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Jet Set, an aging disco just a block from the sea in Santo Domingo, was the place to be on Monday nights.

And this Monday was no exception.

A collection of the country’s bold face names — from bankers to retired Major League Baseball players to politicians — were eager to kick up their heels and party, even on a school night, to see a concert by Rubby Pérez, who is known as the “loudest voice in merengue.”

Hundreds of people paid $32 for tickets to see the renowned Dominican entertainer who had recently celebrated his 69th birthday.

Live music Mondays at the Jet Set were something of a tradition in the Dominican capital, where a penchant for enjoying life and good music helped the night club thrive with locals and tourists alike.

“Jet Set was a symbol,” said José Antonio Rodríguez, a singer and former Dominican minister of culture. “You have to understand: The Dominican is a partyer. They like to get together with friends — and Jet Set was a place for that.”