216 West 44th Street
Located at 216 West 44th Street, Club Alabam’ was a vibrant epicenter of 1920s New York nightlife, capturing the exuberance and decadence of the Jazz Age. Known for its agile brownskin shows, the club thrived during the African trend that swept through the city’s entertainment scene. Amidst this cultural explosion, Club Alabam’ stood shoulder to shoulder with legendary venues like the Cotton Club, the Nest, and Gladys’s Exclusive Club, where the performances were as risqué as they were captivating. Johnny Hudgins, with his dynamic stage presence, was a regular feature, drawing crowds eager for a taste of his unique talent. At the helm as Master of Ceremonies was Bob Brandies, the charismatic “Black Rhapsody,” whose success was evident in the club’s booming reputation. The week of April 28, 1924, was particularly notable, as the Coleman Brothers secured the entire show from Club Alabam’ for a special engagement. This lineup boasted headliners like the soulful Edith Wilson, the spirited Johnny Dunn, and the Club Alabam’ Band, masterfully directed by the legendary Fletcher Henderson. Night after night, the club buzzed with the electrifying energy of jazz and blues, making it a must-visit hotspot for Broadway’s after-theatre crowd. With every performance, Club Alabam’ etched itself deeper into the annals of New York’s storied nightlife, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of the era.