Miami Nightclub Mogul Takes Credit for Bad Bunny and Drake Friendship in Tell-All Book
David Grutman, a renowned figure in America's nightlife scene, has asserted that he was the catalyst behind the friendship and collaboration between music superstars Bad Bunny and Drake. In his new self-help book, Take It Personal: How to Succeed by Building Relationships and Playing the Long Game, the 51-year-old entrepreneur details how this star-studded introduction transformed his career trajectory.
From Bartender to Business Tycoon
Grutman, who owns popular venues like LIV clubs and Komodo restaurants across the United States, shares his journey from bartending to becoming a hospitality mogul. He emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, a theme central to his book, which is set for release on April 14.
The Fateful Introduction
According to a preview obtained by USA Today, Grutman recounts meeting Bad Bunny and immediately recognizing his potential. Shortly after, during a dinner with Drake in Miami while the Canadian rapper was recording his album Scorpion, Grutman recommended Bad Bunny as the most exciting new artist. He urged Drake to contact Bad Bunny's manager for a collaboration.
The next day, Bad Bunny and his team flew to Miami, but initial plans were delayed due to Drake's last-minute recording session. Eventually, Drake invited Bad Bunny to dinner at Grutman's restaurant, Komodo, where the two artists connected instantly and decided to record a song together.
The Hit Song and Live Performance
The collaboration resulted in the single "MÍA," which, although not included on Scorpion, was released later and debuted at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Bad Bunny's first top 10 hit. Grutman later suggested that Bad Bunny join Drake on stage during a rescheduled concert in Miami, leading to the song's first live performance, which thrilled the audience.
"It was one of those moments that reminded me why I do what I do," Grutman said, reflecting on the event.
Ongoing Collaborations and Business Ventures
The introduction sparked a lasting friendship between Drake and Bad Bunny, with public support through concert appearances, social media shout-outs, and song lyrics. In 2023, they collaborated again on Drake's song "Gently" for his album For All the Dogs.
This connection also benefited Grutman professionally. After facilitating discussions between Bad Bunny and an executive at Live Nation, Bad Bunny proposed opening a restaurant together. Grutman agreed, leading to the launch of Gekko, a Japanese steakhouse in Miami, in August 2022. The restaurant remains operational today, and Grutman has maintained his friendship with Bad Bunny, even appearing in his Super Bowl halftime show in February.
The Power of Networking
Grutman concludes that this experience underscores the value of bringing people together without expectations. "For me, it wasn't just about launching a successful spot; it was about what it represented," he wrote. "A connection that started with no expectations, just a desire to help someone grow, had led to something beautiful. That's the power of bringing people together for no reason other than to see what might happen when you do."
