The University of Arizona has a reputation for its nightlife.  Loud music, strobe lights, and students coming together to have a great night as the DJ plays their favorite music. 

That’s where Aidan Feldman thrives.

He began his journey as a DJ his junior year and since then has built a business around helping other student DJs book shows at local venues.

Feldman founded Fetty Entertainment in August 2023 to make money while in school. 

By February 2024, “I had my first gig at Fuku Sushi here in Tucson. That gig was one of the best days of my life, and really was the start of everything,” he said.

Now, he’s growing his business, helping aspiring DJs on campus get gigs at popular local venues, including Gentle Ben’s and No Anchovies and planning bar crawls and theme nights at local bars.

Collaboration

A big part of his job is helping busy students find work in Tucson’s nightlife. For example, on Saturday nights at Fuku Sushi, at least three DJs spin the decks at a packed house on University Avenue.

Alex Bronkala, also known as Bronk, is a UA student with a passion for house music. Feldman has booked him multiple gigs at bars including Gentle Ben’s, Fuku Sushi and The Blind Pig. 

Their partnership has allowed Bronkala to get his name out in the UA community and network with important people in the EDM and bar community, he said.

“What really stands out is how well organized [Fetty Entertainment]’s events are and how every detail is carefully managed to ensure everything runs smoothly,” he said.

Sophia Wellman, another DJ who has partnered with Fetty Entertainment, said the work has helped her expand her influence in the DJ community. She now plays at bars such as No Anchovies and Fuku Sushi on behalf of Fetty Entertainment.

“Being able to play at the fun events that he’s hosted has helped me gain experience, build my confidence and really connect with the local EDM scene here in Tucson,” she said.

She has witnessed Fetty Entertainment grow from the ground up, she said, and appreciates Feldman’s hard work as a DJ and a business owner. 

Creating Success

Feldman said a big part of his success is knowing how to sell himself. 

He generates strong pitches to bars to secure an event. These pitches have to have depth and convince owners that they can benefit from his presence, he said. He has to paint a picture of success in their minds that is believable and has legs.

A member of Relentless Beats, the lead EDM entertainment business in Arizona, told him to treat every pitch like a ship, he said. 

“You have to either patch a hole in a boat as it’s leaking, or you have to add another sail to that ship to make it move faster,” Feldman said. 

He focuses on how he can add value for bars and other venues and create great memories with fellow students and continue to grow his community.

Expansion

Feldman’s success in Tucson has also helped him branch out to Texas, his home state. In his hometown of Houston, he has organized shows for himself and other local artists. He said it’s rewarding to put on events in the city where he grew up.

 In March, he booked a show in Mexico for the first time at the popular beach destination Puerto Peñasco, known to many students as Rocky Point. He partnered with Tap a Keg a Day, which plans spring break parties, to bring students an immersive experience and expand Fetty’s outreach. 

For now, he said doesn’t plan to expand beyond Arizona, Texas and Mexico.

For more information about Fetty and future events, visit his Instagram.

Arizona Sonoran News is a news service of the University of Arizona School of Journalism.