I had dropped out of the design business to paint full time for about 8 years. I received a prestigious grant, for which I was to paint for a year. I bought a Mac instead, spent 8 months relearning my craft and went back to the biz.
One day a buddy calls, says "I'm opening a nightclub." Two years of brainstorming, studying design magazines of the era, living the lounge life and 50 names later we decided to borrow a great one.
The Five Spot opened about the same week the Gap Khaki Swing ad hit the air. Overnight our theme went from Lounge to Swing. A choreographer from the movie "Swingers" moved to town. Big bands sprouted overnight.
It was a blast being a part of it all, playing music there, seeing some great acts and hanging with them until all hours.
Black Lily was born there. The Roots found their audience. Jill Scott reigned. Hip hop replaced Swing.
10 years later it burned to the ground. Now it's a parking lot.
I still think it's the best logo I've ever done.
