In a surprising turn of events, the vibrant startup scene in San Francisco witnessed a dramatic incident on Monday night. The founder and CEO of Cluely, Roy Lee, described the situation as ‘the most legendary party that never took place,’ capturing the attention of many in the tech community.
Cluely had planned to host an after-party following the Y Combinator event, known as AI Startup School, which was set to take place over two days. This event attracted significant interest due to high-profile speakers, including notable figures from the tech industry.
Emerging from a backdrop of controversy, Cluely is an AI startup that has made headlines for its unconventional marketing strategies. Lee, known for his humorous approach, shared a satirical video on social media promoting the after-party. The video featured him near the iconic Y Combinator sign, a popular photo spot for startup founders, despite Cluely not being a part of the Y Combinator program.
With over 100,000 followers on social media, Lee’s tweet generated buzz, inviting people to direct message him for an invitation. However, he clarified that the invites were limited to friends and acquaintances, yet the excitement surrounding the event spiraled out of control.
As the party time approached, a massive crowd gathered outside the venue, leading to long lines that extended around the block. Lee remarked on the overwhelming turnout, estimating that around 2,000 people showed up, far exceeding their expectations.
Unfortunately, the gathering attracted the attention of law enforcement due to the obstruction of traffic, resulting in the police intervening to shut down the event. Amidst the chaos, Lee humorously exclaimed, ‘Cluely’s aura is just too strong!’ as the officers dispersed the crowd.
Reflecting on the incident, Lee expressed a mix of pride and disappointment, stating, ‘It would have been the most legendary party in tech history. I would argue that the reputation of this story might just make it the most legendary party that never happened.’
Lee gained notoriety in the San Francisco tech scene after a viral tweet revealed his suspension from Columbia University for developing an AI tool designed to assist in job interviews. This tool eventually evolved into a startup that offers discreet assistance during interviews, further fueling their controversial marketing approach.
The aftermath of the party’s cancellation quickly became fodder for jokes, memes, and wild speculation. Lee downplayed the situation, assuring that while the party was cut short, the drinks remained untouched, hinting at future gatherings.