A benefit to to remember the life and AIDS/HIV activism of The Godfather of Disco, Mel Cheren, and to raise funds and awareness for HIV/AIDS prevention.
With a career spanning almost 5 decades, MEL CHEREN'S many accomplishments over the years have clearly proven him to be one of the most important and passionate figures in Dance Music history. He demonstrated the same commitment and dedication to his AIDS charity work from the early days of the crisis. His countless contributions to the fight against AIDS has become as legendary as his music indus
try landmarks and his iconic status within the evolution of New York City nightlife. Mel was the CEO and founder of WEST END RECORDS, financial backer of the legendary Paradise Garage, founder and president of 24 HOURS FOR LIFE, and was owner of the Colonial House which Mel donated space to for GMHC to use in it's first year, 1982. In 2001, Mel was inducted into the DANCE MUSIC HALL OF FAME with their Lifetime Achievement Award. The music pioneer and Aids Activist died December 7, 2007
Our event is named after Mel Cheren's autobiography "KEEP ON DANCIN’ MY LIFE AND THE PARADISE GARAGE." which was made into the documentary, "THE GODFATHER OF DISCO". In the spirit of his charitable philosophy, Cheren's share of the proceeds from his book were donated to his non-for-profit organization, 24 Hours for Life. DJs who have played KEEP ON DANCIN' parties in New York City and Miami include: David Morales, Tony Humphries ,Hex Hector, Danny Krivit, Joey Llanos, David DePino,Quentin Harris Jellynean Benitez, Billy Caroll, Kenny Carpenter, Richard Vasquez, Bryan Raughton, Eric Kipper, Erv, Gomi, John Matteo, Randy Bettis, Reed McGowan, , R and many more. Live performers have included Taana Gardner, Barbara Tucker, Joi Cardwell, Byron Stingily, Charice, Jason Walker and others.
