Status
Change is certain, but the prolonged existence of a nightclub isn’t always as definite.
When Club Network opened in 1994 it ran with some success for a few years, but in order to keep things interesting, Manager Wil French decided in 2005 that it was time for a transformation.
“We were just thinking how to evolve out of Club Network,” French says. “We shut down for a year and came back as Evolution.”
Priding itself on safety, the downtown dance lounge on Broadway made its debut in 2006 and has been luring in crowds like moths to a flame ever since with its open dance floor and pulse-pounding beats.
“We try to monitor everything,” French says. “We’re into preventive measures.”
While there haven’t been any major problems, French says having well-built security guards on hand acts as a deterrent.
Gear
It’s pretty much come as you are at Evolution where a majority of the crowd wears jeans, t-shirts and club wear. You can also get away with baseball caps, and while management prefers that you don’t wear tennis shoes, there’s no penalty or charge for throwing on a pair of sneaks and dancing your heart out.
Mood
The 20-something crowd makes up the target demo, but it’s not uncommon to see youthful 40-somethings shimming and shaking to smooth hip-hop and R&B beats.
Jazzy art pieces line the muted yellow walls adding an elegant flair, while a slightly raised wooden platform allows VIPs to see and be seen.
“It is an excellent venue with beautiful décor,” says Daishawn Franklin a.k.a. Jelly who has hosted monthly parties at the Detroit hot spot for the past year. Aside from his regular events, you’ll find the native Detroiter at Evolution three to five times a month taking in the scene, enjoying the DJs and connecting with spirited party people just ready to let loose.
This Sunday Jelly is hosting Major: The Official Virgo Bash to celebrate his 33rd birthday.
Pick me up
Along with a full bar and its signature fruity Evolution martini, this club serves up traditional bar food like fried wings, chicken strips and shrimp for about $7. Grey Goose and cranberry are popular drinks along with the ultra-premium tequila Patron.
Entertainment
“We’re going to be doing new and exciting things,” French says. “We’re about to start doing Celebrity Thursday where a national artist is brought in every Thursday.”
Along with the celebrity night, Evolution, which is currently just open on Fridays and Saturdays, will begin doing a Grown and Sexy Night for “more mature audiences,” French says.
Celebrity Thursday launches Sept. 18, and Grown and Sexy, which will feature more R&B than hip-hop, begins Sept. 19.
Cover ranges from $10 to $20 depending on the night, and Evolution is also available for rentals and birthday parties.
