Bob
How long have you and Mitch been working together?
Technically when I started working at The Monster a little over two years ago. He hired me as a promoter, but we didn’t work together creatively until the song “Purse First” (available in iTunes).
“Purse First” was a phenomenon that took over the gay scene. How was the writing process?
First I came up with the concept for the song, then I mentioned to Mitch that I really wanted to write it with him, and I tried my best to describe what the song sounds like in my head. Then he added his own flair, and the rest is HERstory.
Are you working on any music right now?
We have a project that we are looking to finish before Halloween, and I don’t wanna ruin it, but she gonna be cute.
What is The Only Bloodbath…a party, a show?
Girl, this is an EXPERIENCE! You’re going to have me, Kim Chi and about 15 of NYC’s best drag queens and promoters. I also think you are witnessing the dawn of a new team of promoters. I am so excited to get to work with Mitch on this and future projects.
Mitch
When did you first meet Bob?
I randomly met with a friend at Barracuda one night a few years back. I thought I was in for just another drag show, and, like the rest of NYC (and eventually the world), I was blown away by the genius level of comedy and performance that was being brought to the stage by Bob the Drag Queen. I introduced myself after the show, and eventually we started working together when the opportunities presented themselves.
How long have you been working in nightlife?
I started working at The Monster as a barback in November of 2007, so it’s been a while! I’ve had the privilege of working there in the heart of the West Village where gay pride began. The Monster is one of the most iconic gay venues in the world. It has something for everyone and demands that you leave any pretentiousness at the door. It’s from an era that was before the Internet and understands that at their core, people want to go out and actually meet and speak with other gay people. The owner, Charlie Rice, and GM Italo Lopez understand that, and that’s why after 35 years it’s still successful and busy seven nights a week to this day.
You’ve been promoting parties there for a few years, yes?
Yes, I started about four or five years ago with MANSTER Saturdays, a party that pays homage to the Monster’s core values: acceptance of everyone, good music, great drinks and two floors of fun. Now I also co-produce a Friday night party called Kwir (Queer) with Yamil X.
You’re quickly gaining fame as a DJ and producer thanks to the success of projects like “Purse First.” When did DJing and production become a big part of your career?
I’ve always had a musical background. I played the alto saxophone and some piano as a kid. Then flash forward to bartending in the disco at The Monster. After about four or five years of watching and listening to what really got people to go bananas on the dance floor, I found myself collecting dance music and imagining myself taking control of the DJ booth. From there I taught myself how to DJ and then eventually produce music.
Now you’re also producing parties outside of The Monster?
Yes, it started when Bob had the idea to do The Only Viewing Party at The Highline Ballroom. I organized the event, and it was such a nice time, and people really seemed to love it. From there Bob and I have created The Only Production Company, where we will be producing a wide array of things from music and events to videos, etc.
So Bloodbath is coming to us from “The Only”?
Yes, it’s another party from The Only. It’s going to be really amazing. We’re giving away $3,000 for best costume. Bob the Drag Queen and Kim Chi will be headlining. There will be performances from Bob, Pixie Aventura and Dusty Ray Bottoms. There will also be about 15 other legendary NYC queens hosting the event. To top it all off, we have one of NYC’s own biggest DJ’s, DJ Dawson, who will keep the floor hot all night. It’s a dance party, it’s a show, it’s a costume contest, and it’s going to be an immersive experience. It’s really The Only thing to do on Halloween weekend!
Bob the Drag Queen & The Only
Productions
Present:
The Only Bloodbath
Sunday,
October 30 at Copacabana
268 W 47th St. (8th Ave)
Tickets at
theonlybloodbath.com
Purse First is available for download on iTunes and all major multimedia outlets.
