NaeSketchie: The Latino American Titan of NYC Nightlife

Listening to Nae speak and share his story, I could feel the passion he pours into everything he does. It’s that undeniable drive that made me even more curious to keep listening and, ultimately, share his story with the world.

At the heart of New York’s Uptown nightlife stands a dominant force—NaeSketchie. Birth name Joel Molina, this Latino-American cultural powerhouse is more than just a nightlife impresario; he is the architect behind Uptown’s most exclusive experiences, seamlessly blending Latin and hip-hop culture into a thriving nightlife empire.

As the driving force behind Sketchie Entertainment Group—a leading hospitality, media, and marketing powerhouse—NaeSketchie has become the face of it all, setting trends, breaking barriers, and redefining what it means to experience the city’s most vibrant Latin cuisine, music, and events. With an unmistakable, fashion-forward presence, he has cemented himself as the ultimate go-to figure in NYC’s after-dark elite. Known for curating legendary events and hosting world-guests, his private gatherings attract A-list celebrities, chart-topping artists, and sports icons alike, solidifying his influence at the highest level of nightlife and culture.

Born in New York City and raised in the heart of the Bronx, where every block told a story and every corner pulsed with rhythm, Molina’s Dominican roots ran deep. For him, hip-hop wasn’t just music—it was the heartbeat of the streets, the graffiti on the walls, and the anthem of his rise. Hustling came naturally. By the time he was barely a teen, he was already making power moves, turning his sister’s apartment into a full-blown party hotspot. No flyers, no big names—just word of mouth and a vibe so electric that the whole block showed up, pure city style. That first taste of success wasn’t luck; it was the blueprint for the next 15 years.

Navigating the industry as a distinguished multidisciplinary entrepreneur and, at one point, a label executive, his influence extends far beyond high-profile parties. Notably, he played a key role in the filming of DJ Khaled, Anitta, and Fat Joe’s Uptown video. He has also frequently hosted global icon Travis Scott at his events, where the superstar engaged with the crowd and made appearances in the DJ booth. His impact is deeply woven into the fabric of New York’s nightlife scene.

Over the years, NaeSketchie has brought together some of the biggest names in music and sports. Artists such as Post Malone, Future, Nas, Cardi B, Central Cee, 21 Savage, Young Thug, Meek Mill, Rauw Alejandro, Offset, 50 Cent, Daddy Yankee, Arcángel, Tokischa, Zion, A Boogie, French Montana, Lil Uzi Vert, Yailin La Más Viral, Becky G, Natti Natasha, Farruko, Anuel AA, and more are frequently spotted at his events. Additionally, athletes including Stefon Diggs, LeSean McCoy, José Reyes, Aaron Judge, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Carmelo Anthony, and MVP pitcher of the year Luis Gil from the New York Yankees have attended his events. His network is unparalleled, solidifying his status as the ultimate tastemaker in Uptown’s nightlife scene.

The nightlife architect played a key role when Bad Bunny and Ozuna made their highly anticipated debut in New York’s nightlife, collaborating closely with Latin music icon DJ Lobo—an influential DJ and entrepreneur with whom Molina has built a strong, long-standing relationship.

His exclusive private events for major artists, including Drake, highlight his extensive network and powerful connections within the industry. As NaeSketchie puts it, “Not just anyone can be or get around Drake.” His ongoing collaboration with DJ Spade—a top-tier New York City DJ affiliated with Drake’s OVO team, who first introduced NaeSketchie to the global superstar—further cements his influential presence in both the Latin and hip-hop communities. This partnership is a testament to NaeSketchie’s deep-rooted influence in both worlds, solidifying his status as a key figure in shaping New York’s nightlife.

So, what’s the secret to NaeSketchie’s enduring success?

It goes beyond his commanding presence and bold fashionista style—it’s his futurist mindset that foresaw the importance of creating cultural bridges between the Afro American community and Latinos in nightlife and his unmatched approach to a great TEAM, hospitality and business. In an industry often marked by shallow transactions, NaeSketchie stands apart as a genuine partner, not just a promoter. His approach rooted in respect and collaboration. As he explains, “Promoters are the unsung architects of the music industry, yet they rarely receive the recognition they deserve. The reality is, most artists rely on club runs to amplify their music—but who’s making that happen? Yes, DJs spin the records, but who’s booking the DJs? It’s not the owners. Owners contact us based on our proven track record, influence, and dominance in the entertainment business. They know that we—elite hospitality leaders—get the job done, driving top-tier production and generating massive revenue for the venue.

Look at every thriving venue across the globe—what do they all have in common? A powerhouse hospitality and entertainment group fueling their success. We don’t just fill rooms; we build movements, elevate brands, and transform venues into cultural hubs. That’s why I’m not just a promoter—I’m a strategic partner, forging lasting alliances and creating game-changing opportunities for everyone involved”.

NaeSketchie’s partnerships are built on mutual respect, elite business acumen, and a long-term vision that sets him apart in the nightlife industry. He’s not just booking events—he’s orchestrating experiences, curating high-caliber collaborations that drive culture and elevate every brand involved. His ability to create impactful, mutually beneficial alliances has solidified his status as a powerhouse, shaping the very fabric of New York’s nightlife.

Beyond nightlife, NaeSketchie has become a cultural bridge in the music industry. He’s played a key role in facilitating collaborations between Latin and hip-hop’s most iconic artists, including Moneybagg Yo, El Alfa, Rauw Alejandro, Quavo, Rowdy Rebel, Yovng Chimi, and many more. His influence extends into fine dining, where he curates exclusive experiences for clients and celebrities. Partnering with popular restaurants like Sei Less in downtown New York, he provides artists with a unique experience, whether they’re celebrating a record release or simply enjoying a night out with friends.he continued rise to prominence is a testament to his undeniable impact on New York’s nightlife and music scenes. As a tastemaker, connector, and cultural force, he remains the name everyone’s talking about in Uptown.

 How do you determine which artists or DJs to book? 

“Well, most of these artists come to my events for the experience. They’ve heard so much about Uptown, so when they’re thinking, ‘Where are we going tonight?’ my name comes up. When I do book an artist, it’s usually because they can bring in revenue or help build a solid relationship. Sometimes, though, we don’t make money booking certain artists because their fees can be so high. When it comes to DJs, I focus on those who are the best in New York and have a strong reputation that can draw a crowd. It’s crucial that the DJ has a following, especially since some of them charge a lot. Hahahah.”

You love fashion, and let’s say fashion and nightlife—how do you feel about those two, and what makes them important in your life? 

Fashion tells my story, and nightlife gives me the platform to create unforgettable experiences. Together, these two powerful elements allow me to connect with people in a way that is both unique and impactful. Nightlife has introduced me to incredible individuals and opened doors to amazing opportunities, but it’s my style that makes a statement the moment I walk into a room. People instantly take notice and ask, “Who’s that?” or say, “That’s Nae, the big Latin guy.” It’s funny, but with that recognition also comes criticism. Still, I embrace it all—love, peace, and everything in between.

It’s hard to put into words without sounding all over the place, but my passion for both fashion and nightlife runs deep. They fuel my vision, drive my ambitions, and give me the platform to build meaningful connections. That’s why my team and I launched community initiatives that truly make a difference, like our annual Christmas toy drive for children in need and a Thanksgiving turkey drive for families struggling during the holidays. This past year, I gave away 2,000 toys at my Sketchie Big Toy Drive, an event I now host annually. We also distributed over 5,000 turkeys in collaboration with the Patrol Borough of Manhattan North, ensuring families had food on their tables during the holiday season.

It’s a great time in my life, man—I really can’t complain.

Do you have something BIG planned for this coming YEAR?

Absolutely! We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our sister club to Maraca NYC—IKON New York. Maraca NYC has been our go-to hotspot, and with IKON New York, we’re taking the nightlife experience to the next level. Expect unparalleled events, top-tier entertainment, and an elevated dining experience. This will be something truly special.

Final Thoughts 

His signature look has left a lasting impression, not only in fashion but also in setting the tone for his events. NaeSketchie strives to create a vibe that embodies class, sexiness, and beauty. “It’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone can look and feel their best,” he says. His events have become synonymous with style, energy, and exclusivity, drawing in a crowd eager to experience the unique atmosphere he creates. For over 15 years, NaeSketchie has maintained his place at the top of an industry known for being competitive and unforgiving. His ability to evolve while maintaining a strong, consistent presence is a testament to his resilience and work ethic. His influence on New York’s nightlife scene is undeniable, and it’s clear his impact will continue for years to come.

In a world where trends come and go, NaeSketchie is not just part of the scene—he is the scene.