Descendants of islands in the West Indies such as Jamaica have a visible presence in Hartford, the capital of Connecticut. They are active in the local community and and hold an annual parade. Residents of all backgrounds can enjoy the world-renowned sounds of reggae, soca, calypso, dancehall and reggaeton in West Indian clubs that feature DJs and musicians from the Caribbean. Some West Indian DJs and musicians such as Busy Signal, Chuck Fender and Black Hustler got their start in Hartford clubs.
The West Indian Social Club is a historically significant community center for the Caribbean immigrants in Hartford. During the 1950s it provided entertainment for immigrants who felt they were not welcome in Hartford venues. The club has a slate of officers and holds many political and social events in the community. It also hosts concerts of popular artists from West Indian countries as well as weekly dance parties.
The West Indian Social Club of Hartford Inc.
3340 Main Street
Hartford, CT 06120
860-247-5659
westindiansocialclubinc.org
Windsor's Lounge is located just outside of Hartford near the area's airport in Windsor Locks. The upscale club hosts DJ nights and popular West Indian artists. The club has a restaurant, bottle service and a VIP room. It is able to stay open later than other area clubs because of its location in Windsor Locks just outside of the Hartford city limits. DJs spin until 6 a.m.
Windsor's Lounge
383 South Center Street
Windsor Locks, CT 06096
windsorslounge.com
Passion Night Club in Hartford hosts reggaeton musicians and other artists from the Caribbean. The club also features DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. In 2010, the club hosted a celebration for Jamaican music pioneers, Merritone Music.
Passion Night Club
145 Newfield Ave.
Hartford, CT 06016
860-209-9192
nightclubpassion.com
On Thursday nights, the neighborhood bar Sully's Pub has Reggae Thursdays. Sully's also hosts live music of reggae and ska acts. Happy Hour lasts until 7 p.m. and patrons can order food at the adjacent restaurant, Lena's First and Last Pizzeria.
Sully's Pub
2071 Park Street
Hartford, CT 06106
860-231-8881
sullyspub.com
On Thursday night at downtown club Vibz Uptown, Hartford residents can enjoy "Reggae Thursdays." A live band plays dance music with guest performers. The club opens at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m.
Vibz Uptown
3155 Main Street
Hartford, CT 06120
860-246-7390
vibzuptown.com
The Sportsmen's Athletic Club hosts frequent West Indian shows of dancehall artists from Jamaican and Great Britain. The club does not have a website but shows are listed on the sites of radio stations BigUpRadio and BusyRadio.
Sportsmen's Athletic Club
2976 Main St.
Hartford, CT 06120
860-525-6281
