Summer of Rafferty

It’s all smelling like roses and success for event producer Brian Rafferty. Get a little insight into what it’s like to be one of the most successful producers in the business, and make sure to check out his events if you want to have an unforgettable summer!

It seems like the timing was perfect when you launched TRADE earlier this year, and it couldn’t be going better. How does TRADE differ from previous parties like Viva?
Trade is different from Viva in that it is an infusion of major international talent that is flown in every Saturday night. Basically we take international all-star DJs that are otherwise not so well known in NYC to give them a shot in the Big Apple with some of our best talent from NYC and the USA. It explores and showcases a wider range of musical talent.

What is it about your personal esthetic that has made you so successful all these years?
Personal esthetic that has made me so successful over the years is the practice of good business. Always investing more in quality DJs and production, and always being more than fair with talent/staff.
If you could trade places with anyone in nightlife for one day, who would it be and why?
Nightlife swap: A WE Party producer. Amazing stand-up brand that is thriving globally.

Another year, another Pride. Walk us through this year’s NYC official Pride events.
Two events that I founded with NYC Pride: Friday night Fantasy with DJs Scott Martin and Grind at the Diamond Horseshoe and the VIP Rooftop Party with Peter Napoli, Eddie Martinez and Paulo at Hudson Terrace. Saturday night is Masterbeat’s Graffiti at Hammerstein Ballroom with Mickey Friedman and Oscar Velazquez. Sunday is the NYC Pride Pier Dance.

Do you feel a sense of pressure to outdo yourself every Pride?
Sense of pressure to outdo myself every Pride? ABSOLUTELY. All of our events tend to sell out, but we still strive to book the best talent every year.

How far in advance do you plan these major events like Pride?
NYC Pride event planning starts in December/January.

Right after Pride, the party doesn’t stop as you take us to Provincetown for 4th of July. Tell me a little bit about the parties and what people can expect?
Provincetown will be a week-long celebration of events, from underwear parties to pool parties to one huge beach party all happening in one of the most adorable Cape Cod towns in Massachusetts with some of the top DJs from around the world.

What is a common public misconception about you?
A common misconception about me is that I only do nightlife. I’m an ER physician assistant too!

Do you have a favorite memory from one of your events this year?
Favorite memory would be looking up at the dance floor at Super Trade (Space Ibiza NY) to see a packed house of 1,400 people having an amazing time.

What’s next for you?
What’s next…now that’s my biggest secret! Loose lips sink tight ships. You’ll have to watch and see.

What does nightlife mean to you?
Nightlife to me means creating an unforgettable experience and an environment that allows the crowd to let their stresses of everyday life go.