From overcoming COVID-19 pandemic challenges to bringing world-class talent to Texas, NRG Music Events has quickly made its mark on the DFW electronic dance music scene. Founded by Raul Sarmiento in 2022, NRG emerged when live music was coming back, seizing the opportunity to curate top-tier trance and techno events. We sat down with Raul to learn more about the story behind NRG, its dual brands - TRANCEPORTAL and INTELLECT - and how their commitment to world-class production has redefined the Texas EDM community.
EDM Texas: You moved to Dallas from Los Angeles in 2019 to pursue your corporate career, but soon after, you founded NRG Music Events! Can you tell us how that transition from the corporate world sparked your passion for curating music events?
Raul: I transitioned into a corporate job seven years ago to support my family after the birth of my first child. Before that, I worked at startups like RaveReady.com and Clubstyle, where I manufactured clubwear. The transition was easy for me because I always had a passion for hosting events and had previous experience.
EDM Texas: What gaps did you notice in the DFW electronic music community, and how did that influence your vision for curating talent that resonates with the fans here?
Raul: I needed help finding trance and techno shows I wanted to attend. The city leans heavily towards bass and house, which is excellent for those who enjoy it, but it wasn’t my vibe.
EDM Texas: In 2022, despite the pandemic's challenges, you, Ryan Mcleod, and your sister, Erika, turned your vision into reality with the founding of NRG Music Events! Can you walk us through that pivotal year and how the collaboration with Ryan and Erika shaped the brand’s early success?
Raul: The first two events were just Ryan and I, as we threw a couple of underground warehouse parties with Triceratops and Arctic Moon. We started gaining real traction, and my sister saw the potential, quickly stepping in to help bring our vision to life. Our third event, featuring Billie Gillies, put us on the map in DFW. We sold out the Ridglea Room in Fort Worth; the rest is history from there!
EDM Texas: One of the standout elements of NRG Music Events is your TRANCEPORTAL brand, which has brought global trance legends like Bryan Kearney, Simon Patterson, and John Askew to Texas! What inspired you to focus on trance, and how did you secure such renowned artists for your events?
Raul: Trance music is my passion! It’s such a unique genre that connects people worldwide in a way no other genre can. I’ve even traveled to Europe to attend specific trance festivals. I’ve also been DJing in the scene since 2008. During that time, I had the privilege of meeting and performing alongside many of my favorite artists. In Trance, We Trust!
EDM Texas: In addition to TRANCEPORTAL, you also launched INTELLECT, a subdivision focused on techno that caters to a different audience. What motivated you to branch into techno?
Raul: I’m excited about our INTELLECT project and bringing this to the DFW scene. Right now, the brand features a lot of neo-rave and hard techno, but I’m working to get proper underground techno into the mix soon. Bring back the roots of the underground rave scene!
EDM Texas: How do you balance these two worlds while keeping both audiences engaged? What strategies do you use to ensure each event feels unique yet part of the more prominent NRG brand?
Raul: It’s not easy, but we’ve gained incredible support for both brands. What’s fascinating is seeing how, while each crowd may be a small sample of supporters, they are entirely different. I aim to represent both brands and throw an event, each with their own stage. That’s something I’m excited to bring to life!
EDM Texas: NRG Music Events is known for its exceptional production quality, thanks to partnerships with companies like Dream Beam Lasers and Daisy One World! How do these collaborations enhance the overall attendee experience, and what role does high-quality production play in creating memorable events?
Raul: Dream Beam Lasers have been with us since Day One, and we take great pride in the unique production value we bring to each event. No two events are ever the same, thanks to the creative team of Peter and Jacob, who can transform the same venue into entirely new experiences every time. Daisy One World joined our events when I discovered my friend Brialice was the company’s President. I’ve always believed in adding extra production to our events, stunning visuals or on-stage performances, and her team has delivered! It’s been a pleasure collaborating with them.
EDM Texas: How does your commitment to high production quality differentiate NRG from other promoters in the Texas music scene, and what impact does this level of detail have on the overall event experience?
Raul: I research shows here and in LA, watching the latest productions and creative ideas. Recently, we introduced our 360-degree stages, with incredible strobe lighting, to create a more intimate and intense experience. You have to be there!
EDM Texas: What are your and your team’s plans for expanding NRG Music Events’ reach and growing your fanbase in the future? Are there any upcoming plans or teasers for future shows?
Raul: This life isn’t easy. It’s a constant grind, taking wins and losses, like any other business. But our passion for what we do keeps us going, and we’re fully committed to pushing the boundaries of our scene. We’re gearing up to bring our city new and unique experiences. I also want to take a moment to thank some incredible people who have been crucial to our journey: Alyssa Barrientos, Braden Buchanan, Brian Podhajsky, Alejandro Quintanilla, Felicity Garcia, Bakari Deal, Danny Ho, and so many more. You all know who you are! I’m deeply grateful, especially to our supporters. We wouldn’t be here without you!
Raul Sarmiento’s vision and passion, backed by his team’s dedication, have transformed NRG Music Events into a powerhouse in the Texas trance and techno scene. NRG continues to shape the local community and push boundaries through top-tier talent, immersive productions, and a commitment to elevating trance and techno. As they look toward the future, the journey is far from over. Stay tuned for their upcoming events, and follow NRG Music Events as they continue to raise the bar and redefine the Texas dance music experience.
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