You’ve spent half of your summer in Europe. How does it feel to be dancing your way through the continent in 2024?
I feel very lucky to be able to spend so much time abroad this summer. It’s been great to visit friends I’ve met through music.
You were in Paris right before the games - Any favorite clubs or places you never miss when you’re in town?
My best friend lives in Paris, so when I’m there, it’s more about eating, drinking, and strolling around than partying. I usually stop into Betino’s record shop and do the classic 6+ hour day drinking session by the Seine. During my last trip, I ended up in a small absinthe bar called L’Eurydice that had the most electric band playing Brazilian instrumental pieces, and a bar staff that was more party than service. It was the perfect summer night with lots of laughs, dancing, and chartreuse.
You’ve been a regular in Munich, Germany. What’s your take on the city? Any hidden spots or experiences that people should know about?
Munich caught me by surprise. I loved it there so much, I’ve already made three trips back this summer. From taking dips in the Isar River on a hot day to open-air parties at the art museum, I think it’s a great place to spend a summer. My top 3 recommendations: HYTOP Block Party, the grilled cheese sandwich from Bingo, and a bike ride through Englischer Garten.
Where do you see NYC nightlife heading in the next 10 years? Are there any trends or shifts that you’re excited (or concerned) about?
I’m forever the optimist and I believe NYC will always continue to push nightlife forward. I think in this city, there’s space for every sound and every mission. People in nightlife just need to have a purpose. Even if that purpose is simply “fun,” as long as you have a clear motive behind the songs you put on your USB, the lighting you pick for your club, your door policy, or your drink options, then something great can happen. I think it’s easy to get caught up in feeling like things are getting monotonous or played out, but for me, it just takes one random night experiencing something unexpectedly great (like 1 a.m. pasta or “Here Comes the Rain Again” during a flash storm, surrounded by your favorite people) to restore my faith in our little nightlife bubble.
You’ve also been DJing for the last decade. How has your sound as a DJ evolved over the years? Is “Soulful Bliss” a good description for your music today?
This is a tough one. My sound has changed so much because I’ve been able to witness some of the masters work their magic while working in clubs. Today, I try to honor all that I’ve learned in the last few years. My sound is still very soulful and always will be, but I’ve been pushing myself to explore deeper and harder sounds.
You show your love for sparkling water, and it’s contagious. Any recommendations?
My current favorites: Adelholzener, Selters, and Egeria. Want to try: Fürst Bismarck Mineralwasser.
Which artists or DJs should we watch for this fall? Who are you betting on to make waves?
What’s the weirdest thing that’s happened to you in a club in the last few weeks?
And the most rewarding? What moments make it all worth it?
Looking around and realizing that people I’ve always admired and respected have turned into friends who support and encourage me. The people and sense of community that music has brought into my life, and the places it has already taken me, make every moment worth it.
