Rockhead's Paradise Ad
Dublin Core
Title
Rockhead's Paradise Ad
Subject
Rockhead's Paradise
Description
Rockhead's Paradise holds a significant place in history, with its owner, Rufus Rockhead, being Montreal’s first Black nightclub owner, and likely the first in Canada. Rockhead’s club was one of the few venues of its time that welcomed everyone, regardless of background. This openness helped make it a central hub for emerging talent. Over the years, major figures such as Oscar Peterson, Oliver Jones, Harold “Steep” Wade, and the Sealey brothers performed or trained there, using the space to develop their skills and build their careers. Rockhead’s Paradise was also known for its energetic entertainment. Audiences came for big, polished shows featuring comedians, acrobats, tap dancers, exotic dancers, and the club’s own chorus line, the “Rockhead-ettes.” Its mix of talent and inclusive atmosphere made the venue a key space for Black performers in the city.
Creator
The Gazette
Source
“Rockhead’s Paradise Ad,” The Gazette, February 13, 1951, 10 https://www.newspapers.com
Publisher
The Gazette
Date
February 13, 1951
Contributor
The Gazette
Rights
The Gazette
Type
Image
Still Image Item Type Metadata
Original Format
Newspaper
Files
Citation
The Gazette , “Rockhead's Paradise Ad,” Black Canadian History Exhibit, accessed December 5, 2025, http://omeka.uottawa.ca/mathieu-black-canadian-history-exhibit/items/show/369.