Trade: Remembering the London Club That Redefined Gay Nightlife

For a generation of clubbers, the name "Trade" conjures a specific kind of magic. It wasn't just a club; it was a cultural phenomenon, a haven, and a crucible of self-expression. Every gay club since has, in some way, been influenced by the trailblazing spirit of Trade. But what exactly made this London institution so unforgettable, and why does its legacy continue to resonate today?

More Than Just a Late-Night Party

Trade wasn't your average Saturday night affair. It was born in November 1995 at Turnmills in London, the brainchild of Laurence Malice, who wanted to "throw a good party where all my friends could come along and express themselves." Trade filled a crucial gap, offering a sanctuary for those who wanted the party to continue long after other clubs had closed their doors. Open on Sunday mornings after other clubs had closed, it was a meeting point for those not ready to go home. Think of it as the after-after-party, but with a distinctively subversive edge.

A Haven for Self-Expression

What truly set Trade apart was its fiercely inclusive atmosphere. Forget velvet ropes and arbitrary dress codes. Trade welcomed everyone – blokes, bears, lesbians, transsexuals, "not-sure-yets," and even their straight mates – as long as they brought the right attitude. In the words of its founders, it catered to the LGBT community, but what made it special was the merging of scenes and the openness to all.

Can you imagine bankers dancing alongside pop stars, muscle boys next to stage actors? This melting pot of personalities created a unique sense of freedom, allowing individuals to express themselves through art, music, and fashion without fear of judgment. Under the strobe lights and pulsating beats, inhibitions melted away, and a community was forged.

The Malice Touch: Camp, Flamboyant, and Outrageous

The influence of Laurence Malice cannot be overstated. His vision for Trade was unapologetically camp, flamboyant, and outrageous, laced with a sardonic, sexualized humor. He wasn't afraid to push boundaries and challenge norms. This rebellious spirit permeated every aspect of the club, from the music to the visuals to the overall atmosphere.

Malice’s antics were legendary. Take, for example, the time he protested French nuclear testing by dropping his trousers on stage at Trade in Le Palace, Paris. A move that saw him swiftly uninvited from the venue by David Guetta. It was this kind of fearless irreverence that defined the Trade experience.

A Magnet for Celebrities (and a Few Rejections)

Trade's reputation soon attracted a glittering array of celebrity guests. Madonna, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Bjork were all rumored to have graced its dance floor. Even Posh and Becks reportedly popped in for a night of uninhibited fun. There are even rumours of Grace Jones attending, although whether she went once is hotly debated.

But not everyone got the Trade treatment. Legend has it that Cher was famously turned away because her entourage and demands for a VIP area couldn't be accommodated. Axl Rose, fresh off making homophobic comments, also received a less-than-warm welcome. These stories highlight Trade's commitment to its core values: everyone was equal on the dance floor, regardless of their fame or fortune.

More Than Just a Party: A Cultural Force

Trade's impact extended far beyond the club walls. It became a catalyst for cultural change, helping to break down barriers and promote acceptance. It earned respect from the mainstream dance music industry that other British gay events had struggled to achieve. By creating a safe and inclusive space for self-expression, Trade empowered a generation to embrace their identities and challenge societal norms.

• Challenging Exclusivity: The non-judgemental door policy welcomed anyone with the right attitude, regardless of social background
• Music Freedom: The music policy was less about chart hits and more about creating a sonic landscape that encouraged letting go.
• A Safe Space: Trade was a place where you could explore your identity without fear of judgement.

The Legacy Lives On

Trade inevitably fell victim to its own success. As other venues adopted its late-night model, the club began to re-imagine itself, staging special events and birthday parties that became annual reunions. Turnmills, the club’s home, would eventually be closed due to gentrification. Yet, despite its physical closure, Trade's spirit lives on.

So, what's the key takeaway? Trade wasn't just a club; it was a movement. It was a place where people could be themselves, connect with others, and celebrate life in all its messy, beautiful glory. Trade defined an era and ruled unrelentingly, and nothing can ever take its crown away. It was an experience that's unlikely to be repeated, a golden age of clubbing that continues to inspire and influence nightlife culture today.