Ty Sunderland

Ty Sunderland is a DJ, event producer, and entrepreneur who, as Kim Petras told BuzzFeed this year, “throws the best parties in New York.” As he describes his work, “I’m grateful to produce events and spaces for the LGBTQ community to come and feel that they [have] a space to be themselves and meet other people like themselves. I also get to make music and give people a moment to let go and dance.”

Sunderland has had some big music moments in 2023. In a career milestone, “I remixed for Kelly Clarkson, and it’s included on her deluxe album, which is truly insane for me to even type,” notes Sunderland, referring to “Mine” on Clarkson’s Chemistry. He’s also served as a bartender on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen.

Sunderland is busier than ever spinning for events, which range from Coachella to Planet Pride, the largest event in New York City's Pride season. He throws a regular Sunday party in Brooklyn, Ty Tea, and is on call for celebs like Janet Jackson for late-night fetes. The broader gay internet world will know his Gayflower boat parties; Sunderland went viral in 2021 for revealing a “demon twink” wreaked havoc at one outing.

It’s been so busy this year, “I think my biggest obstacle was learning how to play for so many different crowds,” he says. “It’s been a great learning experience and has made me a better DJ.”

At present, Sunderland is working on his debut EP, which “I’m really excited to share with everyone.” As a gay artist, he also stresses the need for the LGBTQ+ movement to mobilize in the face of attacks.

“Equality for the LGBTQ community didn’t and doesn’t stop at marriage equality,” Sunderland stresses. “There’s still a lot [of] work to be done, we just have to continue to stay organized. Especially now more than ever.” @tysunderland