Well. Not really. But hey, you know what I'm getting at!
As part as my "soul searching" hiatus I've been able to take some time to myself and enjoy many simple pleasures of life. Now, I know it's so cliché to say this but music is my life! Who doesn't LOVE music? (On a scale of 1-10...10 being OMG SO MUCH!)
Part of my goals for the year were to really explore and part of that is going on a musical journey. As I've done for years, I've been continuously hunting for the perfect sound, the kind that moves you. I always wondered to myself, besides playing the piano as a kid, why didn't I ever try to fully indulge in the creation of my own sound, my own beat to walk to? As a dancer I have never had trouble with rhythm or self-expression, so it only makes sense to push those assets in an alternate direction.
Recently, (mostly out of being bored and dicking around) I was able to learn how to use turntables... (ha!)
One word: addictive.
Not only was it thrilling, exciting, refreshing...etc., but I was really able to manipulate what I was going to hear and create what felt good in my ears. Just sitting there playing around with beats and having my good friend Myles (DJ MYLES B FOUND AT MERCURY & BUNGALOW haha promo...) dance by my side has become my new favorite pastime. Just the reactions coming from him and whoever else is there at that given time gives me such an overwhelming feeling. "OH SH*T SON!!! I told you she got this on lockdown, guyyyy!"
Anyways, with recent encounters with DJ's (i.e. Mix Master Mike, Keys N Krates, DJ PUMP) that have become routine in my social life, I've noticed that I actually understand the art of turntablism which actually enhanced my already eternal love for music.
With that said, I'm not trying to be the next Samantha Ronson (although, lesbianism is cool). I'm just glad I have a new hobby, a new passion. FINALLY! Just all a part of my musical journey, so it'll be interesting to see where this takes me. Guitar lessons in the works...once I get some cash money. Also, I had my first dance class back in about two years...a breaking/hip hop class with One Circle (Hesam & Oliver were great teachers). Slowly but surely I'll be well on my way to figure my young, curious life out.
On a recent trip back to Montreal for the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, I was fortunate enough...no, scratch that. I was committed enough to claim my spot 3 1/2 hours before the show, deal with rude and impatient crowds, and endure the pouring buckets of rain just to catch a glimpse and be blessed with the musical melodies of one of the greats, Stevie Wonder. What a guy! And what a night! Soaked through but I danced my little booty off and let his voice and beats infuse me. If you haven't really listened to much Stevie (who are you?), I recommend you do. It's very nutritious and delicious to go back and listen to some classics and feed your musical roots! The sounds you hear today are products of the past. Listen to some jazz, listen to some blues, some classical, a bit of traditional music if you have to...and really discover the vastness of the art.
"It just feels so good in my ears!" The crowd just went OFF and everyone was moving. I looked around me and nearly everyone I could see had a grin, were dancing like mad, or just bopping their end in content.
Before the show started, they were playing Michael Jackson and Jackson 5 songs that really got the crowd's energy up and going. People started dance circles, impatience was replaced with relaxation, and voices belting out the lyrics formed a choir. Stevie also included an MJ tribute in his show which was fantastic and really touching. It's amazing how widespread one person's work can be...even for another influential artist like Stevie Wonder.
Oh, MANNNNN!!! I'm getting so excited over just typing this out...yipeee! I saw Stevie!! Haha!
Anyways, don't think I have to further explain my love of music or how others should love it too...I think we all understand what one single song can do for you.
Until then mysterious people who stumble across this mediocre blog...
I leave you with my favorite MJ & Stevie tracks to check out when you've got the time. With all this talk of music it's only right to pay respects to fundamental artists. I know it's become yet another cliché to talk about MJ but in reality, we all know he's the greatest and has been a huge influence on every aspect of music. Musical geniuses!!!!
"Ribbon In The Sky" -Stevie Wonder. Brings me to tears!
"Got To Be There" -Michael Jackson
Ok. So I can't say this is my favorite because like most people, I have many. But this one is young Michael yet is so mature and ...real. It's amazing.
Enjoy! And hopefully this wasn't too long. Just wanted to get my point across...that...I LOVE MUSIC!!! Hahahahaha.
Funky Fresh
