The Upper West Side of Manhattan has been a place of much change and controversy during the pandemic. As the city grappled with increasing homelessness, it was decided at one point to move thousands of homeless individuals to several hotels on the UWS, in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in shelters. Regardless of how anyone might view this move, which has since been revoked, one could say that the landscape of New York’s famed Upper West Side had drastically changed.
This section of the city, known for its culture and liberal intellectualism, had taken on a radically different flavor, surrendering to the wild waves of the pandemic. New Yorkers were devastated, with many fleeing to leave their beloved hometown for, gasp, suburbia.
One of the Crown Jewels of the UWS is Lincoln Center, across from which is the iconic Empire Hotel (of Gossip Girl fame). Both discerning locals, as well as visitors from across the globe, have always flocked to the Empire for a variety of reasons, one being their fabulous Rooftop bar and lounge. With magnificent city views, sexy vibes, excellent menu, and live DJ’s, the Empire Rooftop is a hot spot for NYC’s famous nightlife.
It seems that each time the pandemic showed signs of lessening, a new variant would arise with the message of, “not so fast, People”. It’s been three long years since covid hit; people are craving socialization more than ever. Lockdown has given new meaning to the notion of grabbing a drink and a meal with a friend. Who ever imagined that dancing and gathering would be unattainable? Humans are pack animals who are designed to socialize within the herd, which means nightlife is no small thing.
NYC nightlife in particular has always been part of the city’s uniquely strong heartbeat. And it’s back in full swing at the Empire Rooftop. Hiring the city’s top DJs has been one of the ways in which the Empire has reopened its doors to its beloved city. One such DJ is Lady Blaga, who was brought in to reset the tone during this period of renewal. Spinning pop and R&B hits, Lady Blaga created a musical atmosphere for patrons to remember the joy of meeting up on the weekend in the greatest city in the world. Her special brand of energy was a welcoming presence in a world still in recovery. The crowd was ready, drinks flowed, and vibes were hot as people came together to celebrate life. New York is a model of resilience and strength. Its nightlife will never be turned off, which is why it’s the City That Never Sleeps. The Empire is striking back and it’s better than ever.
Photography credits: Gabe Araujo
