Event promoter Gideon "Money" Williams started something new for the New Year last week. It's called "Paradise Thursdays. Each week at 618 Live, 618 N. Water St., brings hot temps to a cool winter with Caribbean style drinks and reggae sounds.
Recently, I chatted with Williams about "Paradise Thursdays," Milwaukee nightlife, his vision for a great night out on the town and a few of this town’s greatest DJs.
OnMilwaukee.com: Where did the idea for "Paradise Thursdays" come from?
GW: The idea for Paradise Thursdays came from the minds of Gorilla Promotions and Queens of Paradise Model Team. We take entertainment very serious and we wanted to provide Milwaukee with a new music experience and an eclectic exotic atmosphere. It’s getting cold outside, so we are heating things up with a "Paradise Party." Many of our followers love hip hop and reggae so we decided to fuse the two and showcase beautiful models and entertainers.
OMC: How is the event different from other things in Milwaukee?
GW: This event is different because of its elements. First, it's ladies night where ladies drink free Bacardi all night. And for the boys, we will be serving two for one imports all night. Second, we have 2 amazing international DJs, the Queens of Paradise model team and professional glamour photo shoots in the VIP areas from 9 to 11 p.m. Finally, 618 Live is an upscale atmosphere with an uptown Manhattan feel. It has 2 levels, a large stage, multiple bars and a huge dance floor. Perfect for dancing the night away to your favorite hip hop and reggae tunes.
OMC: Your promotion refers to a luxury vehicle showcase. How do you plan on incorporating luxury cars?
GW: One of our partners is Royalwhips.com and they concentrate on custom car designs and conversions. Once a month we will be bringing in a new luxury custom car to showcase to the party goers; an added touch of royalty and luxury for your evening in Paradise.
OMC: What do you think Milwaukee's nightlife scene is lacking?
G: Milwaukee’s nightlife scene is booming in my eyes. I go to all the new hot spots from down-town to uptown and there is always something to do. I do get frustrated with the discrimination that some clubs place on people of color but the truth is there are plenty places to go that would love to welcome you into their establishment. That’s the kind of feel I want to create in "Paradise Thursdays." I would encourage Milwaukee night lifers to try new places and explore what the city has to offer.
OMC: Are there specific DJs scheduled to play?
G: The event will kick off with DJ L Boogie and DJ Pistol. Other special guest DJs may include DJ technique and Dj Kaos. DJ L Boogie is a Milwaukee native who’s played parties all over America and Puerto Rico. He is a member of the largest DJ association in the county, The CORE DJ's, and is credited for being Milwaukee's only dancing DJ. DJ Pistol, a Jamaican native, is hands down Milwaukee's number one Reggae/Dance hall DJ. He has played countless local reggae events and brings the authentic Jamaican vibe to the party.
OMC: Why did you choose 618 Live on Water as the location?
G: Besides the fact I feel 618 is one of the best designed clubs in Milwaukee, it has a great management team and staff. Unlike most places, they listen to your vision at 618 and work very hard at providing quality entertainment for all people. The location is safe, convenient and parking is easy to find. 618 Live has always been one of my favorite places to promote and party.
OnMilwaukee.com staff writer Maureen Post grew up in Wauwatosa. A lover of international and urban culture, Maureen received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
After living on the east side of Madison for several years, Maureen returned to Milwaukee in 2006.
After a brief stint of travel, Maureen joined OnMilwaukee.com as the city’s oldest intern and has been hooked ever since. Combining her three key infatuations, Milwaukee’s great music, incredible food and inspiring art (and yes, in that order), Maureen’s job just about fits her perfectly.
Residing in Bay View, Maureen vehemently believes the city can become fresh and new with a simple move across town.
