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| Conga Room is closed Conga Room, Los Angeles' premier Latin music club, co-owned by Jimmy Smits, Jennifer Lopez, Sheila E. and Paul Rodriguez, closed following a star-filled bash which included club fans like Eriq La Salle, Cedric the Entertainer and Larenz Tate. The evening featured heartfelt performances by legendary conguero Francisco Aguabella, L.A.'s leading Chicano band, Quetzal, and salsa master Johnny Polanco. The Conga Room's owners plan to re-open the club in 2007 at the LA Live Entertainment Complex being built across from the Staples Center downtown. "We're leaving a legacy that began when Celia Cruz performed opening night in 1998 and culminated with final nights shows by Tito Puente Orchestra, Los Lobos, and tonight's rumba jam, " said Brad Gluckstein, Conga Room's CEO and Managing Partner. The evening epitomized what Conga Room became known for: a place where people from all cultures and walks of life could have a good time. Last night, celebrities, club patrons and reporters who came to cover the event, danced while band members celebrated the closing with an all-star jam of local musicians. "We look forward to bringing the best in Latin music to the city of Los Angeles and continuing our cultural imprint in a bigger venue downtown in 2007, " added Gluckstein. The Conga Room has been the pre-eminent club for live performances since its inception in 1998. Over the years, it built a reputation for booking world-class acts, beginning with salsa legends like Cruz, Tito Puente, Buena Vista Social Club and los Van Van. Its roster grew to include jazz, pop, hip-hop, and Rock en Espanol luminaries, like Shakira, Carlos Santana and Ozomatli. The Conga Room became the venue of choice for Latino politicians' fundraisers and birthday celebrations. Democratic Convention and Latin Grammy parties were also held here. When the Conga Room re-opens at LA Live in 2007, it will feature a private club/restaurant featuring a Cevicheria and gourmet Taco bar concept paired with a 13, 000 sq. ft. 1, 000 person-capacity live entertainment venue/dance club, radio and television partnerships in a Times Square-like atmosphere. Conga Room will continue its mission of bringing world-renowned musicians and their music live to Los Angeles fans. write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Jazz News :: home page |