Aviva Press

By Maria Esteves - December 16, 2007

Mel Cheren (January 21, 1933 - December 7, 2007), was a painter, founder of 24 Hours For Life, fiscal sponsor for LIFEbeat, CEO & Founding Partner of West End Records, and financial backer of the Paradise Garage dance venue. The documentary film of THE GODFATHER OF DISCO, directed by Gene Graham, based on Mel's autobiography "My Life and the Paradise Garage: Keep On Dancin" is the greatest historical gift from back in the day.

In the 1980's, Mel offered his home (Colonial Inn) to the Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) as their first office for services to be provided for people with HIV/AIDS. Today, GMHC located at 119 West 24 Street, New York, is the oldest AIDS service organization in the United States.

I will always treasure the words of Uncle Mel during an interview in March 2006, when he said, "Music is the Message, and Love is the Answer." The legendary Mel Cheren contribution to society was his legacy and a gift to humanity.

Mel Cheren at Together in Paradise benefit for GMHC, held at Pacha, New York, Sunday, January 21, 2007.