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**Walter Gibbons** Born: April 2, 1954 Died: September 23, 1994 Walter Gibbons was a prominent figure in the early disco scene, known for his innovative DJing and mixing techniques. A native of Queens, New York, he became immersed in the emerging gay nightlife by the age of 18. In 1972, he served as the house DJ at the Galaxy21 club, located near the Chelsea Hotel. The venue was a vibrant mix of diverse communities, where Gibbons created captivating musical experiences with his unique percussive blends. Gibbons was renowned for his pioneering skills in mixing, pre-dating hip-hop's cut-and-paste techniques. He would skillfully manipulate drum breaks from two copies of a record, creating an entirely new sound. Notable tracks he frequently used in his mixes included "Erucu" from the "Mahogany" soundtrack and "Two Pigs & A Hog" from the "Cooley High" soundtrack. His influence on the art of DJing was recognized by contemporaries, including John "Jellybean" Benitez, who acknowledged Gibbons' groundbreaking methods. In his later years, Gibbons faced health challenges and lived alone in a YMCA. He passed away from complications related to AIDS at the age of 40. In a final act of generosity, he donated his record collection to an AIDS charity in San Francisco. His funeral saw a small gathering, while a memorial service was held

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