Chicago's Nightlife Impresario Joe Russo

Nightlife Impresario Joe Russo by Toyin Alaka
Interview Conducted July 2010
by Toyin Alaka

Back on the scene after a brief absence Joe Russo is once again carving his own unique niche into Chicago's nightlife landscape. His latest venture, The Shine Chicago nightclub, located in the south loop, is an ambitious, theme focused outing that mixes his traveling experiences and loves of Afrobeat and live music.

His pervious venues include Funky Buddha Lounge, Thyme Restaurant and the dearly missed Sinibar, with its priceless vibe and beautiful energy made it a favorite to Chicagoans.

The Shrine recently celebrated its one-year anniversary and UnRated Urban Magazine took a minute to chat with Russo and find out what makes him the "King" of Chicago's nightlife and his innate ability to create spaces people gravitate to.

Toyin Alaka: Hi Joe, tell me a little about yourself. Where you were born & raised?

Joe Russo: I was born on the North Shore in a suburb called Riverwoods and moved to the city when I turned 18.

Toyin: How did you get into the nightlife business?

-Read the full story at UnRatedMagazine.com