Want to unwind on Sundays after brunch with drinks and music and drag, not pay a fortune and still be home by Grown Folks Time? Cum to PLAYTHINGZ, an new Sunday daytime dance party (3-7pm) at Playhouse Bar in the West Village, with pop up shows from some of New York drag’s hottest new stars, care of Thotyssey NYC & Phil Chanel! Get all the deets here.
This big hearted, big voiced diva has a lot going on this month–including a weekly presence across the state line, and their producing debut right here in NYC. Staci the Drag Artist has got it going on!
Thotyssey: Hello Staci, thanks for chatting with us! So, we are already in May… how was your April?
Staci: Hi! I cannot believe we are in May already, this year is flying by so fast! My April went well, pretty busy, and pretty fun! I started off the month traveling up to Hartford where I performed in a benefit show at The Chez. We raised money for AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention) and it was such a great night. I did several competitions and open stages across NYC and Connecticut. I performed in a benefit show earlier in April at 3 Dollar Bill where we helped raise money for Camp OUT Florida. I also participated in “Supernovas” at Pink Metal last week, which was a wonderful benefit show. April was the month of giving back for me, and it felt good getting to participate in several benefit shows.
And May is giving as well! You have something in common with another local performer, Boxa Crayonz, in that you both do lots of stuff in Connecticut as well as here. Are you a Connecticut native?
I’m not, but I live on Long Island which is only an hour drive from there. I started doing shows in Connecticut a year ago when I heard about a new open stage called “Wacky Wednesdays.” I signed up one week, then kept going back. Now I’m doing things in Connecticut on a weekly basis. I really enjoy Connecticut and the scene there. I am a native at heart, and have considered moving there! PS, I love Boxa and got to work with them several times… such an incredible performer!
You’re known as a live singing drag artist… have you been singing your whole life?
Yes! I’ve been singing on stage since I was four. I’ve done various musical theatre productions, talent shows, sang in school choirs, etc. Once I started singing, I never stopped. I knew once I started drag that I had to incorporate live singing in it. I keep my voice in check by doing vocal lessons weekly. My vocal coach is Makon Mayhem, who also happens to be an incredible drag king in the scene. Lessons every week have been helping me to sing properly, and keep my voice in check. I’ve been doing vocal lessons consistently for a year, and I’m so grateful to Makon for coaching me, I couldn’t do this without him!
How did you discover drag, and begin your own drag journey?
I discovered drag the summer of 2013 when I was 15. I was in theater summer camp one day and I heard a group of kids discuss RuPaul’s Drag Race.” I interrupted the conversation by saying: “What’s RuPaul’s Drag Race?” The whole group turned around and gasped. They told me everything about the show, and showed me photos. I was in awe of drag and the craftsmanship. Two years later, I was involved in a community theatre production of a La Cage Aux Folles. I was helping behind the scenes, and saw drag artists in person for the first time. Seeing what they did I thought to myself: “I want to do that one day.”
I attended every drag show under the sun once I started college. My freshman year, we had a costume contest. I dressed in drag for the first time, and won first prize. Two years went by, and I haven’t thought of doing drag again. In 2019, I did my college school musical playing a diva and incorporated the character into a drag artist. Two weeks after that I did my very first drag show.
At the time I only performed occasionally. I wasn’t sure if drag was the perfect fit for me yet. I started off dressing in drag, and just live singing. Ten months in, the pandemic hit and the world stopped. I quit drag briefly during that time thinking, “am I sure this is what I want to do?” In 2021, I got myself back out there doing a few shows. I realized how much I enjoyed drag, and wanted to pursue it. I made a pact January 2022 to do drag on a consistent basis (weekly), and I stuck with it.
I would say 2022 is when I truly started doing drag seriously. I did competitions every week to learn and grow. I still do them often to learn more about myself. I’ve grown tremendously over the past year, stepping myself out of my comfort zone and trying new things. I signed up for every open stage I could put my hands on. I’ve done shows consistently in the New York City and Connecticut drag scene, and achieved more things than I could ever imagine. I’m still learning and growing but proud of myself for my growth and development over the past year and a half.
You identify as non-binary; was it ever a struggle to reconcile that identity with drag, which is traditionally thought of as gender play?
Yes, at first it definitely was. When I first started drag, I thought I could only present feminine or only present masculine. My first few months doing drag, I considered myself a drag queen and only did feminine numbers. Then I realized that I was struggling to reconcile my gender identity. I was getting misgendered left and right, and felt dysphoric.
When I did more research, I saw “drag things.” Drag things do masculine personas, feminine personas, androgynous personas, and in between. Seeing them perform made me realize that I could showcase my gender expression through my art. I played around and created multiple characters. I started doing more androgynous and masculine drag in addition, which gave me euphoria. Days where I want to be more masc presenting I do masculine drag numbers, and days where I want to be more femme presenting I do femme drag numbers. There are many shows where I’ll do my first number in boy drag, then change to girl drag for Act Two, and vice versa.
Figuring out the term “drag thing” and experimenting with my drag helped me feel more comfortable in my skin. It helped me be able to represent myself more as a non-binary person and showcase my gender identity through my performance and everyday life.
I saw you perform at a benefit at Stonewall for the Colorado Springs attack several months ago, and hostess Islaya introduced you as one of the city’s most talented younger queens! Do you get a lot of love and support like that from the New York drag folks?
Islaya is an incredible performer, and she’s so down to earth. I feel fortunate to get love and support from many of the NYC drag legends. I look up to them, and hearing their kind words means a lot to me. I’ve received great advice from many of them when I’ve competed at Polish the Queen. It means a lot to me, seeing the more seasoned professional drag artists uplift and support us up-and-coming artists. They were in our shoes when they first started, and have been giving us encouragement and support to learn and grow.
Let’s talk about some fun things coming up: firstly, this Sunday you’ll be doing a Taylor Swift drag show at Sand City Brewing in Lindenhurst, Long Island with some other great queens!
I am super excited about this show! We are doing a Taylor Swift Eras drag show documenting music from all of Taylor’s past albums. Every performer will be serving Taylor Swift realness and it’s bound to be a fantastic night! The show is hosted by Awhora Borealis and features performances from Alice Noir, Stella Virgin, Annie Manildoo, Vivi Alma, Cassie, and myself. If you can’t afford to see Taylor Swift in concert then come on down to Sand City Brewing!
Then I see that Thursday, May 11, you and many queens from this same cast will be back for another LI event… this time, drag bingo at the Village Idiot Pub in Oakdale!
Yes! I am very excited for this event. It will be my very first time ever doing a drag bingo. After going to drag bingos for years, I have the lingos and jokes prepared for when the balls drop.
Straight folks can make for pretty fun, enthusiastic audiences compared to those cynical, hard-to-please gays!
As it’s Long Island, I think it’s going to be a mostly straight audience. The straight women bachelorette parties especially make performing shows on the Island very entertaining. I’ve also seen middle-aged women in their 40s come, get drunk, tip the house down, and have been on their feet for us. I’ve had very good experiences catering to audiences of all genders and sexualities!
And this is really exciting: May 23rd will be “Staci’s Quarter Life Crisis Drag Show” at Starr Bar! That’s gonna have a big cast, and I understand that besides your birthday it will be you your big show producing debut.
Yes! I am super thrilled about it. I’ve been wanting to give back to the community; I’ve done many open stages, and wanted to return the favor by having an open set cast in my show. I have a co-host, two special guests, and an open set of 14 performers that make up the cast. I wanted to celebrate my 25th birthday with a bang and figured: “why not produce a show?” I am bringing performers in from NYC, LI, and CT with me! I am so excited to be producing my show and showcasing incredible talent!
I am crossing off one of my biggest drag goals producing this show and I am hoping to produce more in NYC after this, as well as produce on Long Island, and Connecticut to help give performers opportunities to shine!
What else is on your agenda?
I have a few exciting things coming up in June that I’m excited to share. June 3rd I will be performing at Middletown Pride in Connecticut. June 11th, I am performing in a benefit show for TRCLI (Transgender Resource Center of Long Island) at Station Pub in Sayville. You can also catch me on Wednesdays at Trevi Lounge at 9pm, and I have more things in store that I can’t wait to announce when I can!
Much to look forward to! Okay, to close: who had your favorite Met Gala look this week?
I love watching the Met Gala every year; I was constantly refreshing my feed to see all of the looks. My favorite look from this week was Doja Cat. I was especially impressed with the makeup! My other favorite was Lizzo. Not just the carpet but the looks she served at the after party.
Thanks Staci!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Staci’s upcoming performances, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Want to unwind on Sundays after brunch with drinks and music and drag, not pay a fortune and still be home by Grown Folks Time? Cum to PLAYTHINGZ, an new Sunday daytime dance party (3-7pm) at Playhouse Bar in the West Village, with pop up shows from some of New York drag’s hottest new stars, care of Thotyssey NYC & Phil Chanel! Get all the deets here.
A longtime writer on music, entertainment and the nightlife beat who’s recently covered some major stories in the scene, Michael Cook is also an event producer and promoter (and recent GLAM nominee). Now he’s here to tell us about a major drag event happening on the other side of the River!
Thotyssey: Michael, thanks for chatting tonight! Spring is here… are you enjoying the season so far?
Michael Cook: My partner and I have a home in Rehoboth Beach, DE so we are opening the house for the season–and at the same time, I am preparing for a fantastic summer in Asbury Park, NJ! I’m happy and blessed to have options.
As a nightlife writer, you turn up basically everywhere! Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy frequenting in NYC?
Bar-wise I am a huge fan of Gym Bar; the staff is amazing, and their happy hour has a consistently great vibe. Rockbar is fantastic, the Eagle rarely disappoints (especially when DJ James Anthony spins) and the Monster remains a classic (Sunday Disco with Greg Scarnici and Robin Byrd)! Showtunes at the Duplex and cocktails at Stonewall have become somewhat of a NYC Pride week tradition for my friends and I. I also love popping into spaces that I haven’t checked out yet, and discovering brand new favorite places as well.
You’re actually one of the few folks regularly writing about queer nightlife in this City. Is it still fun and interesting to cover the scene, or do you get burnt out from it?
Nightlife never gets boring to me. I love to discover people doing things in a completely new and inventive way, and putting a fresh spin on it. I also love to see people giving spaces to new and emerging talent; so many of the legends we have today were birthed at places like “Drag Wars” at Barracuda and the Pyramid Club (RIP).
Can you tell us a bit about where you’re from originally, and what your early history is with writing?
Originally I am from Bogota, Colombia but I was raised and bred a complete Jersey boy. When I first started hitting the New York City scene, HX Magazine, Next Magazine and The Village Voice were my bibles and my North Stars. I would read “La Dolce Musto” (by Michael Musto) religiously (what an honor it was to be considered in the same category as he for a GLAM Award)! I soaked up magazines like Genre, The Advocate, and Out Magazine, and dove into the nightlife culture all over the country head first.
You’ve written for Hornet.com, Out, Instinct, and other magazines and sites. Currently you’re currently with WERRRK.com. How did you come into the world of nightlife writing?
A friend of mine worked for a local NJ publication, and asked me to come on board and write a music column. I did so, and slowly expanded into entertainment. There were no shortcuts, and there were a lot of “no’s” that came my way in the beginning. Slowly though, I built relationships with PR firms and networks– many of which I still work with over a decade later. I recently looked at my high school yearbook, and one of my life goals was to become a writer. Box checked, I guess!
Did you ever get any memorable feedback from a reader, or whomever, on something you’ve written? Maybe even from the person you wrote about?
Someone very wise told me a long time ago: “don’t read the comments”–although I’ve definitely peeked at a few once or twice. I’ve gotten some lovely messages on pieces I’ve written from the people I’ve spoken to, and that never fails to be a complete thrill… especially if it is someone I’ve admired. I also made Joan Rivers laugh out loud; nothing will ever be better.
One major change in journalism is that social media is now essential to share articles.
You’re right, social media is crucial for journalists all over to distribute their content. I’ve also developed great contacts through social media, and had some amazing collaborations with people I’ve met on social media. I encourage anyone in the industry to look at the new and emerging artists, authors or recording artists that come up as you scroll on Instagram or TikTok. I’ve discovered some true treasure, and been lucky enough to feature them. People like Jared Milian, John Duff and Anne Steele are so talented, and I’ve gotten to turn others onto their music through my writing.
What was your favorite “era” of nightlife to have written about, or just experienced?
MC: My first nightlife era was the end of the Club Kid Era. I got to know some of them during that era, but it was slowly ending at that time. My most vivid nightlife memories are from the era of the big nightclub; everywhere from Palladium for Junior Vasquez’s “Arena,” Twilo, Roxy, and Tunnel. I met countless people at that time, some of which I get to call friends today. The experiences I had at these spaces shaped my own nightlife sensibilities, and framed how I write about the nightlife culture of today. Years later, getting to know people like Hex Hector, Junior Vasquez, and the dearly departed Peter Rauhofer outside of the DJ booth never won’t be a treat.
Your more recent articles about The Q’s many problems got tons of circulation, and even got you a well-deserved GLAM nom! Was it crazy to see how those articles really helped to change people’s perspectives about that particular place, and about the bad habits of local venue spaces in general regarding inclusivity, drugs, etc.?
Thank you so much for the kind words. Accountability is so crucial, and the behavior that allegedly was occurring at The Q is not acceptable in today’s nightlife landscape. I was beyond pleased to see people not just read the articles, but to take action by pulling their shows and not patronizing the venue any longer. Is there one more chapter for me to write on downfall of The Q? There just might be…
Also, the crash and burn of the Oasis nightclub in Asbury Park, before it even opened and, like, a day after it was announced (!), was another wild ride you covered. Those would-be owners really messed up with the tone of that announcement, didn’t they?
The missteps made with this announcement were exactly that. In short, community is to be revered, respected, and when you enter into a new market, your homework should be done. Asbury Park has a famed nightlife history with multiple LGBTQ establishments existing at the same time. Paradise for example, is a tentpole of the LGBTQ community in Asbury Park and on the East Coast as a whole; even remotely bashing any business in print is never going to work in your favor.
What’s happening now in the country with this anti-drag legislature is bewildering. Do you think that this speaks to the intense queerphobia that still exists everywhere?
This is a rinse and repeat of Anita Bryant’s “Save Our Children” campaign in the 1970’s. And while I’m not suggesting anyone should slap an elected official with a cream pie like they did to her, it was not about saving children then any more than it is now. It’s about those with an overly puritanical view of the world trying to impart that on us; and it most definitely is not going to work. Our community is strong, diverse, galvanized and ready to take on this fight.
You are currently promoting what looks to be a very important and entertaining day-long event at Paradise on Sunday, May 7th: “Drag Queen Visibility Day!” The activities of the day are centered around uniting the community in the face of this anti-drag rhetoric, educating folks on voting and politics, and also just pure entertainment with shows and panels hosted by queens like Jolina Jasmine, Victoria Courtez, Pissi Myles, Bella Sky, Tastie, Cee’Mour Cox, Miss Paradise 2023 Sapphira Cristal and more.
There is a reason that Paradise just received a mention on the RuPaul’s Drag Race main stage; countless drag queens can call it the place where they got their start. RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants Honey Davenport and Olivia Lux have even been crowned Miss Paradise. Drag Queen Visibility Day truly has something for everyone; a Drag Queen Story Hour with Jolina Jasmine and “Drag Zumba” with Victoria Courtez. The event culminates in a proclamation from the City of Asbury Park declaring May 7th officially Drag Queen Visibility Day. This is a day for not just the LGBTQ community to show their support for the drag community, but for our allies to unequivocally show that they stand in solidarity with us.
What else is going on with you, or coming up for you?
I am about to dive into another season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 8 to do weekly elimination interviews, which will keep me very busy. I have some big-name interviews that I am about to conduct and schedule; one is particularly “Wicked.”
I’ve also gotten into event production of my own in the past couple years. I have two seasons of consistently sold-out “Pork Roll Egg & Queens” drag brunches at Curtains Restaurant in Avenel, NJ. I also work closely with the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, NJ and have helped develop their Ocean Pride brand. We’ve had some spectacular drag showcase events, and are about to announce a big event for Pride month where you may see a few familiar faces.
By the way, any interest in writing a book someday?
Have I been approached? Yes. Do I have ideas of my own? Yes. I’ll say this: if I have something to announce shortly, you’ll be the first to know.
And finally: as you said, the cast of Drag Race All-Stars 8 was just announced! Whose team are you on?
This season has everything: classic performers like Mrs. Kasha Davis to hometown favorites like Kandy Muse; this is my favorite type of All Stars cast. I think RuPaul says it best: “I can’t wait to see how this turns out…”
New episode of Thotyssey NYC & Red Eye Radio’s exclusive nightlife gossip / news podcast “Thotlight” hosted by Jim Silvestri & Freddie Cosmo out now, available on all major streaming platforms!
Thotyssey’s Jim Silvestri and co-host Freddie Cosmo present a weekly podcast taped live at Red NY discussing NYC queer nightlife news and gossip, featuring a new interview with a dynamic insider each week.
Freddie’s ho-ing around, so Jim’s guest co-host today is one of our station bosses, Daniel Nardicio’s bro & “The Trade of Red Eye” Adam Klesh! He gives us new updates Red Eye’s imminent (no, really) opening, as well as the status of her sister venue The Ice Palace, and the adventures of venue ownership in both New York and Berlin.
Then Jim & Adam speak to their guest of the week: queer indie recording artist and social media sensation Mel 4Ever! She tells us about a recent cathartic family reunion in the south and surviving a religious upbringing and fratboy abuse, overcoming vocal dysphoria and her developing her theatric and therapeutic stage presence, the influence of artists like Kim Petras and Slayyyter on her own work, and some exciting gigs and releases coming our way! They also discuss “how to fuck a toilet.”
In the news: Paper Magazine just fired everyone; a Florida Pride parade cancelled in fear of anti-drag legislation; despite Tennessee’s own pending anti-drag bill, Lizzo brought RuGirls on stage for her concert there; the Drag Race All-Stars 8 cast was announced; RIP Dame Edna Everage.
MONSTER: [upstairs] live music (3:30pm); [downstairs] Disco tea dance feat. DJ Greg Scarnici & Robin Byrd (4pm); [upstairs] Pianist Dan Daly (5pm); [upstairs] Pianist Kenny Allan Smith (10pm); [downstairs]FiFi DuBois & Brenda Dharling (11pm)
Want to unwind on Sundays after brunch with drinks and music and drag, not pay a fortune and still be home by Grown Folks Time? Cum to PLAYTHINGZ, an new Sunday daytime dance party (3-7pm) at Playhouse Bar in the West Village, with pop up shows from some of New York drag’s hottest new stars, care of Thotyssey NYC & Phil Chanel! Get all the deets here.
Want to unwind on Sundays after brunch with drinks and music and drag, not pay a fortune and still be home by Grown Folks Time? Cum to PLAYTHINGZ, an new Sunday daytime dance party (3-7pm) at Playhouse Bar in the West Village, with pop up shows from some of New York drag’s hottest new stars, care of Thotyssey NYC & Phil Chanel! Get all the deets here.
Want to unwind on Sundays after brunch with drinks and music and drag, not pay a fortune and still be home by Grown Folks Time? Cum to PLAYTHINGZ, an new Sunday daytime dance party (3-7pm) at Playhouse Bar in the West Village, with pop up shows from some of New York drag’s hottest new stars, care of Thotyssey NYC & Phil Chanel! Get all the deets here.
This Missouri based DJ / producer and mother of two has been in the music biz for a long time, but only recently has started to wow the queer dance floors with her very specific, cultivated, sonic point of view… even encouraging a few dreamers to become DJs themselves. And now that Alexis Tucci has plenty of gigs in NYC and Fire Island this summer, let’s see how many more lives she’ll change! [Cover photo: Terry Walthall]
Thotyssey: Hi Alexis! Happy Spring, aka Early Summer! How are you liking this?
Alexis Tucci: I live in Saint Louis, Missouri and I’m traveling currently between Cali and Mexico so I’m [not sure what the New York weather is like.] I love spring for fresh perspectives, and my garden is blooming… but my allergies leave a bit to be desired!
I didn’t know that you lived in St. Louis! You do lots of traveling as a DJ, and you’re in NYC often. Do you have a favorite city to spin in?
That’s a tough question, because I’ve been having so many incredible experiences all over the country with some of the most loving and colorful people I’ve ever met. I’d be remiss not to say that my hometown of Saint Louis has been extraordinary during my career! But at the end of the day… New York City and Fire Island adjacent is my favorite right now. The vibe between the audiences and myself is electrifying and love-drenched!
So was music always a part of your life… and how and where did your DJ journey begin?
Yes, music has always been a part of my life: disco and Motown were two genres that both my mother and my father exposed me to at a young age. I really fell in love with music when I became a teenager, listening to ska and punk alternative. It wasn’t until I was 15 years old and found myself at the first warehouse party ever in St. Louis that I realized I was going to dedicate my whole life to house, music, and its culture.
I started promoting at that time with the first generation of local promoters, doing raves and warehouse parties. And when I was 17, I started throwing my own raves–which lasted for more than 10 years. Originally, I thought I was going to become a DJ that played acid jazz, reggae dub and trip hop, as well as other assorted downtempo styles. There were hardly any female DJs at all, and surely not any playing that urban sound. But trying to mix that downtempo stuff was tough, so by default I started playing house music.
It wasn’t until I started playing with my ex-husband Chris Hansen, who is an incredible Afro-Cuban percussionist who played improvisational over my disco and Latin tech house, that I started getting good. Eventually I was surrounded by some of the most talented jazz and blues musicians is Saint Louis, as we had formed a sessions band called the Hot House Sessions. We lasted about nine years, and played almost 250 shows a year in our heyday. I’ve been in several other bands with my DJing over the last few years, and still play with some incredible musicians. I think that’s where I get a lot of my tonality today.
In recent years, you’ve really made a name for yourself spinning for massive gay parties and at queer venues. How did you come to find yourself in that world?
Magic, lol! Well, it feels like it, anyway. I’m a firm believer that you gotta take every opportunity that presents itself, and you gotta take risks and push boundaries to be found and seen–truly seen–especially coming from a city like Saint Louis, where these opportunities usually pass on by.
Coming out of Covid was no different. When I saw an opportunity to align with the Elements festival in the Poconos which was experimenting with two-part Covid testing for their 400+ guests, I offered to bring my team in to help facilitate the production of one of their main stages. I think we did a pretty incredible job…. It was so beautiful!! Jake Resnicow was site-visiting the property during that time for a similar type event (“Dystopia“) he would be throwing a month or two later, saw my work, and hired me to be his event designer for that event.
It was exhausting and madness, but a really beautiful event just the same in October of 2020. I was just there to design and build; however on Saturday night, I had a tiny decorated room amidst all the large scale production that was absent of any activation… and it was the only time I found myself not entirely swamped. So I got dressed up in my sparkles and dragged my DJ gear through the snow and set it up. To my surprise, A beautiful boy named Brandon arrived to host the room (’til this day I can’t believe I almost didn’t do it, because he was so beautiful and dressed up so perfectly). I asked what he wanted to hear, and he said French disco… and the rest is history. I played a three hour set, and the boys lived! They asked me to close out the festival the next night in the same place, which I did. It was equally magical.
The following April in 2021 I was hired to produce Jake Resnicow’s event in Isla Mujeres, Mexico called “Utopia,” which I did with my small team–and at that event I was also invited to do a Sunday afternoon set. Matt Denton was scheduled to play after me, but he gifted me his set time because the boys from Dystopia AR had gotten there late and wanted me to keep playing. I play the six hours through the sunset on the coast of Mexico, with tears in my eyes and everyone else’s eyes. It was truly one of the most synergetic, emotional, exceptional moments of my life.
A couple that I’ve become close with during that time followed along with me to Tulum for a few more gigs. Matt and Blake invited me at that moment to join them on Fire Island in May for the season kick-off, so that they could introduce me to a few more people. At this time I had no idea what Fire Island was, nor did I understand circuit culture, and that I would be seeing the same people I saw in Mexico on Fire Island.
Saturday night of that weekend I had no idea that I’d be playing the one set that would change my life forever. After two attempts at trying to find a spot for me to play that day, I was welcomed into [FI home and party location] Froot Falls by Joey with the Mustache, where I played the sets from 11pm to 7am. And at that moment, everything changed. I played another set the following day and the following night, a total of some 17 hours in two days. My friend Matt Tully kept asking me if I had a manager or an agent; I had no idea what that meant. Following that weekend, I made sure I had a manager in place and I started touring every weekend, and have been for the last two years.
It was also that night that I talked with Joey with the Mustache until the wee hours of the morning–Sunday night into Monday morning–but he decided he wanted to leave comedy behind and pursue DJing as a career. Never in my life have I seen anybody dedicate so much of himself to the craft… not only as someone who is trying to contribute to its evolution, but also someone who honors its past. He’s really important to me. And oddly enough, we are getting ready to celebrate my two year anniversary on Fire Island May 20. Can’t believe it’s only been two years.
Your return to Froot Falls is much anticipated! Fire island’s such a magical place, isn’t it?
It is the most magical. I love the history. I don’t usually bend for most things, but I will bend for tradition, and honor institutions that have been the foundation for so much growth and change. Pines Party, teas, underwear parties and the legendary Pavilion are just a few of the institutions I think make the place so unique. And I love being a part of the new traditions… reintroducing house music and disco, and beach parties like Joeys “5-HTP!” I also love family dinners and dress up before the nightly festivities kick off. It’s just all so community based, wonderland-like… and at least since I’ve been going out there, completely love drenched!
Here’s a broad question, but what do you think about the state of music today? Social media and streaming have obviously changed everything forever, but there are a lot of pros and cons about that.
I’d have to say I come from a pretty seasoned–which also means old–perspective, lol. As an event producer and as a DJ, I don’t think we will ever lose the desire to see music live and to experience performance live. And although I do feel music is way more disposable than it’s ever been, I think there will always be a need for tangible tracks that people can collect and spin live for live audiences that need that community experience. I come from an era of music where you bought your tracks on $12-15 vinyl records in maybe $3-400 chunks, and then you played those tracks over and over in a million different ways to keep it fresh until you could afford another batch to rotate in! As for whether or not people will buy tickets versus streaming… I don’t think the web will ever replace the show. It just helps promote them farther, faster.
You are the mother of two teen sons! Is it a challenge to balance the worlds of being a touring DJ and producer with parenthood?
It’s challenging, but not impossible! I was like most nightlife / career mamas who were worried about how much their lives would change. But it’s been my greatest accomplishment, and my boys are the two things I’ve been the most proud of out of any aspect of my life.
It’s almost impossible to remember how hard it was when they were little, or what had to be sacrificed in the early years, because every other minute of our time together has been worth it. Even on the hardest day. I love seeing my boys grow up with traits from both myself and their father, but also to see behaviors and interests they grew all on their own.
I’m proud to have transparency and open communication, which leads to basic trust–that is so important these days. I think touring later in life has equipped me with some disciplines, and the awareness to correct what doesn’t serve me. I work as much as motherhood allows. And when it doesn’t, I make sure to reset at home, find my bearings–and then start out again, balanced.
And what I love about being a mother in this industry is that because of my presence, in a very diverse and queer community, that community is becoming normalized amongst my sons and their peer group. A mother once told me on the sidelines at a baseball game that she appreciated that by their sons being friends with my sons, being queer in all its forms was becoming a normal and accepted conversation… where otherwise, the opportunity might have taken longer to happen. Nothing makes me happier to hear.
This weekend will present us with another party you’ll be spinning: “Jungle” at 3 Dollar Bill on Saturday, April 29th, care of Joe Roszak and NAA-RAK.
Well it’s a new market for me a bit, which always gets me pumped! Fresh faces and new energy to tap into! I know my regular crew will be in attendance too, and that’s an equally fun experience. I love seeing different parts of my world come together and grow. And ultimately, we are all a part of the outcome of each show and I think the audience feels that and collectively the community love grows.
I have not met [the people in] NAA-RAK yet, but I’m looking forward to it. This will be my first opportunity to work with Joe; he has been an absolute delight, and is definitely expanding a bit outside of his norm to host me at his Jungle party. He told me he was waiting for the perfect moment, and I’m elated! That kind of trust only fuels my desire to bring my A-game. And it’s fun to build a journey that not only reflects my sound and vibe, but also incorporates my interpretation of the brand Joe has built! It’s going to be a very special night!
Pride is going to be a whirlwind! The Daniel Nardicio family is family to me. Adam Klesh and crew have been lifting me up since the beginning of this new part of my life…. truly an incredible humans and really legit promoters. I’m excited to kick off my Pride celebrations on Fire Island at Daniel’s reinvented Ice Palace and then bring the party over for Red Eye Sunday night! Their new venue is intentionally intimate, and properly laced with great sound and killer energy.
And getting to celebrate Pride alongside my dearest friend and recent mentor Susan Morabito, who is an absolutely deserving legend, is such a treat! Setting up a room for her to take over is not only an honor, but also something I don’t and won’t take lightly. Brandon Vescovo is on with us too, and a real force! Being sandwiched between these two talented artists is going to be a highlight to my career!
And you have one more Pride gig, right?
I also have the distinct please of playing the official NYC Pride closing party for Eric Michael and his Fever events! This is the first time they have welcomed house / disco to this event, and I’m absolutely honored and humbled to be tasked with opening that genre up for his Pride celebration following Horse Meat Disco; this set is Monday morning at 5am.
The respect I’ve received as an artist from all of the NYC promoters has been extraordinary. No doubt it’s the city that never sleeps, and love that I get to leave a mark on opposite sides of the bridge for NYC Pride!
Anything else?
I’m really looking forward to making my debut at the iconic FIP Pavilion for [FI Pines managing director] PJ McAteer on July 5th, expecting yet another epic and emotional moment with my boys!
This is all going to be amazing and exciting, congratulations! Okay in closing: what’s your best advice for a new DJ on the scene who wants to make it big?
Respect the craft, respect the history of the craft… and stay true to yourself, your sound and your health. It’s so easy to get caught up in the many snags of DJ culture. Partying can take over. Audience demands can sway your judgement, which could lead to compromising yourself or your sound. Longevity and success come from hard work, practice, dedication, humility, and a humble ego… and respect for those that came before us. I walked that walk, and if you pay close attention to those who have made it big, they are often quoted as mentioning those that paved the way.
The culture was birthed from a desperate need for community and belonging, and those that have added to its intricately-woven fabric are those that pioneered with love and proper intention, and the selfless commitment to making a dancefloor move. None of this started with paychecks and rider requirements. It started with a passion for a community of dancers and lovers. It grew from a desire to spread that vibration to as many people as possible under one groove. If the new DJs coming up can keep that knowledge and respect close to their hearts, they will go far… and make a difference along the way.
This hot young DJ can be found spinning one of Manhattan’s sexiest parties… behold Roman Sensation![Cover photo: Jeff Eason]
Thotyssey: Hi Roman, how are you doing today?
Roman Sensation: I’m doing good, how are you?
We’re doing great! Enjoying this nice change of seasons.
Same here! Trying to use the hot weather as my motivation to get myself to the gym now.
So as a hot DJ on the rise, has there been any specific music or artists that you’ve enjoyed playing or just listening to? Or is there anything coming up that you’re looking forward to hearing?
These days I have been listening to a lot of nostalgic 90s and early 2000s bops, but also have days where I just want to listen to Arca.
Love that! Are you going to any big concerts this spring or summer?
Yes! But I’m most excited to get out of the US and hit up some of the Euro festivals.
Tell us a bit about where your from, and how you ultimately became a DJ.
So I was born in New York, grew up in New Jersey. Then I moved back to New York at 19 and have been living here ever since.
I’ve been going to raves since I was a teen, and always feeling like, “wow, I want to do this one day, but different.” I purchased my first controller one day, started recording and studying all my mixes for errors… and that’s how I taught myself. I posted a mix on my SoundCloud and got discovered–and got my first major booking, which was Bubble_T. Tito Vida gave me that first opportunity that really put me on the map.
And what inspired your DJ name, by the way?
“Roman” is an alter ego I’ve always had inside of me; I had been using the name as my online / nightlife persona that then turned into Roman Sensation. It just sounded good.
Now tell us how you came into the circle of Papito Suave and the team behind “NSFW,” where you are a resident DJ today via the Hell’s Kitchen venue HUSH.
We met through mutual friends and I reached out to him one day, and I said “hey, I really wanna DJ your party.” At that time, the party had a full lineup of in-house DJs… but then one day he reached back out and booked me for it. That same night I was offered a residency, and of course I said yes!
“NSFW” returns to HUSH this week.
Yes! We’re there every other Friday!
How would you describe the night to someone unfamiliar?
I play the opening set upstairs, so I get to see the dance floor quickly fill up. I feel that what sets us apart is the people who come and show out. Whether you are dressed in leather, club wear, or in a suit… you will feel the sense of unity on the dance floor. It really feels great to be a part of a party where I can express myself visually and musically, with people who actually want to hear my sound which they can also relate to.
Is there anything else coming up for you?
I will be releasing a new mix, which I get asked about all the time. And as for gigs and projects… let’s just say you will be seeing a lot more of me!
Excellent! Okay, final question: with all that wild stuff that can happen right on the dance floor or in the dark corners of “NSFW”… do you ever get, um, distracted, lol?
Hmm… I would have to say wearing sunglasses helps me stay focused.
New episode of Thotyssey NYC & Red Eye Radio’s exclusive nightlife gossip / news podcast “Thotlight” hosted by Jim Silvestri & Freddie Cosmo out now, available on all major streaming platforms!
Thotyssey’s Jim Silvestri and co-host Freddie Cosmo present a weekly podcast taped live at Red NY discussing NYC queer nightlife news and gossip, featuring a new interview with a dynamic insider each week.
Jim reviews Robert Garcia and Jayse Vegas‘ Help, I’m In a Secret Relationship episode and recounts how he harassed Freddie during his DJ gig at VERS on Saturday.
Then it’s Brooklyn institution DJ Ickarus in the Thot Seat! We discuss their recent departure from the long-running show Dragnet, becoming equally iconic in Manhattan, Bushwigs past & future, their Jersey roots and how they broke into DJing & the ever-expanding BK nightlife; DJ etiquette, the Q drama, the Brooklyn Nightlife Awards versus the Glams and this Saturday’s epic Selena Fest!
In the news: the last alleged “roofie murder” gang member has been arrested; Thirst closed; Ted Arenas‘ wine bar is one step closer to opening; Florida technically “bans” The Rocky Horror Show; Sasha Colby wins Drag Race.
MONSTER: [upstairs] live music (3:30pm); [downstairs] Disco tea dance (4pm); [upstairs] Pianist Dan Daly (5pm); [upstairs] Pianist Kenny Allan Smith (10pm); [downstairs]FiFi DuBois & Brenda Dharling (11pm)
Want to unwind on Sundays after brunch with drinks and music and drag, not pay a fortune and still be home by Grown Folks Time? Cum to PLAYTHINGZ, an new Sunday daytime dance party (3-7pm) at Playhouse Bar in the West Village, with pop up shows from some of New York drag’s hottest new stars, care of Thotyssey NYC & Phil Chanel! Get all the deets here.
Thotyssey 