"From Ideation to Creation: The Journey of LightClub with Scotty Bollinger"

By Kayla Bowie

Memphis, Tenn. -- In the heart of Downtown Memphis, a beacon of hope and resilience shines bright amidst the shadows of tragedy. Meet Scotty Bollinger, affectionately known as DJ Scotty B, the visionary behind LightClub, a unique Experimental Dance Venue born out of personal anguish and a fervent desire for change.

One evening on November 11, 2023, Scotty B bared his soul as he recounted the harrowing tale of LightClub's genesis. It all began with a young man searching for connection in a world that felt increasingly isolating. Scotty stumbled upon the transformative power of rave culture at the tender age of 20, igniting a passion that would shape his destiny.

Driven by his newfound love for music and community, Scotty immersed himself in the art of DJing, eventually becoming a prominent figure in Memphis's underground music scene. However, tragedy struck with devastating force when Scotty's best friend succumbed to a fatal overdose on the dance floor during one of his sets, shattering his world and leaving an indelible scar on his soul.

It was this gut-wrenching loss that fueled Scotty's unwavering resolve to create LightClub, a sanctuary where music and lights intertwine to offer solace and healing to all who enter. Determined to break the cycle of substance abuse that had claimed the lives of his loved ones, Scotty instituted strict rules prohibiting drugs from tainting the sacred space he had envisioned.

With a small but dedicated team by his side, Scotty embarked on a mission to turn his vision into reality. Yet, tragedy struck again when another dear friend fell victim to addiction, propelling Scotty into a profound spiritual awakening that reaffirmed LightClub's significance in a world plagued by darkness.

Despite facing countless obstacles, Scotty remains unwavering in his commitment to LightClub's mission. With plans to transition it into a non-profit organization, Scotty and his team are poised to breathe new life into the venue, even amidst the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

As LightClub takes a temporary hiatus, Scotty's unwavering spirit and boundless determination serve as a beacon of hope, illuminating a path towards healing and renewal for all who dare to dance in the light.