Dancing through the Night: The History of Asheville’s Disco Scene

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is a city that boasts both natural beauty and cultural diversity. With a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, the city has long been a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives of all kinds. In the 1970s, this culture of creativity manifested in the form of disco – a musical phenomenon that swept the nation and transformed the way Americans thought about dancing and nightlife.

Asheville’s disco scene was no exception. Throughout the late ’70s and early ’80s, the city was home to a vibrant and thriving dance culture, centered around glittering nightclub venues, thumping basslines, and colorful costumes. As the popularity of disco spread throughout the country, so too did the influence of the genre in Asheville. Today, the city remains a hotspot for music lovers and nightlife enthusiasts, with a legacy of disco that still lives on in its many clubs, bars, and dance halls.

Of course, disco wasn’t always met with open arms in Asheville. As in other parts of the United States, the genre faced its fair share of backlash and controversy. Some saw disco as a symbol of excess, decadence, and superficiality – criticisms that were often leveled at the entire era of the 1970s. Others simply found the music and dance culture to be too foreign, too new, or too different from the traditions they were used to.

Despite these challenges, however, disco persevered in Asheville. In many ways, it became a symbol of the city’s forward-thinking, avant-garde spirit, and its willingness to embrace cultural change and evolution. Today, Asheville remains a beacon of diversity, creativity, and acceptance, with a disco scene that continues to attract locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re a longtime disco fan or simply curious about the history of music and dance, Asheville’s disco scene is a fascinating and exciting topic to explore. From its early roots in the ’70s to its vibrant present-day culture, the story of Asheville’s disco scene is a testament to the power of music to connect people, break down barriers, and create new and exciting possibilities. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a partner, and get ready to groove – because in Asheville, the beat never stops.

Disco in Asheville

The Nightlife in Asheville

Asheville, located in the western part of North Carolina, has built a reputation as a vibrant city with a unique culture and rich history. Together with that comes an active nightlife scene for locals and tourists alike. Known for its music, arts, and food culture, Asheville also boasts a thriving disco scene.

History of Disco in Asheville

Disco has been a part of Asheville’s nightlife culture for decades. Many iconic venues have come and gone, leaving an indelible mark on the city. One of the most famous bars that used to play Disco music is Downtown Asheville’s the Orange Peel. The Orange Peel was first opened in 1970 and was known for its discotheque dance floor. The floor was built on springs, allowing dancers to feel the bass as they grooved to the beat.

Famous Clubs and Bars

One of the most famous clubs in Asheville is Scandals Nightclub. Located in the heart of downtown, Scandals has been drawing crowds for nearly thirty years. The club features two floors and multiple bars, with a DJ booth on the main floor. The atmosphere is electric with music ranging from classic disco to modern pop. A must-visit spot for visitors and locals alike.

Another popular destination is the Boiler Room. Located below the Grove House Entertainment Complex, the Boiler Room is a subterranean nightclub specializing in EDM and disco. The dance floor is surrounded by padded walls, creating a unique sensory experience for the patrons.

For those looking for a unique experience, the Sly Grog Lounge is a quirky spot in the River Arts District of Asheville. It is said to be one of the city’s last dive bars, offering a low-key atmosphere and cheap drinks. The décor is eclectic, with classic arcade games and funky light fixtures.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an incredible nightlife experience that features disco music, Asheville should be on your bucket list. From Scandals to the Boiler Room, there are plenty of options to explore in this vibrant city. Don’t forget to hit up the Sly Grog Lounge to experience a unique take on Asheville’s nightlife scene.In conclusion, disco is making a comeback in Asheville and it’s here to stay. With the city’s vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, it’s no surprise that locals and visitors alike are flocking to the dance floors to boogie down to the beat. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic disco ball and funky tunes or a modern twist on the genre, there’s a venue in Asheville that caters to your needs. From the intimate settings of local bars to the larger-than-life clubs and dance halls, Asheville has everything a disco lover needs to get their groove on. So don your favorite dancing shoes, hit the town and shake your groove thing–because in Asheville, disco never truly died.