James Del Femine
Lightman for Philadelphia Clubs (September 29, 1944 - August 11, 1989)
James Del Femine was the premier lighting engineer in Philadelphia in the '70s-'80s. He worked at "the" club in Philadelphia, The Second Story, from '76-'86. He also worked at Equs, Raffles (manager), Catacombs, and many other top clubs in the Phila/NJ area. Jimmy won a regional BILLBOARD award in '78 and the Pocono Record Pool Strobe award from '77 - '79. He and his brother, Robert (Del), even formed a "family" DJ/lightman duo on several occasions.
Jimmy Del Femine invented the lighting technique know as the "flashcube" where 50+ light bulbs would "explode" with a flash and the room would go "white" then dark right as the peak break of a song hit. DJ Frankie Goodman commented, "Everyone would explode into screams and it gave the entire club an incredible rush. He never once missed it. His timing was always right on the money."
The Second Story was known for its amazing sound and lights - Jimmy Del designed many of lighting elements. He did the lighting "show" with two controllers, manual switching, and a foot pedal... there was never a pin beam or gel out of place... and how he controlled the giant mirror ball... was an art.
DJ Frankie Who (Sesito) worked with Jimmy for 12 years, he commented, "Jimmy was the light person everyone wanted to be and every DJ wanted Jimmy to be there as their light person." Jimmy Del is sorely missed by all.
Photos below kindly submitted by Robert DelFemine who is Jimmy DelFemine's brother.
DJ Frankie "Who" Sestito and Lightman Jimmy Del Femine at Someplace Else 1978
Jimmy Del Femine, unknown, DJ/Sound System Designer - Eddie Gifford, and front door manager - Maureen Collazuol at The Second Story 1979
Jimmy Del Femine and Maureen Collazuol at The Second Story 1979
Lightman Jimmy Del Femine in the booth at The Second Story 1978
A view of the dance floor and incredible lighting at The Second Story 1979
An infamous "White Party" at The Second Story 1978
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