New Books Network Disco's Revenge
Oct 28, 2025
Micah Salkind, an author and civic arts administrator, dives into the revolutionary legacy of Frankie Knuckles, the 'Godfather of House.' He discusses how Knuckles transformed the aftermath of Disco Demolition Night into a flourishing house music scene in Chicago. Micah highlights the genre's roots in marginalized communities and recounts Knuckles’ eclectic influences blending disco, gospel, and electronic sounds. He also emphasizes the importance of preserving the queer Black origins of house music and how it became a political space for empowerment.
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Warehouse As Cradle Of House Music
- Frankie Knuckles fused disco, gospel, soul, and electronic drum machines to create a new sound in Chicago.
- That blend at the Warehouse became the cradle of what would be called house music.
Levan's Recommendation Brought Knuckles To Chicago
- At Larry Levan's recommendation, Frankie Knuckles moved from New York to Chicago in 1977 to DJ at the Warehouse.
- Knuckles gave himself five years in Chicago and quickly became central to the emerging house scene.
How 'House' Became A Genre Name
- The name "house" coalesced via the Warehouse, early records like Jesse Saunders' 1984 release, and local signifiers like record-store labeling.
- Chicago's industrial and musical infrastructure shaped house's distinct trajectory.
