Discover the Visionaries Behind System Error: A Conversation on Craft, Community, and the Future of Underground Nightlife
Los Angeles boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, but the emergence of independent promoters like System Error is taking the city’s underground culture to exciting new heights. Founded by Tony Merino and Shailee Ben-David, both seasoned veterans with a passion for community-building and daring creativity, System Error is making a significant impact on LA’s music landscape.
For Tony and Shai, System Error transcends merely hosting spectacular parties; it’s about making a lasting impression in a music industry that often prioritizes mainstream success over artistic authenticity. Leveraging their extensive experience in both corporate and independent sectors, they have developed a distinctive approach to event production that merges high-quality execution with an underground, intimate atmosphere. Over the past three years, the duo has steadfastly upheld their core principle: placing music and community above all else.
As System Error prepares for its next chapter in 2025, Tony and Shai’s dedication to the underground scene remains their primary motivator. We were eager to sit down with them to explore their insights. Whether collaborating with innovative artists or crafting experiences that challenge the norms of traditional nightlife, their future appears bright. It’s clear: this is just the beginning.
Hey Tony and Shai, thank you for joining us today! Let’s reflect on the inception of your journey. Before System Error was established, what motivated you to create one of LA’s most sought-after underground nightlife brands?
Tony: Our individual journeys are unique, but they converge in our mutual love for cultivating communities, a strong grasp of the industry’s various facets, and a willingness to take risks. Coupled with a passion for uplifting emerging talent, this synergy forms an unstoppable force. Our perspectives on event production and the intentions behind our work align closely, whether it’s for a festival with 20,000 attendees or an underground rave for 1,000; our mission remains unchanged.
Shai: The concept of System Error was something we envisioned before we became independent promoters. Recognizing our exceptional chemistry in advancing the underground scene made it a natural step to turn our vision into reality.
During the pandemic, many were held back, yet you seized the opportunity to create System Error. What inspired you to launch during such uncertain times for the music industry?
Tony: The synergy we experienced while working with Shai on Insomniac’s Bassrush brand was pivotal. That period was marked by a distinctive style and energy that only we could bring. Thus, during the pandemic, it made perfect sense to harness that synergy and establish something of our own. System Error serves as our creative outlet, allowing us to express our love for music and offer something meaningful to the community.
Shai: I learned the intricacies of event production from Tony. As we transitioned from our previous employer, it was a given that we would collaborate to realize our vision for System Error. Personally, COVID pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and explore new concepts, making it an exciting time to nurture our ideas.
Tony, having led Bassrush, what lessons have you integrated into your approach at System Error?
Tony: I’ve always admired their knack for executing consistently high-quality events on a grand scale. Although we operate as a boutique independent crew, I’ve adapted those lessons to reflect the intimate and intentional nature of our brand. Every detail, from production to our curated music programming, receives meticulous attention. Our aim is to uphold that same commitment to high-quality experiences while embracing the unique underground spirit of our work.
After three years at System Error, you have shown remarkable dedication to underground artists and the community. How do you intend to sustain your momentum and elevate the standards for the local scene?
Tony: By showing up every day and putting our best foot forward. Hosting events is challenging, especially in a competitive market like LA, which drives us to continually raise the bar. Our focus remains on doing what we love, collaborating with artists and teams that resonate with our vision, and creating events that foster cultural impact. While maintaining momentum is crucial, I’ve learned to embrace the process, remain present, and enjoy the journey of building something special for our community.
Shai: From my perspective, the best way to maintain momentum is to continue being a launchpad for underground artists who often lack early opportunities due to metrics and ticket sales. We believe in the music and will continue to book artists and collaborate with teams that share our ethos. Staying true to our craft and purpose is essential, and I don’t foresee us losing sight of that.
Shai, many women in the music industry, myself included, admire your achievements. What advice would you give to women aspiring to succeed in this field?
Shai: Be authentic, and don’t let anyone dull your sparkle or passion for your work. Although the industry is male-dominated, many women will support you and help you navigate this landscape. It’s vital to believe in yourself because, ultimately, no one will advocate for you like you will. I’ve found that connecting with other women has made my journey feel safer during challenging times. Building community is crucial, and there’s a vibrant one for women in music!
Reflecting on an incredibly successful year, what moment—personal or professional—stands out to you from this year at System Error? What made it significant?
Tony: This year, I realized that we’ve emerged as one of LA’s leading independent promoters—a growth made possible by the incredible community that has rallied around us. Knowing our efforts facilitate connections and bring people together fuels my motivation, even amid challenges. I’m profoundly thankful for the chance to engage each day with people I admire. The 16-year-old version of me, standing outside clubs with flyers and dreams, could never have envisioned this journey.
Shai: For me, the highlight was Hyperdub’s 20 Year Anniversary and collaborating with Kode9. As a long-time fan of the label and Burial, working closely with them to represent their legacy in the U.S. felt like an honor. It was a moment that confirmed we were doing exactly what I always envisioned: being recognized by those who paved the way for dance music.
If you had to encapsulate the essence of System Error in a single sentence to intrigue someone unfamiliar with it, what would you say?
Tony: In a city as saturated as LA, System Error offers a distinct underground vibe that feels refreshing.
Shai: System Error stands at the forefront of underground dance music, community, and culture.
The buzz is that you’re working on exciting new developments for System Error in 2025. Can you share any hints with your fans about what’s coming next?
Tony: Stay tuned at @SystemErrorLive. DM us if you want to get involved!
Shai: I can’t reveal too much, but we’re aiming for a larger curated experience for the city.
