OBITUARY David Mancuso, DJ & Pioneer of NYC Underground Club Scene, Dies at 72

David Mancuso meets with the SoHo Artists' Association in New York on October 14, 1974.

David Mancuso, DJ and founder of New York City's legendary invite-only parties, later known as The Loft, has died. He was 72.

Mancuso pioneered the idea of underground private parties in New York in the early 1970s as an alternative the the city's commercial nightclub scene. After launching his first major loft party called "Love Saves The Day" in 1970, his events quickly took off and became a haven for exciting dance music in the city.

In 2005, Mancuso was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame.

Craig Shifty, owner of Kid Recordings, posted to Facebook on Monday (Nov. 14) announcing Mancuso's death.

"David was more than just a seminal, influential and elusive figure in the development of DJing and NYC underground club culture, he was FAMILY - a friend and mentor," Shifty wrote. "My heart is broken. He will GREATLY missed but, thankfully, he left the world a lasting vibrant legacy that continues to inspire and influence countless generations of music lovers and clubbers...and what a gift that is!!"