CHICAGO NIGHTLIFE AWARDS 2015

Chicago is well known for many reasons. With a culture famous for pioneering music innovations such as blues and house music, it is no wonder it has a nightlife that reflects its authentic roots.

That being said, June 2 marked the second annual Chicago Nightlife Awards (CNA). Dialed Productions and Do312 paid tribute to industry professionals with a night of appreciation for their commitment to Chicago’s thriving nightlife. Many establishments, promoters, artists and fellow patrons came out to commemorate efforts to keep the scene evolving and happening.

Upon arrival to Concord Music Hall, I knew without a doubt I was in for a night of nonstop entertainment. Stepping through the doors, I was greeted with many faces that looked slightly frazzled with last minute set-up details. The red carpet gala had a slow start, but as nominees strolled in and shared their award prospects, the pace rapidly picked up. From the CNA’s industry panel judges and award presenters to the industry supporters, action on the carpet injected high octane into event kick-off.

Most notably stealing the carpet’s spotlight, strutting the carpet with his entourage (a.k.a. his band Greesn Denim), was CNA co-host Jesse Camp (MTV). Sporting attire reminiscent of Tommy Lee (circa 1985) with a bit of Bootsy Collins flair, Camp kept the hype of award night escalating with his off the wall chatter of nights

The show started with host Jeremy Scheuch (Do312), armed with a bottle of Jameson, and Camp engaging crowd with their amusing satire. The venues well planned video, lighting and sound were the perfect backdrop for the night’s entertainment.

Best Festival was amongst the first awards to be revealed. Riot Fest trumped Chicago Pride Fest, Lollapalooza, North Coast Music Festival and Spring Awakening. Porn N’ Chicken continued their rein in winning Best Weekly Party second year in row. Other awards included:

Band of the Year: Gemini Club
Best Live Music Venue (700 & under): Lincoln Hall
Best Live Music Venue (over 700): Metro
Best Go Go Dancer: Amourena Tsokatos
Best One Off Party: Red Bull Thre3style
Best Dive Bar: Richard’s Bar
Best Bartender: Mike Finnegan
Best Monthly Party: Shipwrecked Boat Series
Best DJ: Derrick Carter
Blogger of the Year: Fake Shore Drive
Photographer of the Year: Glitter Guts
Manager of the Year: Zack Eastman
Best Bottle Service: Underground
Best New Venue: Headquarters Beercade (River North)
Best Rooftop: Roof on The Wit
Nightclub of the Year: The Mid
Promoter of the Year: React Presents
Barback of the Year: Oscar Becceril
Best Sports Bar: Bull & Bear
Best Doorman: Joe Barker

The night also had live performances by Mic Terror, Glasslux, Hurt Everybody and IDYLL. Spicing up the stage, burlesque dancers Mia Dvine and Claira Bell commanded attention with their provactive and sultry dance moves.

From the award presenters to the award winners, the show was non-stop clowning. Coordinating a gathering of the people that make so many Chicagoans nights entertaining, produced one memorable crazy extravaganza.

Written by: Stephanie Rosheck

Photos: Kristen Mitchell