As a queer Londoner (dare I say lad?), the Ministry of Sound played a major part in both my coming out and finding my authentic self. Not a gay club per se, but Ministry of Sound has humped and thumped for clubbers of all persuasions since its first opening in 1991, when it revolutionized Britain’s house scene. Gay club nights such as Beyond have happened here, and the quality of sound and overall party experience are guaranteed. Yes, Ministry of Sound has evolved into a global brand, but the fact that it hasn’t changed location since 1991 is a testament to a certain integrity. The club consists of four rooms: the Box, the Baby Box, the Loft and the 103, which is the central chamber that connects all six industrial spaces.
Founded by Justin Berkmann, after a life-changing trip to New York, where Justin experienced the raw, community-driven energy of Paradise Garage, the Club is located in increasingly less grotty Elephant & Castle in south London, just behind the university exit of Elephant & Castle tube station.
Now it will mark its 35th birthday with a weekend-long party. Over the weekend of Oct. 2-3, Andy C, Kerri Chandler, Moodymannand Loco Dice will take over the famous club with a series of performances. Louder, MoS’ longest-running club night, will take over Friday night, with drum-and-bass legend Andy C returning to the London venue for the first time in 10 years for an extended three-hour set
The following day, influential label Hard Times will bring together two of house music’s most revered figures, with New York deep-house pioneer Kerri Chandler and Detroit icon Moodymann performing during the daytime event. On the evening of Oct. 3, Urge, the Ministry’s flagship underground house and techno night, will be headlined by Tunisian-German DJ and producer Loco Dice. Additional names for the event series will be announced soon
Speaking on the program, club director Matt Long said, “Few venues get to celebrate 35 years at the heart of dance music. We wanted to mark this milestone with a lineup that reflects both our heritage and where our sound is today. It’s an honor to celebrate this anniversary with such incredible talent, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you all.”
It’s the latest celebration for the London institution’s 35th anniversary. The club recently released a new book, Ministry of Sound: Anthology, which tells the untold story of the London space, and launchedBoxed In, a live-streamed talent competition for emerging DJs. They will return to Ibiza with a one-off party at 528, marking their first event on the island in more than a decade.
| HAPPY 35TH BIRTHDAY FROM ALL OF US ……AND A BIG BIG THANK YOU ….. HERE’S TO THE NEXT 35 YEARS |
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