In this fascinating interview, I sit down with Gouldy to explore how his first experience with Ecstasy in 1988 changed his life and led him deep into the Acid House movement. From his early days with Leeds football hooligans to becoming a Hacienda regular, Gouldy shares a raw and gripping account of how the rave scene transformed UK clubbing culture forever.
? August Bank Holiday 1988 – Gouldy and his mate “Gooey” take their first Ecstasy pill in a pub in Leeds. Expecting little, they suddenly feel euphoric, walking out with their hands in the air. This was the moment everything changed.
? The Warehouse & The Hacienda – Encouraged by friends, they visit Manchester’s legendary Hacienda nightclub, where DJ Dave Haslam was playing. The moment they stepped in, they realized this was unlike any club they had ever seen. The energy, the music, and the people—it was a cultural shift.
? First Acid House Party – One night, after leaving the Hacienda at 2 AM, they followed flyers for an Acid House party in Manchester. With no idea where to go, they asked a guy outside the Midland Hotel, who led them to the location. It turned out to be one of the best nights of his life, dancing until 7 AM.
? Meeting Jeff the Chef – Through the Hacienda’s tour at The Warehouse in Leeds, Gouldy met Jeff the Chef, who introduced him to a network of like-minded ravers and DJs. This connection shaped Gouldy’s next few years, as he became immersed in the scene.
? The Rise of Acid House Culture – The early Acid House movement spread rapidly across the UK. Leeds, Blackpool, and other cities embraced the scene, with Gouldy and his friends bringing music and club culture back home from Manchester’s legendary nights.
? Leeds Clubbing Scene Takes Off – Gouldy’s mate Tony started putting on legendary nights in Leeds, including Kaos, Soak, and Up Yer Ronson. Gouldy began DJing, and although his early gigs had their challenges, it cemented his love for music.
? Opening Trax Record Shop – With a passion for House music, Gouldy opened Trax, a record shop in Leeds. He recalls a memorable phone call to Chicago, speaking directly to Benji Espinoza from DJ International Records, discussing the Hacienda and Chicago House legends.
? Gouldy’s Favorite Hacienda Track – Neil Howard - The Gathering ?
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