UNDAground foreva bABY!!   Having worked at The Guvernment from 98-2008 .I had the privilege to hear my friend Mark Oliver , the best local DJ's, and almost every big name DJ during that era. The biggest,  most important , influential , and well know club in N.American history It became an institution as it lasted longer than all the others of its kind .
My new DJ mix series Called Re-Spin Saturdaze  @ The Guv
returns you  to the best nights of your life...GUV club history
25 web pages
The Guvernment Nightclub, often referred to simply as "The Guv," was a legendary club in Toronto, Canada, with a rich history in the city's nightlife:

Origins and Evolution: The site was first converted into a nightclub in 1984 as Fresh Restaurant and Nightclub by Tony and Albert Assoon, who had previously run the influential Twilight Zone. It didn't do well and was sold by late 1985, becoming RPM under Murray Ball's ownership. RPM was known for its diverse music programming and its rock 'n' roll edge. In 1995, Charles Khabouth bought the building, rebranding it as The Guvernment in 1996 after extensive renovations. The adjacent Warehouse was renamed Kool Haus in 2001.

Cultural Impact: The Guv was more than just a nightclub; it was a cultural landmark in Toronto's club scene. It was known for its high-end sound system, designed by Steve Dash, and its vast size, accommodating thousands of partygoers. It played a significant role in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, hosting numerous international DJs like Deadmau5, Tiesto, and Armin Van Buuren, among others. The club was also famous for its resident DJ Mark Oliver's marathon sets.


Venue Details: The complex was extensive, featuring several smaller rooms besides the main ones, including The Drink, D'Luxe Lounge, The Orange Room, SkyBar, and Acid Lounge, each offering a unique atmosphere.

Closure: The Guvernment closed its doors on January 25, 2015, after nearly two decades of operation. The closure was due to the sale of the property to developers for condo construction, reflecting the broader trend of Toronto's waterfront transformation. The final night was headlined by Deadmau5, closing with Mark Oliver and Charles Khabouth playing the last track.


Legacy: The Guv left an indelible mark on Toronto's nightlife, remembered for its contribution to the local and international dance music scene. Its closure was mourned by many, symbolizing the end of an era for club culture in the city. However, its legacy lives on through the memories of those who experienced its vibrant nights and through events like "Spin Saturdays" which celebrate its history.



The Guvernment's history is intertwined with the evolution of Toronto's entertainment district, from a time when the area was more industrial to the urbanization and development that followed. Its story is one of cultural significance, capturing a moment when clubbing was not just about music but about community and the celebration of nightlife.

Re - SPIN SATURDAYS FROM GUV- BACK 2 THE BEST TIME OF YOUR LIFE

My mix "Toronto Sakura" is availabe from Kompakt Records, part of their 20th anniversary for the Pop Ambient compilations. I am the resident DJ at Stratus Vineyards in Niagara On The Lake, Dragan Brewing in St.Catharines and Bar Bea in Niagara. If you're visiting Niagara Falls, look me up - there are tons of great events going on all the time. Cheers!

HAVING SPENT MOST Of MY TIME working & THE GUVERNMENT in Toronto CANADA. (NORTH AMERICAS BIGGEST NIGHTCLUB IN THE GOLDEN YEARS OF EDM 1998-2008) I was lucky enough to see & work with every known DJ you can think of including Tiesto, SeamAn ,DeEp Dish, Armin,  an soooo many more. Along with our LEGENDARY RESIDENTS mARK oLIVER, mANZONE & Strong (and having managed a Sunrise records)as some of my biggest influences I play every kind of Genre and call it G.J. EDM or Genre Jumpin . PLEASE CHECK OUT MY Hierarchy Of House Classic House/Progressive/EDM series which ended up being the soundtrack of my time in the Incredible Toronto  Music/Club/Party Scene from 1995-2010. This slice of modern electronic dance music, the simply Balearic, Bass,  synth and piano driven hooks gently build and tease with cinematic intent, the light percussion and organic beats take you on an audio journey- contact me for more...

Re - SPIN SATURDAYS FROM GUV- BACK 2 THE BEST TIME OF YOUR LIFE

PATRICK from GUV O'DAY ™