Paying homage to the ‘Shadow Lounge Era’

JUSTIN STRONG FOUNDED THE SHADOW LOUNGE IN EAST LIBERTY BACK IN 2000. TODAY’S GENERATION GAVE HIM HIS FLOWERS DURING AN EVENT IN FEBRUARY HONORING THE “SHADOW LOUNGE ERA.” Today’s generation appreciates Justin Strong, legacy that Shadow Lounge created & Friday night, Feb. 23, 2024, was the date. The Blumcraft Building on Melwood Avenue in Oakland was the location. Inside, there were performances. Art being created. Dancing. Overall, a good time. Just like the old Shadow Lounge. About 150 people came out to pay tribute to the “Shadow Lounge Era,” proof that, even 11 years after its closing, no one who experienced the Shadow Lounge in East Liberty from 2000-2013 will ever forget it. The event was sponsored by Pop Channy Productions as part of its Black History Month Black Art Expo Pop Up. “The vibe was very chill, very laid back, very creative, spontaneous,” said Chief Ikhana of the old Shadow Lounge, who was a constant at the Shadow Lounge, 5972 Baum Boulevard, taking photos and videos. “Creative dancing, creative DJing, creative poets. I had my 30th birthday party at the Shadow Lounge. It was an amazing space…when I ride past there, it’s always going to be the Shadow Lounge.”...