Adair

You are very much a community organizer: Ladies First, Communion, Sweet Circuit, Haute Sauce, Buckin’, and now overseeing programming at the queer-owned Saint James Libations!

How did the idea of creating these spaces get planted?

When I first moved to Brooklyn in 2015, there weren’t many consistent queer and POC-centered nightlife options. Brooklyn Boihood and Papi Juice were throwing amazing, community-focused events, but they tended to be monthly. That left me looking for more regular programming and ways to meet other queer people in Brooklyn.

One night, my friend Van and I went to a screening of Rafiki, a queer Kenyan film, at BAM. The theater was full of queer POC I had never seen before. It was beautiful to witness and be part of that shared experience. I realized there are plenty of us out here—we just needed more spaces to convene. So, I decided to start creating those spaces myself.

What drives you to do the work of creating community?

I love bringing queer people together to experience joy. Seeing people meet new friends, lovers, and chosen family in the spaces I create is so rewarding. Providing a place where folks can feel safe, come as they are, and forget the chaos of the world for a while truly warms my heart.

How did you get into DJing, and what makes you passionate about it?

I had always been interested in DJing, but when I started throwing events, I couldn’t afford to pay a DJ—so I decided to learn myself. What I love most about DJing is the energy exchange between the crowd and me. Feeling the room’s energy and finding a way to take people on a sonic journey we can all appreciate is a beautiful experience. It’s different every time, and I love that.

How has your relationship to style and self-presentation evolved alongside your journey as a DJ and curator?

My relationship to style has shifted constantly to align with where I am in life. As a trans man, things have evolved significantly since I first started DJing. Coming into alignment with my trans identity and building more trust in myself—as both a DJ and curator—has gone hand in hand.

My personal style reflects that confidence. I usually go for a utilitarian base with a statement piece thrown in. I like to be comfortable and wear quality items with a great fit that make me feel strong and confident. I especially love brands like Kirrin Finch, who really embody that balance.

What’s an outfit you will not be repeating?

I once wore a polka dot short-sleeve button-down to my brother’s engagement party. Looking back, the polka dots were way too big, the colors clashed, and the fit was awkward. Normally I wouldn’t think twice about an outfit, but since it was an engagement party, there’s so much photo evidence—I’ll never forget it.

If you could tell your past self one thing about your present, what would it be?

I’d say: just go for it. Try everything and follow your joy. We’re on the right path and exactly where we’re supposed to be. Everything you want is possible with patience and discipline.

What do you want your legacy in Brooklyn nightlife and queer community building to be?

I’d like to be known for creating spaces where queer people come together, learn from one another, find community, and feel safe. I want to be remembered for providing queer creatives opportunities to share their art, and for inspiring people to follow their joy.

I also hope to encourage balance—enjoying nightlife while making intentional choices to care for the mind, body, and spirit. I aim to do something good for my body every single day—whether that’s exercising, meditating, or cooking a nourishing meal. I strive to lead by example and inspire others to do the same.

What’s the song you know will get the party going at the Kirrin Finch 10-Year Anniversary?

We’re in Brooklyn, so I’ll always honor the vibrance and energy the Caribbean community has blessed us with.

Song: Shake It to the Max by Moliy, Shenseea, Silent Addy, and Skillibeng.