From “Jersey Shore” And His Own “Project,” Pauly D Celebrates Shrine’s Birthday On The Turntables

Tonight I learned that Pauly D is a man after my own heart.

“It all starts with the sneakers,” the “Jersey Shore” and “Pauly D Project” star says during the quick media availability inside the MGM Grand theater. “Then the rest follows.”

I hear ya!

We were inside the theater lobby because a sold out crowd had taken over the casino floor outside the club, each person hoping to get a glimpse of the guy who made “cabs are here” part of our everyday language.

As I walked from the parking garage elevator into the casino, the line started almost right around the corner and continued around the casino perimeter up to Shrine’s hefty doors.

I’ve covered quite a few of these events, and I’m STILL trying to wrap my head around how big that crowd was.

But back to the man of the hour, Mr. Yeah Buddy himself.

I was a little apprehensive because I haven’t had many pleasant experiences with “Jersey Shore” cast members in the past, but Pauly D was very enjoyable, and funny! In our brief time with him he discussed season 6 of “Jersey Shore” where he referred to a “preggers” Snookie, his single and upcoming album as well as his new pre game cocktail REMIX.

And yes, he actually said “Yeah buddy!” at least once.

After a few minutes he and his head of security thanked everyone and politely excused themselves because it was time for him to DJ.

This is where things got crazy.

I could hardly move as I got closer to the dance floor, and the area in front of a VIP area where they had built a special DJ booth for Pauly D.

He wasn’t the only one drawing attention though, DJ Biggie, Ryan Labbe, JROC and other “Pauly D Project” cast members were also at Shrine sampling some of the Connecticut night life.

I was pleasantly surprised with how nice they all were, very open to a quick picture, JROC, a marketing executive in Las Vegas, even gave me a high five.

Also floating around in the crowd was Albie Mazno, who will sometimes appear on “Real Housewives of New Jersey” with his mom, Caroline. I know this because I have always thought he was adorable, sue me! He was incredibly nice and I found it refreshing that he wasn’t parked at a VIP table, instead I found him at the back bar waiting to order a drink with a few of his friends.

What I took away from the night though is that he may be known for “Jersey Shore,” and you may have your preconceived notions of what he can do, but Pauly D put on a great set, I thoroughly enjoy him as a DJ. I had no idea what to expect, but from the show I figured a lot of house music and fist pumping. Not the case. I heard all of my favorite artists like Drake and Tyga, he kept the crowd going and, of course, dancing until the club closed.

You can see my full photo gallery here.

Yeah buddy.