The Nexus Lounge Miami’s Hercules Space was amplified by the presence of DJ Richard Fraioli, a seasoned artist with over 20 years of DJ experience. This year, Richard is celebrating his 17th consecutive appearance at the iconic Ultra Music Festival. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of music.
Richard’s journey began at the tender age of nine in Boston, where he was first exposed to the infectious rhythms of disco and techno through his father, a fellow DJ. The vibrant beats captivated him, and before long, Richard found himself spinning on his first set of turntables, a gift from his father who recognized the spark within him. This early exposure laid the foundation for a career that would see him perform at over 300 venues worldwide.
Richard reminisced about the pivotal moments that shaped his career. “The first time I came here was 2003… went to my first club, Nikki Beach. Then it was all up from there,” he recounted with a nostalgic glow. His journey through the music world is marked by pivotal encounters and performances alongside DJ legends like Laidback Luke and Louie DeVito. It’s a journey that took him from Boston’s local gigs to the international stage, with residencies across the United States.
Despite the glamour of his experiences, Richard remains grounded and focused on the essence of his craft. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, particularly with technological advancements in the DJ world. “I love how it’s evolved, how it’s made my life a lot easier,” Richard shared. Yet, he stresses the importance of understanding the roots of DJing, encouraging up-and-coming artists to “do your homework.”
One can’t help but feel the infectious enthusiasm Richard exudes as he discusses his upcoming projects, including his latest tracks, “Take Me Up” and “Stay Here.” These tracks are testaments to his evolving artistry and dedication to providing unforgettable vibes. With each set, Richard aims to create an atmosphere where attendees can lose themselves to the music and leave with cherished memories. This philosophy is central to his purpose as an artist: “My purpose in life is to provide… vibes, music, gatherings, and everybody leave happy. With memories.”
Richard’s story is not just one of personal success but also of collaboration and connection. He thrives on the universal language of music, enabling people from around the world to come together and share in the extraordinary experience of dance. As he prepares for his next set at the Ultra Music Festival, Richard embodies the spirit of Miami Music Week — one of excitement, innovation, and unity.
