Atlanta’s iconic dance club for the people – MJQ – is about to have its 3rd rebirth but will remain underground, literally and figuratively. The club originated under the Ponce de Leon Hotel in 1994 before relocating to a space under a parking lot at 736 Ponce.
Next week marks MJQ’s last days on Ponce. On Jan. 29, the club moves deeper under our city and opens in Underground Atlanta in the space once occupied by Dante’s Down the Hatch.
The club is known for its inclusive atmosphere, eclectic music, and lack of pretension. When co-owners Ryan Purcell and Ryan Murphy recently joined “City Lights” managing producer Kim Drobes to discuss the move, they emphasized that while the location is changing, the essence of MJQ will remain the same.
“It’s not the place, it’s the people and the vibe,” Murphy said. “We’ve always been about the music, the energy and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.”
The new space pays homage to Dante’s quirky design while reimagining it for a new generation. The venue features a two-level main dance floor, a mezzanine and multiple rooms offering different music experiences.
