DAY THERE IS NO DJ IN THE WORLD LIKE HIM

Wow!! I just "googled" the site for the Paradise Garage and now I stumbled across this one. It is so great to see someone even took the time out to make such a great tribute to both of these world renowned clubs!! I too was an avid member of Zanzibar and the Garage. Larry Levan was a GOD to say the least. I would club it up at the Garage on Friday's and would hit Zanz on Saturday. Those were the days! I was even able to order some of Larry's classic CD's through the Garage website (just google Paradise Garage and click on his name). When I come home to visit in Newark, I always stop by the Dollar Store on Norfolk to buy some of Naeem Johnson's CD's. I am now in the process of ordering some mixes from Tony Humphries! I partied at those two clubs from '81 until both of them closed. The baggy pants and torn t-shirts -- and don't forget sprinkling the baby powder on the floor!!! Go Bang, Hip Hop Bebop (Don't Stop), I Was Born This Way, Martin's Circus (just to name a few). Dancing in front of the mirrors until daybreak!! Those never ending spins on the dancefloor. Oh yes, if you couldn't spin then take your a** someplace else!! I can still hit that same spin with my 42 year old a**!! It is so glad to read these thoughtful memories of the clubs we will never forget. Hippie, you keep doing your thing the way you always knew how to do it!! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!

--Robin Lindsey (E.O., NJ)

lol.. a Zenji club in NJ ? thats cool.
i don't think Zenji/Jangbar people even know about this.

( Zenji/Jangbar/Unguja - pet names for Zanzibar )

chill..

btw,, if i ever come to US i want a free entrance to this club <3 <3 <3 <3

I don't know how I got to this site; but boy!!! it brought back many memories. I'm 44 years old from Newark, NJ; I started clubbing in the clubs in 1981 at Z-Bar & Docks. Wow I didn't know Hippie was at the Zanzibar; he was at Docks by the time I started and Naim Johnson was his understudy at Docks a few years later. I partied at all the clubs mentioned about Cheetahs, Cosmos, The Shadow, The Garage, Magoos etc. In 1981 at the age of 17, I finally got into Zanzibar after changing my clothes several times. Sheldon was a tough cookie; I got ejected many nights. But, once I got in it was all over. Sheldon never gave me any trouble from then on. At Docks, you has Butchie at the door you needed a membership to get in or come with somone with a membership to get in. Eventually, I got my own membership card. I remember Hippie playing the last song for the nite "Walking in the Rain" or something like that... But before 1981 living in Newark I had my share of house parties in Hillside and the Weequahic section and the bar louges on Clinton Ave in Irvington (I don't remember the names Club something and the Coronet) with the DJs from Mark 4 & Gentleman of Leisure. Does anybody remember those guys?

I was feeling some good club music after coming back from vac. and zanzabar came to my head. after googling the zanz this page came up and blew my mind. I was between 17-20 when I first started. remember the fake ID's that you prayed was gonna work that night. I loved tony humphries. remember dancing to the gospel group the clark sisters? i

remember the fine a** guy at the door? I thimk his nAME started with a M. I need club music from zan bad for my ipod. any info please let me know
meme....

Same here I don't remember how I stumbled across this site either, however I too am from essex county (Newark, Irvington and EOrange) I was one of the younger models hanging with the local older models like Jasper, Rosemary Crusar etc. I remember when Grace Jones was there spitting on her mesculine head fans! I also remember Stanley Williams as a club dj also. Also the Coronet in Irvington had about 3 parties going on at the same time, and coming back from the Paradise Garage at 11am on the Path Train. Peace

hi Ruby, receied your email and tried to respond. Life is so funny we may very well know each other. I would love to chat about back in the day. Im from jersey city so you know I am very familiar with that path train. Im in atlanta . if you happen to stumble upon this page again send your email
peace... meme

Hey all Zanz headz!!

I too was mesmerized by the Zanzibar sound!! I was too young to experience the spinning of DJ Hippie, but I remember going crazy when TonyHumphries was in the booth. Songs like "CLOUDS" and "I KNOW YOU, I LIVE YOU" by Chaka Khan, "WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR ME" by Labelle, The Peach boys "DON'T MAKE ME WAIT", Jungle Wonz "TIME MARCHES ON", Eddy Grant "NOBODY'S GOT TIME"..... So many memories!!!!

If someone hasn't already. We should probably mention David Morales. I'm not a huge fan of Davids but I respect him as a DJ.

I didn't start going to the Zanz until 1986 so my memories are not as deep as a lot of the wonderful people on this page. So, I appreciate hearing about some of the other great Clubs that I never got to attend.

A Memory

One Wednesday night sometime in 88. My cousin and I went to the Zanz. At this point Wednesday nights were coming to an end. To our surprise Tony was spinning. Soon after David Morales showed up. We guessed it was an akward situation because Tony and David had a few words in the booth. Couldn't hear of course but it looked a little heated. We took it that David was suppose to spin but hadn't showed so Tony step in. I guess neither wanted to leave. Then Tony got back on the tables and lit it up. David then followed with a nice series of mixes. I had never heard David song so good. But my hat went off to Tony Humphries of course. You would have thought the place was packed. My cousin and I couldn't believe what we had Witnessed. I don't remember how it ended but we really enjoyed that night. I hope someone on this page was their that night. Because knowone believes us. We were not that high.

I would also like to big up all the artist who we watched perform: Sylvester, First Choice, Lolita Hollaway, Colonel Abrams, Vauhn Mason, Monfu, Joyce Simms, Entouch and a host of others. CeCe Rodgers on the first level (before he released his single Someday). Henrock thanks for mentioning those songs, I love them all. I also like hearing "BABY WANTS TO RISE", "WHITE HORSE", "GOING DOWN" and "VIRGO TRACKS REPLAYED".

I still have a lot of those records. My crate game is vicious.

Big Tony

YO BIG TONY & ALL YOU ZANZ FANS!!!

I give mad props to David Morales as well-I used to check him out when he was spinning at the World in NYC. Tony H., however, truly inspired me to learn how to spin myself, back in the day, and the present day!!
There was one thing that used to get me upset, though. When I was out shopping for those hot cuts I would hear at the Zanz-at record shops like "Movin' Records" in East Orange, or "Vinylmania" in the Village-I would bring in my cassette of the song in, and either Joe, Abby, or Jerry would just shake their heads and tell me "Oh, that's Tony's exclusive version" or "You won't be able to get that for months!!" Man, that would get me heated, but I understood...It was Tony Humphries after all.

BTW
I still have a WHOLE LOT of music from that time, dating from mid 70's to mid 90's. Right now I'm trying to convert all my wax to CD and/or MP3, and I'm also getting ready to hook up some mixes for everyone to enjoy and REMINISCE!! I'LL KEEP YA'LL POSTED!!

The Zan... Wow .. I remeber so much.. Going in the dark and comming out the sunlight welcomed me... That big mirror in front of the DJ .. I dance in front of it all night.. Saw Colonal Abrams there and other live groups.. White Castles after.. Its was a fantastic time for me to be me...

There will NEVER, EVER, be another Club like ZANS! I have been to numerous clubs in NY back in the late 70's early 80's and NOTHING, I MEAN NOTHING beats ZANZIBAR's!!! We would drive in car loads from NY just to party there!! As soon as we got in, we would race upstairs and dance ALL NITE. Walking out in the daylite and all Wet from dancing, and taking a quick nap and back up dancing again!! Now adays these clubs do not measure up to the music and performances we used to see. I will forever miss those times at ZANZIBARS!!!

OMG...it's been awhile since I've been here. It's amazing that people can still remember Zanzibar. What's more amazing is that I finally managed to locate my old booth partner Hippie. There are times when I hear an oldie but goodie come on & my fingers start going like I was still doing the lights there. BTW Dwayne, Zanzibar was jumping way before Tony took over as DJ.
"Chino"

I am so happy I found this page! I thought I was the only one holding a torch for my nights at Zanzibar, Better Days, etc. I'm 40 now, but I would be out there dancing tonight if I could find a place with the same incredible music, people and vibe happening...I would have enjoyed it even more if I know it would not last forever...sigh...

i grew up in zanzibar, this was the best memories in my life , iwish i could turn the clock back, if anybody have info of hoiw i could get cd's of larry or t scott pelase e-mail me

Hi Pepe,

Go to deephousepage.com you can download mixes from some of the great DJ's of all time. Larry, Tee Scott, Tony, Timmy, David Mancuso, Frankie Knuckles, Naeem and others.

PS is the Pepe that dated my sister Cherry?

Later,
Big Tone

Man, zanza's was the spot back in the day!! Hard to believe it's been over 20 yrs. I was 21 when I first went there. I had moved from union county to ocean county, so zanza's was an hour and 1/2 drive for me, but it was well worth it!!! I would sweat till there wasn't a curl left in my head. Daylight would smack you in the face when you would leave, and me and my girls would be lookin a hot mess from dancin and sweatin all nite!! We still would get da digits though :-) We enjoyed every minute of it, and it wouldn't be long before we were taking that drive to Newark again. Thanks for the memories, I had a ball!!!! :-)

This was some of the best memories,of my life. d.j's like larry levan,t- scott and others inspired me to become a d.j of that era, club music and zanzibarn will alway be a part of me pepe

Man this website is so cool. It's like it connects us all in some way, and puts a smile on your face as you read the comments reminising about the fun you had. Hey I got a question for you guys, did any of you ever leave zanza's, go home shower, and then had to go to work? I couldn't do it, but I had some friends that used to do that often. Now that's some die hard partying!!!

Aiiight, I found this site and I'm getting emotional. I'm from Newark, age 48 I went to Arts High (class uh 77) Remember? Yeap we wuz da crew, Al Murphy, The Shaniques crowd, James Taliferro(rest in peace), Russell Garnes, Ralph McNeal. Zanz was it! I remember, while attending Clark College, myself and three other NJ club addicts jumped in a yellow volkswagen beetle with no floor boards and drove 867 miles just to dance at Zanz. We got to Newark around 6pm saturday, hit the club at 11pm. After they put us out we jumped back in the volks and drove back to school. I slept for 2 days. I'm down here in the bible-belt and looking for links to get some of the music back. Let's do this again, the music's still got me.....D

songs like love sensation,doctor love,love is the message,love thing,and the way larry master re-mixing them kept me coming to the zanz week after week i feel honored to have experience these times

I remember the ZANZ REAL WELL! Growing up in Trenton, We could pickup WBLS and 92KTU and KISS FM back in the day. That was just the beginning,In 1982 me and my parents moved from west trenton to hamilton township right outside of trenton I met new friends my age and BAMM found about the ZANZ! I was hooked I mean as soon as we parked and walked up to the line you could hear the mirrors inside rattling! when we finally got inside the system was mindblowing we were all kind of wanta be dj's back in the day.U NO technic 1200 and digital delays,cerwin vegas,but those were just basement party's we had nothing like the ZBAR. I can actually remebering wearing a hole in a pair of penny loafers dancing all night long. The baby powder was awsome, so was standing in front of the speakers to cool off from the breeze of the woofers, and the drinks were on point. One night my friends were not going so I decided to go by my self good OL NJ TRANSIT, I walked from penn station up market st to broad st and it was on. I was dancing and all of the sudden I seen some old people i grew up with in west trenton so we hung out and had a good time. so had new friends who had turned me on to the ZANZ and old Homie's who also new what was up to. so just like I read on this web site previously It's all true leaving when the sun is up, going to breakfast whitecatles,MCKEY D'S. But one thing I think that was not mention does anybody remember every leaving the club and riding the train home and having the music still ringing in your ear to the rythm of the train and not losing your balance when walking on the train? I started to go alot by my self I loved that place. I had a baby girl in 87 and moved to san diego for a short while. they did not know anything about house music.I asked the dj at a local club about Mr Fingers,Joe smooth,D Train, and he look at me like I was crazy!It wasn't long before I was on a grayhound on my way back to JERZEE. When i got back house had made it way south a little bit more to Trenton's little clubs and corner bar's, so when the money was a little short for newark trenton had to due, but philly was catching on,and it's cheaper to catch a train to philly from trenton, so philly was the spot for a while. nothing like the ZBAR. Then it was B-MORE, just like philly lots of hole in the wall clubs, nothing like the ZANZ, Now it about 92-93 I could not stand it anymore I jumped on amtrak in B-MORE and I did not get off until I got to NEWARK and just like before i walked to the ZANZ When I kinda had a feeling things had changed for the worse I could not hear the music outside when i got inside i could not believe it there was grafftie sprayed on the wall. the music was terrible No tony H I think i must have stayed a couple hours max. IT WAS THE END OF TIME FOR ME. I went back to B-MORE for a while Then decided to go west to the bay area, in the west they were calling house music rave and techno i was like that's bullshit, but there was a litte rival for me on a small scale, one night i was working at the desk of a homeless shelter in san francisco listening to the local radio station when they did a interview with the one and only TONY HUMPRIES I almost hit the ceiling telling my coworkers I used to watch him spin records in JERZEE. Living out west i only get bits and pieces of real house music same thing when i lived in minneapolis. satellite radio or internet. I used to come up from trenton to E ORANGE to get my music Joe and ABBY always had the HARD s***. I don't care what any body say's Iam a house head for ever Iam 43 and I took all my collection and put it on CD'S My only regret is i should have followed house music when it moved to europe. it could have lasted a litte longer. it made me good to watch video's of axiom studio in newark on cyberjam radio but they disapeared all of the sudden. Can anybody tell me what happen with them? I use to sit back and watch and drink a saint pauly Girl and be with them in spirit here in portland OR. No house music clubs in the pacific northwest and very little black people but plenty of good jobs and real clean air. The ZANZIBAR is permanently imbeded in my mind and soul.

My memories were in the "90's" getting in @ 17 w/ a fake id. Every weekend that was the place to be!!! I just turned 30 and I can remember those times like it was yesterday. Times were bad then in Newark but not as bad as they are now. Zanz was the place to go & dance until you sweat. God how I had fun...

I remember those days at the Zans.. The music the lights... the sound was awsome.. I also would hit "Sir Richards" and listen to my man Andre Torres spin the music. Anyone out there would remember the different levels and different vibes you would get once you entered the arms of the Zans.. Fake ID, I didn't have one. I had that look though which made it all the more adventurous... Getting the numbers and having the sun hit you and people looking at you in your dance clothes while you eat breakfast.. UUUUmmm that was some good eating..
Remember taking the pictues when you 1st got there... The bamboo chair with the palm tree. Those were the days.
Every time I return to Jersey I hit Market St to get at CD and bring it to the Carolina's. Turn my back its GONE..
Anyway, thanks for the memories
Dana

THIS IS WHERE ALL OUR MEMORIES ARE IN AND THE BUILDING STILL STANDS TILL THIS DAY. ALL OUR GOOD, BAD , AND HAPPY NIGHTS LEFT IN ZANZIBAR 420 BOARD STREET. WE LOVE YOU TONY HUMPHRIES

i have very few words...except to say miss you much tony and every one who ever went through those doors

OMG, I came in 2nd place in a Daisey Duke contest at the Zanz, and I had on jeans. Loved it all, black, black and more black did I own any other color? If I could turn back the hands of time. No one dances in the clubs anymore. I dont know what that mess is they do now. shot out to all you 7th ave heads.

I grew up in Newark. I was 16yrs old when I first went to the Zans. Tony Humphreys used to habg out on my block and do parties at Big A house. As soon as I stepped into the Zans and felt the vibration of the music bouncing of the walls I was hooked. It seemed like the second floor was going to come down at any minute. At that time Tony used to kill Colonel Abrams, Music IS THE ANSWER and my all time Tony Humphries mix RELEASE THE TENSION. Man if you only knew. The Zanzibar will always and forever be my first and last love for a nightclub. The best part of my life then was spent inside of THE ZANS. Thank you so much for having this sight, you really don't know the joy, happiness and memories that you give to people that were true Zan Heads. Thank You

Oh yeah, I can't forget to give my love and appreciation to Naim Johnson for holding us down when the Zans started to fold. Club Sensations was the second coming.

i just read a e-mail from shepard ave, which is in the weequahic section where i grew up, i lived on weequahic ave and now ilive in boston,ma the zanz was my second home i could never get enough hearing the re-mix of song like love sensation,love is the message and martin circus and other song that larry and t- scott did there magic on, these are timeless classic that will alway be in my heart i wish i could turn the clock back one day to relive this era if any body from the weequahic section is out there holla back. pepe

I'm looking for a song they used to play @ Zanz back in da day. I don't know the name of it, but it went, "Shooby Doo Run Run Run". Anybody know the cut I"m talkin bout? What's the title/artist?

this page is so tight. i CAN'T get enought of reading all of the postings. pepe you seem to enjoy to. smile...
remember the motel next door, and seeing kids up all night. remember the song form the clark sisters? still trying to find th classic joints help meme.

HEY Y'ALL, DJ HENROCK HERE

JENNIFER: THE SONG YOUR LOOKING FOR... ROY AYERS-"RUNNING AWAY".

MEME: NOT SURE, ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT "YOU BROUGHT THE SUNSHINE"?

DJ HEENROCK: DAMN.... SO RIGHT. FUNNY BUT WE WERE PROBABLY AT THE SAME SPOT AT THE SAME TIME. MY BOYFRIEND YEARSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS AGO, LIVED IN 7TH AVE PROJECTS, BUT I WAS FROM CHILL TOWN JC. (LOL) KNOW WHERE I CAN GET SOME GOOD CLASSIC MUSIC? THANKS FOR RESPONDING
MEME....

DJ Henrock, thank you soooooooooo much!!! I have been looking for this song for awhile.

Meme: I found a bunch of the old cuts on limewire.com. The stuff they played at Zanz, cheetah's and the garage.

Girl I'll House You
Move your Body
Love Sensation
Nobody's Business
Follow Me
You Used to Hold Me
Just to name a few.

DJ Henrock,
There's another cut I remember, but don't know the name. They played it at Zanz's and the lyrics were a gospel song, but it had a strong bass line. The only words I can remember are "respect yourself" and something about "joy". Do you know the one I'm talking about?

SORRY, JENNIFER...YOU STUMPED ME ON THAT ONE!! NEED MORE INFO. LIMEWIRE IS A GOOD PLACE TO GET ALOT OF THOSE TRACKS. HERE'S A FEW I'VE FOUND:

LAMONT DOZIER- "GOING BACK TO MY ROOTS"
BOBBY KONDERS- "THE POEM"
GEORGE DUKE- "I WANT YOU FOR MYSELF"
CEYBIL JEFFRIES- "LOVE SO SPECIAL"
EDDIE KENDRICKS- "GOIN UP IN SMOKE"
BRAINSTORM- "LOVING IS REALLY MY GAME"

Pepe if you grew up over there then you know what I'm talking about when i mention great dj's such as Tariq Yates, Tim and Lou from the Fog, Ali and Shaheed from weequahic ave. Daryl and Tony Woods, Big A Mcphearson and great dancers like Barry, Andre Hall r.i.p, (Gargage and Zanz favorite)Leroy r.i.p, man we probably are family through some way or another you know how we stuck togrther over there. I come from the Perry Family. Get back at me.

I WANTED TO FIND OUT IF ANYONE WAS AT THE LAST PARTY TONY H. PLAYED AT THE ZANZ.
THAT PARTY LASTED NEARLY 24 HOURS!!! I REMEMBER TONY MIXING HIS PERSONAL VERSION OF "LOVE SO SPECIAL" WITH "BLACK BETTY", THEN HE TOOK THAT TRACK OUT, AND MIXED IN "ALL I DO"... THE FOG MACHINE CAME ON AND I WENT BANANAS!!! THERE WAS ALOT OF TEARS SHED THAT DAY

hey, shepard ave i know every one you talking about, all the people you mention i grew up with, i lived on bergen and weequahic ave i live a few houes down from shaheed R.i.p and a few houses up from ali so i know i know you it good to hear from someone from the hood stay strong if you want to reach me e-mail me at rhlloway@yahoo.com

jennifer, i was just reading your post and like pepe and sheppard we were probably hanging the same tme. remember the fine guy at the door? merlin? what do i google at limewire?. just wanted to express how happy i was when when i found some funky mixes on itunes. found a mix by larry levin with . native new yorker and inside out by odyssey,baby im scared of you, womack,clouds, chaka, heartbeat, taana gardner, lost in music, sister sledge, once in a lifetime, talking heads,situation, by yaz etc... girllllll. i can go on. meme. in the ATL. EMAIL cunningham1159@bellsouth.net

DJ Henrock,
I wasn't at the last party, but I wish I had of been!!!! What lead to Zanz's closing anyway, and what year was it?

Meme,
I don't remember Merlin, and your probably right, I bet we were in da club around the same time. I'll shoot you an email about limewire.

Meme,
Since you are in the ATL, you can go to Earwax Records on Spring Street to get some really good club classic mixes. I've been in Atlanta since 1991 and was an avid member of Zanz and the Garage back in the day (1980 until they both closed). I posted a message early on when I first discovered this site. Anyway, I have some really good cd's I listen to everyday!! I have cuts like Love Sensation, You Ain't Really Down, Girl I'll House You,, Aint' No Mountain High, My Love is Free, etc. If you ever get a chance to go to Earwax, you'll be able to listen to the CDs before you purchase them; believe me, you will go absolutely crazy listening to them. Talk about going way back! I lost my mind when I heard Go Bang (Bango). Let me know if you can't find any good ones and I'll be able to burn some for you. I'm in Snellville, right next to Stone Mountain.

Oh my goodness this is really taking me back to the days when music was "special". Between Zanzibar and the Paradise Garage I do not believe it gets any better. I am doing a throw back party tomorrow to that era. I get a chance to flash back to the time when it took us a couple of days to get the full capacity of ears working again from that awesome ZANZIBAR SOUND SYSTEM.. Got a question. Anyone remember a song "without you". It went something like..without you, I just can't know, I can't know, without you. Anyone remember the artist who made that track? be blessed everyone...

DJ Prophet,
Was it the song by Ten City; Gotta Get you Back (Into My Life)? "Without you, I don't know what I'll do........My life feels so empty, like a puzzle you're the missing piece......" That's the only song I can think of that says anything about without you.

Robin

Robin Lindsey,
I had forgot about that song, it was a good one. I'm having trouble finding it. Are you sure it was Ten City? Do you know where I can find it?

Dj Prophet, Robin, Jennifer:

Actually, it was TOUCH who did "Without You". I'm having trouble finding it on MP3, though.

Thanks DJ Henrock! All this time I thought it was Ten City. Was Ten City the ones who did "Right Back to You"? I have that mix on CD also.

Yes, Robin, Ten City did that one. They had many hits back then like:
Devotion
Suspicions
Whatever Makes You Happy
That's the Way Love is
I Should Learn to Love You
My Peace of Heaven

Thanks DJ Henrock! It is so awesome to reminisce and remember these songs and great times we had during the original club era in this tri state area. It looks like I am going to have to go back to one of my boys who has about 20 crates of my vinyl classics that I need to put on CD or MP3. My DJ partner who works for UPS, says that there is a new vinyl to CD dubbing machine that allows you to place the vinyl record in it, and it will record and track the tracks to CD or MP3 files without interruption with no need to watch the record while recording. When I converted to CD's from vinyl it was so time consuming. There are some songs that we will never be able to get on download from Limewire because they are only on vinyl. It is a fact that vinyl will always live for those who want to experience the ultimate in club classics!

Yeah guys I can't find "Without You" either. My girl from east orange said it was by Hanson & Davis, but the only song I found by them was "Hungry For Your Love", which I rememember but don't really want. I tried looking for it under the the name "TOUCH" also, but I'm not having any luck.

DJ Prophet, If you find it on vinyl, maybe you can upload it for the rest of us :)

In the meantime, I'll keep looking

Hi Iam in the middle of doing some homework, stared thinking about those days at club Zanzibar. I heard some music it started to to take me back to those days. I miss those days so much! It waes the best club in the world with some of the best DJ's that jersey would have ever known. Tony Humphies will always be missed. I will always keep Club Zanzibar alive in my heart.

To all house and classic heads pay close attention. My name is Ali and I grew up in Newark in the Weequahic section. I am a house head until the day I die. I even put in my Will to play nothing but classics at my funeral. Anyway, I've been living in Las Vegas for the past fifteen years. I am a promoter and marketing guy for Big Tyme Entertainment and U.M.G(Urban Marketing Group). I found this page about a week ago and I am so surprised and happy to see that I am not the only crazy person that talk and reminisce about some of the best times of our lives. I am so enthused about this whole thing that I want to put together a Zanzibar/Paradise Garage Party Weekend out here in Vegas. If this is something that everyone is possibly interested in please feel free to e-mail me at urbanmarketinggroup@hotmail.com I would need some assistance in putting this together. Not monetarily, because I'm okay in that department but some help in getting the word out and setting up travel arrangements. If this is something that you guys and gals think will be successful then please get back at me. Again, I am open to any suggestions such as what time of year,what DJ's to hire(TONY HUMPHRIES) of course and what type of format should I follow. I have people that do all of this already but I don't want to interfere with there normal work duties and I think that getting input from the people that lived in this particular time and era and experienced the things that we had at that time would be more valuable to make this Weekend another unforgettable experience. Thank You all and I look forward to hearing from you about this matter.

Ali,
That sounds like a great idea! I grew up in East Orange and my last year at EOHS (1982) I lived on Jelliff & Avon in Newark. As I stated earlier, I was a Zanzibar and Garage fanatic back in the day. The Zanz and Garage weekend in Vegas sounds like a really good idea. I haven't been to Vegas in years since my father passed away who lived out there, but this is something I will definitely be interested in being a part of. I will be willing to help in any capacity you need me. My email address is redrobin@bellsouth.net

Sounds good to me too! This will present the opportunity to possibly meet those we've corresponded with on the site, dance to our old school again, and see people we partied with that we haven't seen or heard from in years. And if Tony's available to dj, that would really be the icing on the cake!!

I need to see more pic's. I know I'm not the only one who took a picture sitting in that wicker chair. I will have mind up by Friday.

Don't be like that!

Anybody know whatever happen to Ce Ce Rodgers? I remember he use to play on the first floor for a while before "Someday" came out (1987).

For all you Zans/Garage alumni, here's an invitation to join our yahoo group: "Love is the Message" Weequaqhic section in the hiz-zous. Arts High Class of 77....

I"m from NWK as well and grew up in all the clubs mentioned with the help of my older brother and his friends. I just wanted to say that there is a distinguishing difference in the DJs from the NY/NJ area that cuts it all when it comes to CLUB MUSIC. I have traveled around the world for the most part in the military and there is NO SOUND BETTER THAN HOME!!!

You can put on all the tapes and listen to all the DJs you want to and you can TELL THE DIFFERENCE in who is from NY/NJ and everywhere else. I just started recording my shoebox tapes and it's been taking me back. I'm talking tapes from 78-83 that are in good condition thanks to cheap prices from Valley Fair. LOL

Shepard ave, I'll hit you up in a minute I"m from the Weequahic Section as well from the Ave between Bergan and Elizabeth. I"m in Reno, NV and I"m trying to get a house thing going for the summer with the casios. So far I have the Eldorado biting. I"m trying to do the Reno/Tahoe thing for Club/house music. Been down to Vegas and was at 54 didn't like the music at all. I'm a 46yr old Club head and proud of it!!! No one mentioned New Experience lol

Pepe hope all is well this is Scott. Be safe all!!!

Yeap, Scotto the New Experience on Branford Place was the grandaddy to Zanzibar which at the time (1977) was called Abe's Disco. I was at New Experience's opening night (January 1977) Some history was made that night since First Choice debut'ed Doctor Love, it was history after that, what a night!!!

Not sure if it was mentioned, but this place is now gone. It was torn down a few weeks back.

They are also tearing down the Westinghouse building across the street.

The face of Newark is changing.

Long remember Zanzibar...

Check out my podcasts and if you like it tell your friends. I have what is called "SHOEBOX CLASSICS" that are tapes I collected from back in the day. Enjoy!!

www.bigmac32661.podomatic.com

Happy New Year All!!

Happy New Year to you and your fam Henrock.

Are you still buying vinyl? or have you strictly converted to CD?

Yo Big Tone!!

Thanks alot. Same to you and yours.

Honestly, I haven't bought vinyl in a good while. However, I mix both CDs and vinyl at parties.

I was 14 teen hanging in the Zanzibar every weekend this was my spot all the time.

Hi everyone...we are working on two projects 1. A book about the history of underground dance music in NJ and 2. a film documentary about the rise of underground dance music in Newark and Essex County (The Oranges, Montclair, Irvington etc.) All the posts are valuable to our project. We would love to speak to you in person or send out a Q&A to accurately document this dance music culture here in NJ esp Essex County. We can be contacted at letsthinksoul@yahoo.com Thank you.

KF

LMAO!!!! I'm not sure how I landed on this site (some Newark Link) but I immediately stopped and saw the Old Holiday Inn. So, it appears the Zanzibar evolved from the Old Hotel.
I was the lifeguard for the pool just on the other side of this structure, which was the dining room at the time (1967).
I was paid $1.50 an hour for 40 hour week. I was also given a "room" that my girlfriend and I at the time would never enter. Taught some kids how to dive and do flips... Certainly not as exciting as the dance club it was to become. Newark was... and hopefully will be great again under Booker.

hello to all that experienced "the legendary club zanzibar" and "club 88"....i once was the club director for both clubs...handling all promotions and entertainment..radio spots etc.....i was also friends with al murphy who along with miles berger(owner of both clubs} was the genius and actual creator of club zanzibar which opened 1979. i have numerous video tapes from both club zanzibar and club 88. i look forward to transferring the s-vhs and vhs tapes to digital format and then making available for the "world" to somewhat experience both cub zanzibar and club 88. sincerely ....d.j. "billie prest" also executive producer and manager for ce ce rogers "someday" circa 1987 : ) .......

ps....thank you to all who supports and recalls one of the greatest clubs of all time.....the legendary club zanzibar! .......bp

That is my playing name as a DJ right now. I used to go to a club n downtown Newark at that time called New Experience. Once Zanzibar opened up that was it for me. I used to borrow money to go to Zanzibar. They had the best sound system in Jersey! I had to be there every Friday and Saturday and some Weds. I used to go home and mix the same music they played in the club. That's how I found out what people were listening to for party music. I used to go there just to hear my favorite song o all times to this day. Release The Tension. I don't care what iwas doing at the time. When that came on it was time to party. I hate at that time i never could get the original version of that song. I remember they came up with a crappy version by another group. It sucked but that's all we could get. I have the original version now. See there still is a site on Club Zanzibar made me start to get a little emotional. Super club of all times. To bad they changed things with the club and motel that it got shut down.

Listen from going to the Paradise Garage there was no was no place in Newark ever to compare to the Zanzzzz that was home I mean never from Tony.Tee,Larry,Timmy & Punch they kept Zanzibar on the map my night was Sunday loved it the whole weekend was cool though man I miss it the sound was crazy one place to get your dance on wiht no problems.Remember that will always be home. Memories WOW. Thanx.

Hi all! I stubled across this site looking for a song that went something like: " We must not question the good Lord. Have faith in God and trust his word. We don't know we don't know when.... Stand by His Word, the Word of God."

When that played at the Zanz or Garage, it just did something to me. If anyone knows who this song is by/title please let me know. I have to add it to my collection and can't find it....

Help!

Hello China the name of the song is STAND ON THE WORD. PEACE.

hey whats up everyone, just happen to run across this site looking for music, an man, didn't think i had all of those wonderful memories built up inside. can't believe i'm here actually droping a few tears reading all the posts. its amazing that a place had such an impact on so many in such a positive way. i also lived in the zanz, it was my life, dont know where i'd b if it never existed. peace and love 2 all us old heads. i can finally accept that status now.

whats up billie prest. i worked for u atthe zanz and at 88. kenny the doorman

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!These memories are too much. I've been to every club mentioned on this site and then some. California DJ, Love is the message, need I say more. My daughter who is 18 is always asking me about House Music because she is in college in Maryland and there seems to be some misconception on campus that House Music started in Baltimore. I distinctly remember going away to college in 1980, in Ohio and actually rooming with someone from B-more who knew nothing about house music and people knowing those Jersey/New Yorkers that listen to that stuff called house since we use to blast it all through the hallways of the dorms while people just stared and didn't understand. Anyway, I started at Doops, El Castile, Shaniques, Buttermilk Bottom (All up and down-town Newark, between Branford Place, Halsey, Broad Street, Central Ave., Main St.) and moved onto Zanz and Bogie's and every in-between. I lived in EO. But, when I read TWIN CITY!!!!!!!!! it almost brought tears to my eyes, running down the street, trying to get that last bus. People hanging on the back of the bus with those heavy skates around their necks. It just don't get better than that. And to think, music can bring such good memories such as those. I love it.

Wow Kelly we ran the same circles. I went to school out at Central State during that same time frame!!!!

I was at Wilberforce, so you know what I'm talking about. They had no clue to what real club/house music was about. Just like now I'm out in Maryland and my DC friends are like, "There was a club in Jersey called Zanzibar"? And, many times I just give them the dumb look, because, again, they haven't got a clue.

WOW I think the last time I saw you Kelly was at Cosmos on a Sunday night!!! lol I use to hang with Dawud!! I know your whole "CREW" from the Force!!! This is Scott from NWK. Hope all is well with you!!!

bigmac32661@yahoo.com

Hi all, Just happen to run across this site while looking for some club music for my 50th birthday party. OMG reading all the theads brought back fond memories of Neet, Sharon & myself dancing all night at Zanibar, Shaniques, Docks etc and leaving just in time to go home to shower and get to work by 7 AM. Thanks for wonderful memories.

attention all interested in "the original club zanzibar" ...keep in touch as i will be posting videos from club zanzibar...this year 2008 ...and as the former club director "i have some good stuff" ....nuff said......billie prest.....p.s. what's up kenny, i remember u well along with the other great seurity detail at club zanzibar. footnote ( never had any major incidents at club zanzibar while under my direction (security head was "big craig")

attention all those interested in "the original club zanzibar" i will be posting "club zanzibar videos " this year keep in touch ...i have plenty-as former club director...colonel abrams ? ...but of course :) ...hello to kenny and all those that kept zanz safe and secure over the years ....(all guns were left outside and peace and harmony prevailing thru the night at "the zanz" while the music thumped and pumped and vibrated broad street 'til sunrise! .... bp

Thought everyone would enjoy this. Is this what we were doing back in the day??? LOL
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE010F1ZS6E

Here's another one. Enjoy all
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbNbNy96fZ8

I can't believe it! This website has made my day ! I'm from Newark, went to Arts High (class of 81) I talk about the great times I've had at all of the above mentioned clubs to friends here in Fl. (moved here in 86') I would fly home every 4 to 6 months just to get my "club on" (there was nothing in Orlando-trust!
(still isn't). We have to give props to Mark Thompson aka "Rico", who held it down at "New Experience" (later-"Sensations"). Also to Gene at "88". These brothers knew how to bring down the house also. I just wanted to throw some love their way

LADYL ARTS class of 79 here!!!!!

Hi Big Mac !

Loving this message board. I have a little piece of home with me. Was home 2 yrs ago. stop by Arts, got a little choked up. Some of my favorite times were in that building. Remember Mr. Rimm (security) with a newspaper under his arm every time you saw him-lol. I remember Mr. Palestina- had a serious crush on him -most of the girls did !

Love,Love,Love your gospel mix #4 !
Genius !


Also LOVE gospel mix #4

Who could forget it!!! He use to pour ammonia in the basement level to keep us out from smokin!!! I went to my renunion, was like 30 peeps there. It was all good had a great time seeing people!!

Scott

Wow,

down here in West Palm Beach; nize to know I'm not the only NJ to Fl transplant. Arts High Class of 77 in the house! Oh yeah, I'm a New Experience freak! Was there on opening night when First Choice's Dr. Love debut...Ladyl where are you in FL? I can't seem to find a club that plays true old school club/disco. Have you had any success?

What's up brickcity59,

I'm in Orlando, Unless you go to certain clubs in Miami...Forget it ! The only time I've ever danced to club music here, is when there's a guest d.j. from N.J. A lot of people that I know from Fl don't like club music. Even the best clubs that I've been to in Miami could NEVER touch Zanz, New Experience or 88. Like me ,you'll have to commute to club-LOL !

Some friends have been trying to get me to have a "Club Nite" here. There are many NJ to Fl people that would support it. I may consider it this year.

Hey brickcity59,

A friend of mine had a show in your city last week. Another home girl- Roz G. Did you catch her show ?

Roz G? I didn't hear about that one, dayum; wish I had. I'm oblivious to happenings in WPB. Miami is knee-deep in salsa(cubans) and techno (whites). The rest of the night scene (blacks) is hip-hop-bling-bling-don-wanna-dance....I heard Orlando had some bumpin' black clubs? I was up there during Christmas week (time share tour, lol). Nope no disco/club down here, Parliament Funkadelic will be here on the 30th I guess I'll gte the funk uncut...lol

Orlando offers the very same. Who ever told you that, must be from Fl or the south period. Get this... you'll hear complaints if club music is played but go-go (watch out!) will bring them to their feet...lol

To All Jersey Club Headz !!!

I've created a YouTube channel dedicated to the love of club music, Zanzibar especially. Chceck it out!!!
http://www.youtube.com/henrock911

Hi DJ Henrock,

I don't know the name of this song but I remember coming home a few times & hearing it at 88. There would be music, then.....Hey boy, I want to thank you (repeat), for what you did for me...you broke my heart...and set me free...now that this is over, gonna celebrate, the thing we used to do, etc...

Please tell me you know what I talking about. There was also a song, with Tramaine Hawkins (gospel artist) mixed in it saying "Sing Hallelujah" it was just music until she came in. Any ideas???

Thanks
Ladyl

Hey Ladyl. Heading to Orlando in a few weeks. Any suggestions? davidjreeves@yahoo.com

if anybody have any tapes of t scott or larry levan please e-mail me rhlloway@yahoo.com

Hey Ladyl,
The song is "Celebrate" by Thibeaux on Ruff City records. I will post it on my Youtube channel.

Ladyl,
Sorry, it wasn't Ruff City, it was Smokin' Records. I'll look into the other song, and check back with ya!

Ladyl,
The song is "In the Morning Time" by Tramaine. A&M Records. Gotta look in the vault for that one!! I know I have the acapella version on CD.

DJ Henrock,

Thank you so much! Now, regarding Tramaine Hawkins, there would be club music playing while she was shouting, "Sing Hallelujah"
but since you mentioned having the acapella version of the song. I'm probably trying to describe just 1 of possibly many club mixes using it.

BrickCity59,

Your best bet for now is Pleasure Island.
Disney's nightime attraction for adults. There's something for everyone out there. BET soundstage is there (don't know if it still is) Mannequin's (various house...classic & techno) there's a raggae club, 8 trax (70's, 80's disco) Or Universal Studios. I don't go there...too many kids. There's also club "Paris". Good luck.

DJ Henrock,

Do you have? "Get Up,(repeat) it's partyime, clap your hands..etc...cause I'm
Dr. Feel good"

I'm laughing while typing, I may not know the title of a song...but I can sho' nuff give some of the lyrics-lol. Please put this on your "You Tube" list. This was the first song/mix I danced to at the Zanz.

Love the list you have stuff I forgot about. ok gotta finish jammin'-see ya!

Ladyl,

You know I got you!! That song is "Feelgood Partytime" by J.R. Funk & the Love Machine. I found the instrumental on YouTube, and put it in my favorites. Keep on jammin'!!!

Pepe-

I found a Larry Levan CD through Amazon: "Journey To Paradise: The Larry Levan Story". It is available via MP3 download or you can buy the CD. You can also buy some on HTFR.com.

Good Luck

Here's a link to mixes by a Newark DJ, Curtis Gilmore. He's Arts High Class 77 definitely from Zanz/Garage era. I've known him since the 4th grade (Maple Ave School)my oldest living acquaintance....
www.djcurtgilmore.podomatic.com

DJ HENROCK...


YOU ARE BAAAAAD !



THANKS AGAIN !

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