Mel Cheren's autobiography, My Life and the Paradise Garage, is a compelling read. Not only does Mel give you an insight into the people that shaped one of the most influential clubs of all time but he also manages to take you through the ground-breaking changes that were happening to American society in the seventies and eighties. This book also stands as a testament to all the people that Mel partied with in this time that are no longer with us. However, the Paradise Garage is more of a footnote to this book. We hear how Mel helped finance it and so on, but it seems like Mel didn't actually party there that much; preferring the Saint with his Fire Island buddies. This book is great as an autobiography but if you're looking for any real insight into the Paradise Garage forget it.

I thought this book was great. I live in Boston and have spent a considerable time going back and forth to New York over the years. I think I spent most weekends there in the mid-80's. Anyway, I moved in a different crowd form Mel's Boston crew, but I knew some of them casually. His appendix held a few surprises for me as to what happened to some of them.

The book is a great gay history of that period in New York. It brought back many memories of both happy and sad times. Earlier sections were before my "era", so I found them very interesting. I felt like I knew many of the people Mel talks about and remember watching and listening as the club music scene grew. There are many interesting stories about this phase of the music industry.

My only reservation: Mel did do some great things, but Mel knows it. So we know it. A lot. Just a tad too much back-patting. Otherwise a great read about New York Gay life and the rise of club music.

"Keep On Dancin'/My Life and The Paradise Garage" is a phenomenal book and a compelling read. Mel Cheren's story of his life in the music industry and his association with the historic Paradise Garage provides insight so strong you can virtually see the people he speaks of and envision the events as they transpire. Mel's life is filled with complexities, joy, ups and downs and his motto "Nothing by accident" is both true and a warning. Everything that happens to us in our lives happens for a reason. This book will stir the emotions and flip guts, yet you'll laugh, cry, and appreciate this man's wit and candor. As a avid Garage patron who fondly remembers those special days, I enjoyed this immensely. Thanks Mel!