Disco Madness

Disco originally started in the 1940s as the word “Discotheque”. In France, Bebop, jitterbug, and other dance genres were banned by the Nazis. People who were in resistance met in underground clubs called “discotheque”, hence the name disco. The music that was played was American swing music. Discotheque became a popular trend in Europe and American press and journalists caught on to it.
From then, Disco gained its popularity in the late 1960’s from LGBT African Americans, Latin Americans, and Italian Americans in gay clubs. It had started in 2 major cities, New York, Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia. Disco was a mixture of dance music and rock music. Several dance moves originated from Disco such as “the bump” or “the hustle”. 
Since gay men couldn’t be comfortable in gay bars or clubs, because of police, underground clubs and parties (discotheques) became their safe haven. “The Loft” was a popular scene. Some popular songs include “Soul Makossa” by Manu Dibango”, “The Love I Lost” by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, and “The Night” by the Four Seasons. Some popular artists include Donna Summer, Marvin Gaye, The Beegee’s, and Gloria Gaynor. 
Disco lost its popularity in the late 1970’s after people had said it was mindless and a waste of music taste. On July 12th, 1979, there was a huge riot at a White Sox’s game where disgruntled rock music fans burned CD’s in the middle of the baseball field, tore out seats, and set fires. This day is known as the “Day Disco Died”. 

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