John "Jellybean" Benitez, a prominent figure in 1980s New York City club culture, has had a remarkable 50-year career as a DJ, producer, and remixer. His journey began in the South Bronx, where as a teenager he was captivated by the seamless mixing techniques of local DJs. This early exposure ignited a passion for music and its power to transport people to a state of pure enjoyment. Determined to create such experiences himself, Benitez embarked on a path that would lead him to become a highly influential force in the music industry. He honed his skills at various New York City nightclubs, including Hurrah and Studio 54, before landing a pivotal role as the main DJ at the Funhouse. There, his marathon sets, lasting from 10 p.m. to noon the following day, captivated a vast and energetic crowd, solidifying his reputation as a master of keeping the party alive.
The Funhouse served as a crucial launchpad for Benitez’s career, not only as a DJ but also as a producer and remixer. It was there that he first encountered a then-up-and-coming Madonna, whose debut single, "Everybody," was already generating significant buzz among the club’s patrons. Recognizing her potential, Benitez forged a collaborative relationship with Madonna, producing and remixing several of her early hits, including "Burning Up," "Physical Attraction," and "Borderline." He also played a key role in the success of "Holiday," which became a ubiquitous anthem, initially through its B-side status and organic popularity at the Funhouse. This collaboration proved instrumental in launching Madonna’s career and solidified Benitez’s position as a sought-after producer.
Benitez’s innovative approach to DJing, coupled with his keen understanding of what moved crowds, made him a driving force in shaping the soundscape of the 1980s. His eclectic playlists, encompassing diverse genres like hip-hop, New Wave, and even rock, showcased his ability to blend seemingly disparate styles into a cohesive and exhilarating experience. His extended sets at the Funhouse provided him with a vast canvas to experiment and push boundaries, creating immersive sonic journeys that captivated audiences for hours on end. This ability to curate and manipulate music to create a unique atmosphere became a hallmark of Benitez’s style and cemented his legacy as a pioneer of the era.
Beyond his work with Madonna, Benitez’s career as a producer and remixer flourished. He crafted his debut EP, Wotupski!?!, which featured the hit single "Sidewalk Talk" featuring Madonna on backing vocals. This project further showcased his versatility and allowed him to translate the energy of the Funhouse into a recorded format. Benitez’s remixing skills were also in high demand, as he reimagined tracks for a diverse roster of artists, including Billy Joel, Irene Cara, Michael Sembello, Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Cyndi Lauper. His ability to transform pop songs into club-ready anthems, while preserving the integrity of the original material, earned him widespread acclaim. He even became a mix show DJ on WKTU New York, the city’s top radio station at the time, further expanding his reach and influence.
In 1985, Benitez joined forces with Studio 54 operators Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager for the relaunch of the Palladium as a nightclub. This marked a significant milestone in his career, coinciding with the news that his production of Madonna’s "Crazy for You" was about to hit number one. With guidance from fellow DJ Larry Levan, Benitez curated a memorable opening night set at the Palladium, further solidifying his place among the elite DJs of the time. Following this period of intense activity, Benitez took a break from the music scene in the 1990s to focus on his family. However, an invitation from legendary DJ David Mancuso to guest DJ at one of his Loft parties in the early 2000s marked Benitez’s return to the turntables. This experience reconnected him with the vibrant energy of the music scene and reignited his passion for DJing.
Benitez’s dedication extends beyond the dance floor, as he has actively supported charitable causes, most notably the Cristian Rivera Foundation. This organization, founded by John "Gunkie" Rivera in memory of his son who succumbed to a rare childhood brain tumor, resonated deeply with Benitez. He has been a committed supporter of the foundation’s efforts to raise funds for research and find a cure for DIPG. Currently, Benitez is embarking on a new venture: launching Jellybean’s Funhouse, a record store in Fort Lauderdale. This meticulously designed space will offer a unique listening experience with dedicated rooms for vinyl appreciation and a curated selection of new and vintage records. The store will also feature a speakeasy and outdoor area for live performances, bringing Benitez’s passion for music and community full circle. This venture reflects his enduring love for the tangible aspects of music and his desire to share that experience with a new generation.
