The owner of the Baltimore club Dark Room, Ebrahim Hajipour, also known as Ebiz Kowli, has recently found himself in the midst of controversy. Nightlife operators in the city have accused him of making fake calls to the authorities, targeting independent promoters and venues with baseless claims. These promoters, many of whom are queer or people of color, have spoken out about the alleged harassment they have faced at the hands of Hajipour.
Audio clips from three police calls made last year have been shared, confirming the accusations made against Hajipour. In one instance, a call was made regarding a party at a warehouse where the caller, believed to be Hajipour, claimed his friend had been drugged. However, party organizers have refuted these claims, stating that nobody was unwell that night. The incidents have raised concerns within Baltimore’s nightlife community, with many labeling these hoax calls as a direct threat to the city’s arts and music scene.
As a result of these allegations, Theo Parrish has postponed his upcoming residency at Dark Room, which was scheduled to start this weekend. The decision was made in response to the ongoing situation involving Hajipour. Despite the serious accusations, a representative for Hajipour has denied all allegations, claiming that the audio clips and email in question are fraudulent.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for city officials and the community to address these concerns and ensure that such behavior does not go unchecked. The impact of these actions extends beyond individual promoters and venues, affecting the wider arts and music community in Baltimore. As the story continues to unfold, it is important to consider the perspectives of all parties involved and work towards a resolution that upholds the values of collaboration and respect within the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
