Is it possible for a single establishment to embody the heart and soul of a city's nightlife for over four decades? In Memphis, Tennessee, the answer is a resounding yes, and that establishment is Paula & Raiford's Disco, a place where the music never stops and the legacy of family and community thrives.
The story begins in 1976, when Robert Raiford, a name that would become synonymous with Memphis nightlife, opened the doors of his nightclub at 115 Vance. This was the genesis of what would become a Memphis institution. Raiford's vision was simple: create a space where people could come together, let loose, and celebrate life through music and dance. From its inception, the club offered a safe and welcoming environment, a space where everyone was invited to enjoy the rhythm. This was an era that saw the birth of disco, a genre that brought people together.
The baton was passed to his daughter, Paula Raiford, who, in 2009, with her father, resurrected the spirit of the original disco. Today, Paula & Raiford's Disco, located at 14 South Second Street in Memphis, is still the place where the people of Memphis dance the night away.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paula Raiford |
| Known For | Owner of Paula & Raiford's Disco |
| Birthplace | Memphis, Tennessee |
| Career | Nightclub Owner, DJ |
| Family | Daughter of Robert "Hollywood" Raiford, Keshia (Daughter), Brother (Limo Driver) |
| Business | Paula & Raiford's Disco |
| Location | 14 South Second Street, Memphis, TN |
| Opening Date of Current Disco | 2009 |
| Original Club Location | 115 Vance |
| Reference Website | Memphis Flyer |
The atmosphere at Paula & Raiford's is a testament to its enduring appeal. Its a place where generations of Memphians have come to celebrate, offering a warm embrace to all who enter. The staff, many of whom are family members, contribute to the sense of belonging. Keshia, Paulas daughter, works the bar, ensuring that the family ethos of hospitality is upheld, while Paulas brother serves as a limo driver. This dedication is evident in the club's motto, "Its 90 percent family," as Paula herself has stated.
Stepping into Paula & Raiford's Disco is like entering a time capsule. The iconic disco ball, fog machines, and leather couches evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding visitors of the classic clubs of the 1980s. This attention to the classic elements helps retain the legacy of Robert Raiford, offering a retro and unforgettable experience.
What Robert Raiford created, and what Paula continues to nurture, is more than just a nightclub; it's a community. It's a place where people from all walks of life are welcomed, a haven where differences fade away on the dance floor, and where everyone is family. It's a place where music of the 70s, 80s, and 90s is played.
The music, of course, is central to the experience. The owner, Paula Raiford, expertly spins the tunes, creating a soundtrack that keeps the energy high and the dance floor packed. The club's signature features, lights and fog, bring an element of magic. The legendary "Hollywood Raiford" is also featured.
Paula & Raiford's Disco is more than just a place to dance; it's a venue for celebration. It is a space where milestones are marked and memories are made. Birthdays with a "0" in them are a tradition, as are celebrations for friends from out of town. The biggest occasions are celebrated here.
Paula Raiford keeps the soul of Memphis beating. Raiford's Disco has won awards and has been in many articles. It is a Memphis classic. It's a place where the dance floor is an even playing field.
The legacy of Robert Raiford is honored every week at Paula & Raiford's. The disco is open every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 p.m. You can contact them at 901.521.2494. The annual celebration of the late Robert Raiford takes place every year, remembering the original "old school cool."
For those seeking a truly authentic Memphis experience, Paula & Raiford's Disco is a must-visit. As you enter the doors, you become part of a family, a testament to the enduring power of music, dance, and the spirit of community. Disco isn't dead, as the many patrons would tell you.
