When it opened in 1980 on West 39th Street, Danceteria upped the ante for cultural crosspollination in New York nightlife. Philip Glass, Devo and a rising star named Madonna were just a few of the artists who performed at the club, which moved to a three-floor location at 30 West 21st Street with a dancefloor, video installation room and live performance stage. Jim Fouratt, Danceteria's talent booker, and video artist Kit Fitzgerald join us to talk about the club and its place on the city's scene.

All week we are talking about New York's historic, past concert venues. As the 30th annual CMJ Music Marathon kicks off today, we turn to the city's current starting line-up of concert-going places.

Singer-songwriters Lily and Abigail Chapin are the latest generation of the musical family that includes Grammy-winning children’s artist Tom Chapin (their father) and singer-songwriter Harry Chapin (their uncle). Performing as The Chapin Sisters, Lily and Abigail have worked with Lavender Diamond, Will Oldham and others. They join us to play songs from their sophomore album, “Two.”

With over 1,200 bands playing in the Big Apple this week, it's hard even for the most diehard music fan to make decisions about what to see at the 2010 CMJ music and film festival. Here's WNYC's short list of must-see CMJ (and Pitchfork Offline festival) shows, along with 15 free downloads of some of the week's music.

Danceteria: where Madonna met Philip Glass (well, sorta)

The CMJ Music and Film Festival brings 1,200 plus bands to 75 New York City venues for five days. Here's WNYC's guide to this year's music marathon, complete with tips and top picks from the critics.

Dominique Young Unique, the 18-year-old rap sensation from Tampa, plays a CMJ opening night party at Webster Hall this evening. Download her "Hot Girl," chock full of rapid-fire raps and high-flying synths.

On the opening night of the CMJ Music Marathon, buzzier-than-thou Francis and the Lights brings its synth-laden disco-funk to Webster Hall. Download the band's terminally chill "For Days."

Sister singing groups have long captured the imaginations of audiences. Zambri exchanges the homespun sound for some vintage synthesizers and a large dose of attitude. Dowload the band's "Carry Me" here.