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Avalon and El Segundo History

Avalon and El Segundo has been one of the most popular corners for entertainment in Los Angeles for over 40 years. In the 1960’s it started as a small nightclub called Jefty's where legendary R&B/Soul artists like Ike and Tina Turner, WAR, The Whispers, Etta James and more came to grace the stage. In 1977, owner Jeffrey Harris added a second floor to create a banquet hall space that he called the Eve After Dark which became the most noted venue for embracing the rise of West Coast Hip-Hop music.

 

From 1979 to 1986, a young Alonzo “Lonzo” Williams who later rose to fame as the founder of local Hip-Hop group World Class Wrecking Cru, began booking unknown acts like Kurtis Blow and Run DMC, further establishing the Eve After Dark as a venue known for the new genre of Hip-Hop music. Most notably Lonzo's creation of the World Class Wrecking Cru helped to launch the careers of Dr. Dre, Eazy-E and N.W.A--sparking the emergence of the Compton Hip-Hop music scene.


From the early 1990’s to 2002, the venue took a new direction and was renamed Studio East. The club expanded to feature both male and female exotic dancing, adding another element to it's live entertainment offerings.

To learn more about what's happening at the venues today choose your destination below.

 

Meet The Staff

With over 20 years event planning and promoting experience under their belts, Lonzo Williams and Veneta Watkins have reigned as the dynamic duo in nightlife entertainment for 35+ crowd. Their unique perspective has allowed them to forge relationships with an array of Hollywood taste makers as well as pillars of the local community. As they continue to provide an unmatched nightlife experience for patrons of the Avalon & El Segundo entertainment complex; one thing remains the same, "They love to party!" Lonzo and Veneta pride themselves on offering an eclectic mix of great music, great people and great vibes. The perfect atmosphere for the "Grown & Sexy" to unwind.
 If you want a customized experience, done right from the start, with you in mind. This stellar promotional force has the direction, the know-how and the business savvy to take your event from GREAT to GRAND.

Alonzo "Lonzo" Williams

Lonzo Williams is a veteran DJ with over 30 years of music direction and hosting experience. He began at Gardena High school in 1974 and became one of the youngest club owners ever at the age of 22. In 1979 he opened the famed "Eve After Dark" nightclub and later ran several other clubs in the Los Angeles area including: Dooto's, Skateland, The All New Current Affair and the orginal Club Hall of Fame at the Hollywood Park Casino. 
Lonzo is also an original member of Hip-Hop pioneers "The World Class Wrecking Cru". Currently, he spends his time managing The Avalon & El Segundo Entertainment Complex, and gives back to independent artists through speaking engagements and talent showcases, providing extensive music education.

Ms Veneta has been donned the "Queen of Birthday" parties and is managing partner for "Hall of Fame Entertainment" and the "Avalon & El Segundo Entertainment Complex." Prior to partnering with Lonzo at the original "Club Hall of Fame" at Hollywood Park Casino, she hosted events at "The Mirage" in Inglewood, California. Since then she has hosted  thousands of parties over the years and that number continues to grow. So by entrusting her with your special celebration, we guarantee you will be in good hands.

Veneta Watkins

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