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For the XM music channel, see The Loft (XM).

The Loft is the location for the first underground dance party (Love Saves the Day) that was created by David Mancuso on February 14, 1970. Since then, the term The Loft has come to represent Mancuso's own version of a non-commercial party where no alcohol, food, or beverages are sold.

Mancuso's vision of a private party is similar to, and inspired by the most basic parties of all: the rent party and house party. In fact, Fred Wesley's "House Party" is a quintessential Loft Classic which Mancuso featured on his out-of-print compilation "David Mancuso presents the Loft Vol. 2". This is, in fact, one of the most important differences between The Loft and a typical nightclub. His parties are by invitation only and feature an audiophile sound system to enhance the experience. Loft parties also include free beverages, munchies, and hot food. Equally important is the relaxed "non-authoritarian" vibe, including, when possible, a BYOB policy, as well as a truly diverse cross-section of music lovers and dancers. Of particular note in the late 1960's, when Mancuso threw his first informal house parties, was that the gay community was often harassed in the bars and dance clubs, whereas at The Loft and many other early, private discotheques they could dance together and be themselves without fear of police action, thanks to Mancuso's legal yet underground business model. The Loft concept was borrowed by many nightclub entrepreneurs, and Mancuso is indirectly responsible for the success of The Gallery, the Paradise Garage, and The Saint, to name but a few.

• David Mancuso's Loft parties
• Tim Lawrence's Village Voice article.