History
The El Mocambo was opened as a music venue in 1850. The building was first used as a haven for escaped slaves. The name and famous El Mocambo palm tree sign were constructed in 1946. It was one of the first establishments in Toronto to obtain a liquor licence. Musical acts appeared on separate stages located on the main and second floor of the building.
The business and building were bought by Michael Baird and Tom Kristinbrun who also owned the Jarvis House in 1971. The previous owner, Mr. Schuy, rented the top floor space to any group. The German Club was a regular tenant. The El Mo brought bands like Downchild Blues Band and many others "up the street" and paid them a regular fee to perform. The bands would start out downstairs and if the revenue they generated increased, they would sometimes graduate on upstairs.
During the early 1970s, the upstairs featured "retreads" and "has-been" acts mostly with the occasional group on the rise. Most of the time drink sales determined which bands would return.
Located within walking distance of the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, and George Brown College the venue became a popular place for students living nearby. Throughout the 1970s the club was known as a bastion of the blues and rock and roll during a time better known for disco.
In 2001, the El Mocambo was bought by Abbas Jahangiri who renovated both floors and now books a wide range of musical acts. He opened up the venue to all genres of music from rock and roll and orchestra to heavy metal, reggae, hip hop and jazz. As a consequence, the club's status as an important Toronto musical hotspot has been restored. Since Abbas Jahangiri has become a Missionary, the venue has become the #1 booker for charity events, fundraisers have been held for War Child, Amnesty International, Free the Children, World Vision, Blank-Fest and many more. Mr. Jahangiri is also founder of the non-profit charitable organization, Serving Charity and many other companies. The revenue, administration and operations of the El Mocambo fully support Serving Charity’s initiatives.
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