Our Story

Where We Began

Club Focus, located at 14 Hagerman, emerged as a vibrant, unlicensed, all-ages dance club in 1986. Previously a venue with a rich history, including hosting community dances and being known as Club Kongos in the early ’80s, it became a hub for Toronto’s youth. Owned by Warren Webley, who was already renowned for his Sunshine Sound enterprise, the club featured the Sunshine Sound Crew DJs, drawing in crowds of teens eager to experience new music.

“Whether it was house or new wave or ska, the beat had to be there. And the sound system was the big thing. Whatever music was played, that bass was coming through your body. You might hear some of the same music at other places, but it wasn’t the same experience."

Club Focus played a crucial role in the youth culture of the late '80s, offering a unique blend of music and an energetic atmosphere.

Despite its close proximity to Nathan Phillip Square, Club Focus stood out with its massive sound setup and became a popular destination for teenagers aged 14-18. The club’s diverse crowd included preps, skaters, mods, rude boys, and skinheads. The music, curated by DJs like Tony Duncan and later Warren’s son, Devon Webley, covered a wide range from new wave to reggae and house.

Club Focus played a crucial role in the youth culture of the late ’80s, offering a unique blend of music and an energetic atmosphere. The club’s influence extended beyond entertainment, nurturing future DJs, promoters, and venue owners. The loyal crowd, often attending every weekend, contributed to the club’s success.

Continuing The Legacy

Despite its significance, Club Focus faced challenges, including occasional violence and conflicts between different subcultures. The original location closed as its lease expired, and the property was reclaimed for development. Warren Webley briefly relocated Club Focus to Club Z after a stabbing incident, but it eventually moved to Oakwood and Vaughan before closing.

Warren Webley’s legacy continued with a Sunshine Sound and Lighting shop, now with locations in Scarborough and Eglinton West. Devon Webley, after a successful DJ career at Focus, transitioned to executive production for Focus Records and later became a content family man and a TTC bus driver.

The parking lot at 14 Hagerman. Photo by Denise Benson.

Continuing The Legacy

Despite its significance, Club Focus faced challenges, including occasional violence and conflicts between different subcultures. The original location closed as its lease expired, and the property was reclaimed for development. Warren Webley briefly relocated Club Focus to Club Z after a stabbing incident, but it eventually moved to Oakwood and Vaughan before closing.

The parking lot at 14 Hagerman. Photo by Denise Benson.

Warren Webley’s legacy continued with a Sunshine Sound and Lighting shop, now with locations in Scarborough and Eglinton West. Devon Webley, after a successful DJ career at Focus, transitioned to executive production for Focus Records and later became a content family man and a TTC bus driver.

Club Focus, with its vibrant history and impact on Toronto's youth culture, remains a nostalgic and influential chapter in the city's nightlife, even though its original location has been replaced by a parking lot.

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