By: Emily Bunn × Vaughn Lowery
360 Magazine was invited to Chicago’s most-exclusive nightclub for an evening of merrymaking, music and memories. The Underground Chicago recently reopened last weekend after a fifteen-month lockdown and is yet again revitalizing Chicago’s VIP social scene. The choice club for A-listers– including celebrities like Justin Bieber, Usher, LaBron James, David Beckham, Will.I.Am, and Miley Cyrus– The Underground consistently delivers elevated experiences surrounding music, cocktails, fashion, art and design. Entrepreneur and owner of The Underground, Billy Dec, comments on the club’s long-awaited re-opening:
“The COVID pandemic has wiped out many live music and nightclub venues across the country,” says Dec. “Historically, nightclubs have had a pivotal role in cultural evolution. The Underground family fought to stay alive and reopen because we see it as a major responsibility—it’s our duty to elevate our community platform so people can come together to celebrate music, fashion, dance, art and design. After an unprecedented and impactful run, we look forward to constantly elevating and innovating our industry and The Underground experience fueled with excitement, creativity, service and positive energy.”
The vibrant ambiance of The Underground reflected the colorful diversity of guests inside, all of which were busy unleashing their signature moves on the packed dance floor. The discotheque throbbed with ecstatic energy and heavy bass lines all night long. A state-of-the-art sound system blared trendy music across all corners of the club for all to hear. The ambiance of the tunes was complimented by thrilling pyrotechnics and digital screens that projected artsy flicks.
Upon arriving at the legendary establishment, 360 Magazine was greeted with service from hospitable, welcoming staff members– including security and a stylish porter. On the particular night we visited, Lil Jon made a star appearance. Lil Jon, the musical mastermind behind releases such as Turn Down for What, Get Low, Cyclone, and Alive (with Offset and 2 Chainz), filled the club with energy and exuberance. Soundscapes swelled across every crowded corner of the club as the rapper delivered an incredible performance.
Lil Jon wasn’t the only celebrity guest, as he performed alongside Emmy award-winning TV host, actor and personality, Billy Dec. Dec also is the restaurateur and owner of the iconic nightclub but is best known for his roles in “Chicagoland,” “Mollywood,” “One Small Hitch,” and “Adventures in the Sin Bin,” among others. Dec has also appearance on many national broadcast programs, including NBC’s Today Show and NBC Today in Nashville.
Looking ahead, Dec is set to open The Underground’s sister venue, The Underground Cocktail Club. Scheduled to open over Lollapalooza weekend (July 30-Aug 1), this new establishment will feature a separate entrance to The Underground’s building and emphasize the nostalgic, vintage appeal of the 1920’s. The Underground Cocktail Club will focus on creating innovative cocktails and featuring more live performances. Next time 360 Magazine comes to Chicago, we can’t wait to have another memorable, lively night at the Underground.
