Ricardo Tavares, originally from Rio, Brazil, established himself in New York City's vibrant nightlife after moving there in 1994. A professional DJ since the late 1990s, he founded the monthly party series HARDER in 2015, known for its electronic sound spanning house and techno. HARDER cultivates a queer, sex-positive atmosphere, hosting events in New York City at venues like The Chocolate Factory and 3 Dollar Bill, and expanding to cities including San Francisco, Chicago, and Berlin. Tavares's sets are characterized by a driving, underground energy, reflecting his deep roots in classic club culture. His consistent curation and dedication to fostering inclusive dancefloors position him as a significant figure in the global queer electronic music scene.