The Summer of 2016 tents, festivals, parties, and you!

I’m going to start with an apology to my tall friend, Todd Johnson., I know the picnic was the beginning of August but I'm just now getting around to writing about it. My bad lil homie!

The weekend of Charivari.. well the week after I started a new job., one that I really love! I have been tired ever since. So to all of you I’m super sorry it has taken me so long to pen my latest Blog. I’ve either been too tired or too hung over to get my mind to function properly. ( thanks Melissa) I really appreciate you!

Pre Charivari was just as exciting as the actual event, Che's annual back yard shenanigans Como's before Charivari, the excitement was building. Watching all the post on Facebook.  People building brands and forming working relationships. It was a great time indeed.

Now you know how I roll so along with sharing the events of the summer I will be adding my own comments on the way I THINK things are. They may or may not be the case but from the spot where I rest my hind parts Im pretty sure all comments will be accurate.

I’m going to jump back a ways.. like January. Al Ester's birthday party.. wait, I think I wrote about this already.. ( ok, quick recap) Al's party started the year off with a bang nothing too big happened after that until May. ok on to MOVEMENT not just for the parties but to acknowledge some Djs I heard for the very first time. So I’m at this pop up party thrown by Kevin Dysard. ( more about the Col. later) I truly enjoyed Nigel Gieger and Noel, and also Vincent Intrieri ( good lord, I wonder how long it took him to learn how to spell his last name) anywho...The two Cat's from Kalamazoo came in and straight RIPPED it! They have a soulfulness that I did not think Kalamazoo could bring. Since that time I have grown very fond of Nigel and will continue to support his every move. He is one you want to watch!(Oh, I’m going to keep this on the new people I had the pleasure of hearing)

Surprisingly Big Phool aka Bam aka Jimmy "out cook yo momma" Drew.. maaan that brother knows how to control a crowd. I'd like to hear him out more often! Now on to Vincent., he brought something to the table that I was not use to... but his tune selections and dj stylings are in a word... perfect! The Sandman came through and put it down on the 1's and 2's ( that Cat needs to play one Beautiful Sunday)-Todd is the Sandman who NEVER puts you to sleep!

...and even though we are no longer speaking, and I SWORE I would not give him one iota of a shout out. I must admit. Earl Mixxin McKinney banged the SHIT out of EVERY party he played. Lil man needs to play like that more often. I know... I know... I said I would only talk about the new Cat's I heard, but that lil Swiper looking DJ deserved to be mentioned! ok..back to not about EMixxin! - insert big cheesy grin!

Ok, so back to the whole Charivari thingy.. and my view point as I see it.

Didn't team Charivari tell yall in English, French, and Sanskrit that there would be a limited time to get early bird prices.. but you kneegrows opted to wait until the very last minute and then have the unmitigated Gaul to be mad cause the price of the tickets went up. Listen, ya weed man don't supply ya high, the corner stores and bars don't supply your drink..unless you PAY for it! How could you NOT want to support an event that you wanted! These people gave you what you ask for!!

Then had the nerve to comment that it was better when it was free... ok, you kinda sorta get a pass cause everything is better when its FREE.. but you good folks have jobs and will sell one of your kids on Ebay to pay for MOVEMENT tickets only to hear people who don't know what the fuck a turn table is. Or how to beat match without the use of modern technology. Hey, I’ve tried this beat matching thing, I’ve tried it and it ain’t easy nor is it cheap.. with THAT being said. Folks can no longer afford for you (us) to party for fucking free!!!! Yes they had sponsors, they also had overhead.. so when you throw your event BIG EVENT let me know how letting every househead in free helps your pockets...mmmk!

If you walk away from a big event like that or MOVEMENT with a dime over poverty during the 1st 5-10 years consider yourself lucky! and I’ll consider you a drug dealer cause they are the only ones I know that can get away with stuff like that! Don't come to me talking shit about that team cause for 2.5 years we partied for free..

Now here are some things I would have liked to see at the picnic. I would have like to have been able to bring a grill. I would have liked to see your Tink Thomas’ and Nervous Breakdowns play. I would have liked not to pay the high price for a bottle of water. (but I learned, in some instances there are insurance and legalities involved and there may be no way around this since it is a state park) This does not work well when people have children that are always thirsty and waste water like they tend to do! Other than that it was a really superb event! It was hotter than a slave ship in July but it was worth it. It was superbly executed. They even thought about passage on and off the island. That's what a good project manager does.. Shout out to Theresa Hill cause I know how good she is about things of that nature!

The setting was phenomenal and each and every DJ brought their A game!

I wasn't going to miss being a part of that event no matter the capacity, be it guest, VIP, DJ...ok not DJ but you get my drift!

I’ve always said the people I know now, grew up in my neighborhood but I did not know any of them. So it was so nice to hear stories told by friends that have known each other since they were wee ones. Another family event to be enjoyed.. Shout out to Gary Chandlier who gave em da business as only he can, our comradely in the park gets you the, "uncle that always start shit at the family barbeque" award lol

Now on to the DJ's.. D. Wynn opened up the doors of the church.. that man played with so much fire. I looked around to see if there was a baptismal pool. Cause I was surely jumping in! Side note.. I had little to NO battery life the entire weekend so I will be going off memory!

Seth Carter..my lil bro, you mos def put it down with your tunage and blending skills.. way to come up baby brah.. ( we've talked about this so please don't act surprised)

Thomas Barnett.. you, my handsome BFF, my personal creation (insider)- do NOT get the credit you deserve. You took us higher and higher.. plus (..and this is for the ladies) there is NOTHING like looking at a good looking man while he plays for and with you! So Thomas.. you get the, "DJ with the most panties soaked" award! again...insert big cheesy grin!!!

Kevin Dysard, you made us remember why we started this partying thing in the 1st place. Thank you for taking us back to where it all started. BTW, did you eat anything with mustard on it?

ooh!!! ooh!!! the chick from Chicago, the one who has the magazine.. THAT heffa got mad skills yo! I honestly would remember your name but I have a bottle of wine that's half empty!

Every stage brought complete heat.. special special mention to that FIERCE feline DJ Minx, as I was passing through the crown watching people watching her. I heard one dude say, "WHO is THAT" to which his friend replied. "dude, thats Minx" the friend said.. " That's a girl?" his friend..,"No, that's Minx, 100 % woman!) I made it a point to remember that verbatim! They were in awe! but hey, its Minx the chick gets down...period!

I'd heard Mike Huckaby play at MCW just before the event and I LOVED every minute of his set.. as did the crowd at Charivari cause dude had em in the palm of those massive hands! – now, I’m going to side bar here... just a tad., So as I was watching Huck walk away.. ( hey, im a woman and I like looking..aint nuthin wrong with that!!) I noticed he walks like he is carrying two heavy ass flight cases. and aint shit in dudes hands! He also walks like he will knock yo ass out! kinnnda sexy! ok ok.. where was I, I’m just going to put it out there, I am SO ready to see Craig and Mike do a gig together. I think it would be so cool.., and I am going to repeat this until it happens, since throwing a temper tantrum will cause one of them to look at me like im stupid and the other would verbalize it!- big cheesy grin inserted....here!

But as the night(s) would have it... the weekend was owned by Eddie Fowlkes, The Sonic Natives, Norm Talley and Delano Smith!! and one ninja check that gave them all a run for their money!!

Allan C. Ester.. baby age ain't nuthing but a number! You have played your entire ass off since January, like you are on a mission.. from God! Everybody,and I do mean EVERYONE praised both you and the Natives for a helluva set. ( I was not there, I was sitting under a tree.. it was hot, my bad) my former loves, had an encore set.. mad love to these Cats. Your trips abroad are long over due.. rest my friend your time is coming!

Wait I would be remised not to mention The House Gallery or Detroit Techno Militia, as per my usual I missed Adam Francesconi's set but was in the place to be for Jason Garcia he never ever lets me down... although I recently admitted why I love each of them as individuals.

I was there front and center for Tommy Gunnz aka Tom Linder's set! I think he is the only one that can make me dance to techno, I think it’s because he comes with it from a soulful place with a faster pitch.. IDK I can't really put my finger on it!

Now Eddie Fowlkes.. ladies run to CVS, pick up that EPT kit, cause Eddie got somebody pregnant that night! He came out the gate playing some old sexy, funky, house shit! His set was so friggin good and sexy the state boys came in and shut his ass all the way down. I mean they came in there like our parents use to do. Come in, shut the lights off right before you heard them exclaim.. "shut that gotdamn music off and go to bed!" State boys were in old skool parental mode! I did not see them do this to anyone else.. Yeah, Eddie you the SSSSHIT! now I do wish I would have written this sooner cause I had SO much to say about Eddie and his hype man Harry C. Todd ( Harry, I never knew you were such a good hype man), you get the, "surprised everyone" award!

Now by the time my #'s 1 and 2 came on I was tired as a son of a gun. My tent was at the back of the park, it was dark, no one was around to assist. The tent was a 10x10 but a nice gentleman from Germany helped me take it down, He was here for the festival..cool shit right!!! I think I should mention neither one of us knew what we were doing. here is where I admit I stereotyping people. Ok, so I was trying to get my tent down. So every white person that came along I just KNEW they would not know to get it down.. boy was I wrong. Guess I should not have lump them all in one category huh. Sorry my light skinned cousins... I carried that stupid tent on my FUCKING head, going up an incline. Calling on the support of my ancestral mothers from Afrika to my more recent ancestral mothers from the slave fields.. I needed all the help I could get! Because I was NOT going to miss Norm and Delano! Cussing the Charivari team out all the way for having them on two different stages with one playing the same time as Terrence Parker.. Who AUTHORIZED that! maaan I really do love those two cause if you haven't noticed.. I do not get to the gym often and I'm a smoker. So!... by the time I got the tent in my car, I thought surely this would be my last night living cause I had put a strain on this cholesterol infused, under used heart of mine. But, I was going to hear my 1 and 2 so I was going to die happy!

Now, earlier in the day, the bestie and I talked about what we thought Delano was going to play, cause... you know, we thank we know er'thang!!! We both felt like he would come more techno...WRONG!!! WRONG!! But, more about him later!

I talk about Norm all the time so this time I am going to give the floor to the young lady Terrence Parker brought out! At first I thought... "oh good lord in heaven sweet baby jeezuz please tell me TP is NOT using a gimmick now"... WRONG!!! WRONG!!! But, more about him later!

So after Norms set, which I ran to sorta reminiscing of the scene in, The Color Purple where Ms. Shug Avery was running through the fields trying to stop Ms. Celie just before slashed Mr. throat!.. again, I thought I was going to die.. all that running and shit! I stayed for a few minutes to hear the iconic Terrence Parker.. but I was so super tired and was to start a new job the next day.. with my chair in tow, I figured I would stop between the tents to hear both Delano and Terrence!

ooh baybee Tomika and I were waaay off! Delano smack us around like Ike did Tina (the uncut version) I just sat my chair down and said, "fuck it" Delano Smith is the best thing since sunshine! There I said it! he fucking RIPPPPPPPPPPPPED it!

but, since I was between tents, I hear this sound coming from my rear and thought, "oh damn, TP over there KILLIN em”, only to find out it was Ninja chick! ( sorry don't know her name) I'll be corrected I'm sure! But, from Tina Nelson's account she was more than incredible and would give the best of the best a run for their money!

I know I did not mention everyone..but know each dj "brought it" and the people loved it. Sure, some where there and jumped on the complain train, and some where there as a double knot spy, spitting venom but all and all it was a good look. I was glad to see people from abroad come over for this event.

SE Michigan is primed for more festivals like Charivari and MOVEMENT!!

Shout out to Cedric McDougle( I think I spelled it wrong) for the Oasis tent festival. We need to keep that one going, if for no other reason than the history of Idelwild! BRAVO Ced! It was said, that they had not had that much fun since 1965, this place is a part of our history..don't let it die!

Now people don't need to come just in May, they can come whenever there is a festival and good music is played. Where DJs come together in the spirit of love and djsmenship ( yeah, I just made that word up)

I'd like to add..and you know EXACTLY who I’m talking too.. before you go shitting on other peoples festival, make sure you have all your shit together, make sure you have a back up plan. Make sure that, even though the people had a good time, YOU walked out with a sizable profit! Until an event comes off without a hint of issues then sit down, shut the hell up, and enjoy the music AND your fellow DJ!!!

Those negative vibes that some put out came back to bite them right in the butt..yep, I fucking said it!

I guess now I understand that no matter how much I long to have us support each other, we just can't seem to get it together. If the music is about love, one/togetherness.. why all the shade., we are middle aged now., and we still have a good time. As long as the music is playing and the drinks are plentiful.. take that spirit and incorporate it into how we treat each other daily!!!!...support each other. If we all work together we CAN WIN!! We won't be some honorable mention on a TV show in the future! You all hear it! This underground sound is becoming more commercial.. and if you all ( we all) don't start to act like we got some sense ALL this and MOST of you will be a paragraph in the History of House if you’re mentioned at all…

You (we) were never meant to fit in, we were meant to stand out. Househeads in some way, well...we all of us come from the island of misfit toys. We are different..we are what the world could be, as long as you take that same feeling you feel on the dance floor or during events like, MOVEMENT, Chosen Few, Bang Tech, Charivari, Oasis Tent Fest, House in the Park.. We could be more than a quirky group of middle aged successful party goers.. we could be the blueprint for a better place to share the globe with.

Let the Music Play

~P

 

An open letter to my House sisters

A few months back I started saluting the women in our House music circle. Mostly because I love and admire most all of you. Another reason was because our circle is very small, and what I see and hear going on with the females in this set is sad and childish to say the least. Ive been both a victim and promoter of some of the childishness that I've seen.

First I had to step back and really take a good look at who I was/am, what role did I take in either being a victim or promoter.  hmm., let's see, I trusted too many people, made too much of my personal feelings or business known.. didn't address rumors before they got out of hand.

Now while I will not mention any names by the end of this Blog, if ya smart- and I know you are you'll be able to figure it out.  If this Blog makes you do one of the following, pick up the phone and call ya friends, shake ya head.. or ( and here's the one that makes me laugh hardest)-dislike me even more. Then good I've done my job.

I was not put on this earth for you to like me., but you will respect me! As I do not like some of you, but I DO respect you!

I've seen women who have been in this House scene dislike other women because they are new or because they are pretty, threw a party that was better then yours, have a bangin body, slept with a DJ you use to fuck with..  ( listen, they are DJs and we have what most of them want...pussy) once done with you its on to the next. Ladies, that's just men period. But in this small circle I get it! Hell, Ive lived it!  insert ANY reason. The focus should always be on the music, but rarely is. 

 I also started the sister salute to help debunk the myth that I was a shit starter.. now Here is what I am. I live out loud, I call it like I see it- sometimes I'm wrong but most often times I do try to own up to it.  I am the worst at offering up an apology- character flaw admittedly. I'm in talks with the Lord about this. Here is What I can say about myself.. when I have had an issue with any of my House sisters I do try to address it with them 1st. ( im sure that's NOT the story being told). But by the time the story hits the airwaves I'm the one in the wrong..and to think, it all started with a bus trip and the lying ass bitch I chose to do business with. I've never fully recovered from that! ( yes, i said, "lying ass bitch")- now, she had more credibility because she had been in the game way longer than I. A brief history behind the "lying ass bitch" comment" I never EVER called the hotel and got my friends locked out of their room. I told her that I would pay her back ( which I did) she knew I had some issues and wasn't going to go. Once we got to the hotel, I was advised, by her that I had my own room ( I was going to stay in a friends room to save money) Her words, " just pay me back" ok cool. nooooooo that's NOT how the story was told..and so the story goes. Now I tried to handle this privately but, ya scandalized my name! and made it a very public and ugly mess. There are several others like the one where the 50 year old 5 year old was upset at the fact that I was sitting at a table with, "her friends"..my thought, "BITCH! when did this become the United States of YOUR childish ass" and made you queen?!?
Or the one where I shared some information that I really should NOT have shared. My question is, who hasn't done this.  Or the one ( and this hurt me the most) where one of the sisters I loved the most was going to get someone or a host of people to jump on me!? really, we DO that at this age? thankfully we've mended fences. Lastly, the one where a jealous insecure chick would do ANYTHING to piss on her tree then try to act like she was completely innocent. Mind you I also tried to address concerns with her to! Because I wanted to clear the air so to speak. However she took the cowards way out in my opinion or it simply could have been she felt like she did not owe me any convo..but her actions were sophomoric at best!

These are the things I really had to think about, where do I fit in to this and what did I do to perpetuate the situation. 

There is one person I have yet to clear the air with, but I'm working on that. I loved and still love her like a sister and miss her dearly( I have your half of the Twinkie and its yours if you want it)., and would kill someone for her! But please never underestimate me, do NOT think you can call me and cuss me out ( even though, again... I was in the wrong) and things not escalate.   I ain't no punk, nor am I an ass kisser!

Ive heard, " she don't speak when shes in the club" newsflash I can barely see in the dark. I can be looking directly at you and not be able to make out who you are!

What tickles me is, you smile in your face House sisters. then go directly back and talk shit! Please please PLEASE if you don't care for me, do NOT speak to me. Cause rest assured, if I don't like you I will NOT speak! point blank period. again,  its a character flaw, me and God are in talks about this also.  I would say, - negotiations, but God doesn't negotiate.

DJs and my House brothers, you all help in these feelings that we (some not all) House sisters have towards one another, stop playing these women against each other. Women ( ...and TRUST I had to realize this to) let's try to push past this! We are too old, too educated, too fly, and too precious to be play by some (not all) sea slug ass nigga's! I won't elaborate but damn, some of you have a good thing going on at home (possibly) and you still try to have your cake and eat it too. This is across the board, meaning some of you females as well. 

We have more days behind us, then in front of us we are middle aged and we play games instead of music.

I've been fooled and been a fool- lesson learned. It hurts to have to look in the mirror and see yourself for who you are and what you have done. 

But to my House sister's let's please try to come together in love and the spirit of unity.  Aside from the music the DJs and other men come out for a little eye candy. We have all been shit starters in one way or another. I know a few who have not.. 4 to be exact. Stop disliking a person based off what you've heard. Remember there are 3 sides to every story. Their side, your side, and what actually happened. Based on your vantage point you may see the same things completely different. Just open your mouths and talk it out.. but caution this can go way wrong as well. Trust me on this, I called myself trying to talk about something and it went way left in a foolish way that is., and I felt silly and stupid after my dinner and conversation with said House sister!

We are a small community and we are some of the baddest chicks out here. That's bad meaning "good"!

I realize this Blog may make some feel, "some kinda way"- oh well I have to deal with that. 

In the mean time., Come out have a good time, wear, rock, "werk" those outfits and shoes.. Always know you ARE baddest bitch in the room. Don't spread gossip and hate. That's not what this scene is about. Its not what the music is about!

I have some issues I have to work out, cause I am by NO means perfect. If I have something to say about my House sister, its because she has done something to ME personally. For the most part I think mostly all of you are fantastic and have something to offer this scene. and I mean that from the very bottom of my heart!

And to my ride or die, Tomika Murry.. BITCH you the SHIT! There are other sisters but that one right there, I have a history with and a very close and personal bond, imma need you all to understand this! She is my ride or die even when I'm parked!

There are times I wish I could be like you.

Diplomacy is not one of my strong suits. I come across as brash, and accusatory! That's not my intent, again..I'm taking it to the Lord ( in our next session) 

Until then understand, we are all works in progress. Let's work together to make it a better scene to dance in, laugh in, cry with etc...etc.. I don't want to look at my beautiful House sisters with that side eye, I don't want to hear my name come up in a negative way., nor do I want yours to. Do NOT come up to me expressing your distaste for another House sister. Handle that shit with her directly!

The only thing I want to do is...

Let The Music Play

~P

...from the friendship cheap seats

April 30th 2016, as I normally do I was scrolling through Facebook when I stumbled upon a few stats that made my hairs stand straight up. I  remember sitting straight up, my 1st instinct was to pick up the phone and call, but for whatever reason I stopped myself. Instead I went to the Facebook page to see, it had already begun. Since that time I'd thought long and hard if I should write about you, us, our unique kinship. I wanted to make sure I did this right. 

So before I begin, let me tell you what you meant to me. In a very short period of time you became my family, we laughed..you told me stories and great parables about life. You never sugar coated anything when it came to me. Its like I'd become this little sister that you nurtured, and groomed. 

I looked up to you, and our favorite joke was, "nigga if YOU swing, I swing! imma go low you hit high"! You taught me to be brave and sure. Strong and steadfast! Powerful yet reserved.  I loved and admired you like any little sister would her brother. Mostly you showed me through your actions and words, " never EVER concern yourself with the small stuff. lol and fuck a, "suck butt ass nigga" !

Prior to making your acquaintance I had a friend, a very good friend, since 1984. His name, John Macon. Like you John saw something in me I never saw in myself. Like you, John would always say, " I don't know rather I should laugh at you, or with you" ! - he, like you did both he, like you imparted his wisdom and humor he was indeed my BEST friend! He had the same qualities as you. He was my everything, and I was his. Like you, never more than friends and someone I could count on. The great thing about both of these men was they made everyone feel as if they were the most important friend they had. It takes a special kinda person to do that. But I, digress ( I could go on and on for days about Johnny Ed) I remember feeling lost when John left, but ( ..and I truly believe this with every fiber in my being) that John sent me you! Funny, I thought it would be Edland Turner, I was wrong it was Steve Dunbar. 

As a kid growing up during the early party years, I knew of you, I didn't know you, but I heard of you. I just thought you were a DJ, it wasn't until years later that I found out the roll you played in the party scene. ( if you want to know the story please read Todd Johnson's history retrospective on the party scene) - Plus, Todd's a much better writer and story teller than I. #shamelessplug.

A brief history from the "cheap seats"- and I may get some of it wrong, sue me!

His brother Morris was in with the popular group, Todd did the lighting thing, I think Todd has always been the one with the business acumen ( had to look the spelling up for that word) 
and then there was your best friend, with whom you share your birthday...Al Heath! Now HIM...I do remember, I thought he was the meanest guy ever to walk the face of the planet. I would never even smile at him, cause he always had that serious look on his face. But this ain't about Al. I will say Al Heath is a sweetie and funny as hell. You can never judge a book by its cover..but again, this ain't about Al.

I would joke and say, "the only reason you got into this, is because Moe was waaaaay cuter and you just wanted to get all the girls and ya had a little talent". It was a pretty large group of home boys, and a pretty lil lady named Theresa together they paved the way for the House music party scene here in Detroit. I can only start this story where I entered. By that I mean, I'm sure there were others that came before them., but my foray started at a club located on E. 7mile road and John R.  ( I won't butcher the spelling) but those who were there know how to spell it! L'uomo's where I became a House head although back then it was Progressive music!  

Time went on and this rag tail group of friends grew older.. and some better looking. - Greg Gray, Kevin Mapp and James Shipp- I'm talking about y'all in particular!- insert big cheesy grin.

Missing the days gone by. Someone had the idea to throw a picnic and that my friends is where the Charivari Detroit festival was born. Again, you can read more of the origins in one of my Blogs, but its 5:13 in the morning and I'm running low on cigarettes. So I'm sooo not going into detail. 

You had this vision, and the backings of a strong supporting cast. Most importantly your beautiful wife who you were so proud of and in love with! I remember you telling me how you would do ANYTHING to keep her happy! How she has been down for and with you since day 1. Plus y'all made a dynamic duo. 

I called you Sonny for reason's Ive shared only with Moe. You called me Kiddo for reason's only known by you. We would talk for hours about this vision of yours how you wanted it to go, how you wanted everyone to be included. We argued on some issues I stayed strong in my beliefs about the subject matter and you stayed strong in yours. But whenever we would end our conversations it always ended with, "love ya Kiddo! Love ya Sonny"!

...but you had to go, we love you but God loves you so much, he wanted you home...maybe he too was trying to have a festival and needed bounce some ideas off of you. To keep myself from crying I would tell myself you left because I kept egging you on about spinning again. I needed to keep myself sane, I needed to make sense of it all. To this day I have shed only a few tears. Because I hear your gravely voice in my head telling me I was a soldier! "Put ya big girl panties on and handle yo handles"

I only knew you for a very small window of time. I sat in the very cheap friendship seats, and was glad I got to sit in them at all! But in that time, the value of that friendship was/is immeasurable. 

As we get closer to Charivari Detroit 2016. Your "squad" is pressed forward to continue your vision. Your soldiers have grown. Your vision has expanded. I'm so very sure you already know this. 
So THIS is what we are going to do. WE are going to make this one for the record books. Your presence will be all over the Rock aka Belle Isle. Each and every DJ will play like their momma's life depended on it! and..when its all said and done we will all work togther to make 2017 even bigger!! You hear me Sonny!!! BIGGER!!!  We are because you believed. We are because you had a vision! We are because the music, like your memory will never die! 

Maybe now, I can let the tears flow..maybe. I wanted to say so much more., but selfishly I won't! You see everyone else had you since early in life..I didn't and some things are better left to my own memory, my personal time with.. A son, brother, husband, uncle and friend.

You are one in a million, you will live on and your name will never be forgotten.
I love you Sonny, and I would give anything to hear you say, just one more time. " I Love you too Kiddo! 

Just know we will continue to...

Let the music play!
rest well, see ya on the other side!!

Osunlade, a night to remember! Or the night Marc Duncan reminded us he is more than just the sound man!

Remember I'd stated in several Facebook post that, I have had major issues with writers block. A good friend suggested I start writing down my thoughts while in the moment. So...I did, and the Osunlade was the 1st time I wrote, while in the moment. So if ya saw me standing off in a corner, or thought I was aloof and not paying attention, trust and believe, I was! To the crowd, the vibe, the music, and the people. ( I SEE EVERYTHING)

Hangin with one of my best buddies that night started with a bangin birthday celebration for the Chicago import Melvin "DJ Magic" Tuck. I did have my reservations about the party since it fell on the same night as Osunlade, but as it were. The Sonic Natives have a standing night at DRIVE and it just happened to fall on the same night. There is where I began to write, in the moment.

The music was on point and Magic took us on a funky, groovy ride, and his counter parts played for their fellow Native. Most important. The people danced and had a awesome time. ( this was also the night where I got in free for the last time.., well maybe not). Here is where Jon Easley made me realize support is necessary for the scene to continue.  Change begins with the person in the mirror, damn I'm going to hate that guest list life. But I mean.... there will be times when I need to be on one!  Let's just keep it real, we'd all like to be at the gigs, but the way our bank accounts are set up...

On to the next spot.. Cause Jon was rushing me ( scape goat) TV bar played host to this Yuroba Priest.. Who's music took us from the Motherland through the great jazz age to the funk and all musical spots in between. People grooved to the magnanimous musical prowess.

It was a birth, re-birth, and spiritual awakening, He is Osunlade, he is one for the mind! Sexiness was the mood of the evening, rich and decadent was the vibe in the building. All kinds joined at the hip by the soul of the music and the man who played it. Universal energy., body, mind, one in spirit connected in sound the reverberated through both walls. Alchemy, organic energy, The Priest lead his people and we were all grateful for his the medicine that is...the music. Most felt like it was an orgasmic experience that lasted all week. It was pleasure at it's most pleasurable.. ( yeah, that only make sense to me) ANYWHO...

It was my 2nd time hearing Osunlade, he is extremely approachable and he makes you feel welcomed into his world. You feed off of his vibe. This Midwest man owes his status to both Detroit and Chicago he took Techno and House and made it his own. Most don't even know Osunlade worked in production for Sesame Street pinning songs for the likes of Oscar the Grouch, and Mr. Snuffleupagus that's how far his reach is. Here is a man who can write for pieces of material then turn around and bring all kinds together in one big massive musical orgy., and he left you filled but longing for more.

I always like talking to folks on the patio, ( one of my favorite spots at TV) I love to people watch period. I enjoy seeing others having a funky good time. It was refreshing to see TV looking like the United Nations, conversing with each other, grinding on each other.. there, but on another plane of existence. He took you to the highest of highs and played nothing you hear on a weekly basis. He educated us! Oh I'm sure the DJs had heard most of the music before but for the lot of us, it was just that... an education. The dance floor stayed packed some in awe of the man who opted to spend his birthday here, with us, in Detroit, at TV! Yeah, Detroit House, soulful sexy House is gaining power again., and WE are in the middle of a revolution. We don't need this revolution to be televised, we don't want the watered down version of House we want pure natural House. Banging beats and love! and HE brought that..!!!!

I had the opportunity to talk to Aaran Daniels tall kid, like REALLY REALLY tall! Fresh off his gig with Delano, I'd asked Aaran what he liked about Techno/House. This kid spoke like this was imbedded in his soul. In part he stated this was the one place where if felt the openness to bring all kinds together no black white straight or gay just human beings! I'd love to have a conversation with him again. I got to meet Kevin ( a special shout out needs to be given to Kev) he helped put this all together, along with the usual suspects. Nancy, Rick, Bruce and Marc Duncan ( bang up job to that team)!

Now on to Mr. Marc Duncan, THAT MAN!!! Oh, Lord and sweet baby jeezus! He reminded folk he was NOT just the sound man! He played his entire ass off that night, had the walls in the blue room walls sweating.

Most often you see Marc putting up or taking down his sound systems, I love to watch Marc at the end of the night. Often by himself, he can break down a system in like 20-30 minutes and PLEASE do NOT get in his way! He may just run ya over! Marc has always been at the top of my list for favorite DJs but I did leave him for Norm, I mean.. he doesn't DJ that much anymore, and I need my fix on a regular., but I digress. Marc slung us around like a rag doll he played like his life depended on it! You had to stop and look up to see, "who the fuck was that behind them decks" and there he was always smiling ( except when its time to break down that equipment) he played slamming track after track, he NEVER let up. He gave left NO room for error! Marc Duncan gave you LIFE! It was like a Menage a trios. Now, I've never had two men at one time before.. but that night I did! Musically speaking I mean.. I'm no THOT ( that hoe ova there) but THAT night I was., and damn proud to have been one!

We all left with a euphoric feeling, we gathered at the river, and drank from well., that sweet nectar of the beat that quinces our souls, we rejoiced in dance, we embraced each others aura. We smiled, we had multiple orgasms all while clothed. We saw no color, no religion, no socio economic status, we only got and gave love. That night LOVE was shown, it started in the pits of our souls and escaped through our heads elevating our consciousness collectivly. We, were awakened!

Today we lost one of the pioneers of Rap, as I drove to work I was stopped at a light in the car next to me all I heard was commercialized music ( I can not stand the new music) but it reminded me, how lucky we are to have had Phife Dawg, J Dilla etc..etc.. they changed the game they made noise. They taught us. They made a statement through music! While the genre's may be different the message is still the same.

For those music makers.. aka producers keep producing because long after your gone. your mark will be left, and we will continue to

Let the Music Play,

~P

 

photo cred. Merrick Beavers

 

I come across as harsh but this is about love. Maybe a little tough love!

Well here we are just two months shy of MOVEMENT., and 2016 came in like MOVEMENT weekend started on January 1st! When I tell you the atmosphere has been off the meter since the beginning of the year, that my friends is an understatement! Mike Clark ( Agent X) Nancy Gavoor, Al started this year off with a bang! The LOVE and the vibe that was shown was amazing. Throughout the scene you would hear folks say how much it felt like MOVEMENT weekend.. party after party after party. If the years start is any indication on how things are going to be I HIGHLY suggest you eat and rest well.. the Midwest (but mostly The D) will be one for the record books. There has been plenty of love displayed ( with a few exception), and ya KNOW I'm going to touch on that subject a little later on!


Love.. the love we have for the music goes without saying.. the love we have for each other, not so much! I have to admit we have had some big names playing in our city recently and not many of you get out to see them like ya should if you love he music like we claim we do. Some of you get upset because you may not have been invited to a private party ( Louie Vega reference) now, even though the party took place before the new year the discord amongst some that it evoked is a subject matter that we must address if we are to move forward.

Now, granted.. we choose to party with whomever we want to, but let's keep it real some folks had a high class hissy fit cause you didn't get invited to a party?? REALLY?? Where they do THAT shit at!! I thought we were adults.. I get it. Ya wanted to see El' Presidente' aka Louie Vega but what about supporting those who you see every day!?!? Where indeed is the LOVE? Do you go to the Grasshopper, which showcases some of the hottest names in the business..NOPE! Ya know why, cause you have become like mindless sheep.. afraid of trying something new, because ya girl or your homeboy ain't going. But you will flock to a party with folks you see weekly.

Yes, Theo did have a private party and I was a part of that.. he requested ME with stipulations and I followed them to the letter. Do I like private parties.. well, no not really but if I'm requested to do something I do my very best to follow instructions.

Case in point, Alan King was here at M!X Bricktown the turn out was beyond embarrassing.. This is ALAN FUCKING KING!! you will spend your time and money to go see this Cat EVERY summer, but he comes to OUR hometown and...crickets Now, if I were Mr. King, I wouldn't lose any sleep(I think its a safe to say, he didn't ) over it cause again WE spend our money and time to go see him and his homies EVERY summer! ...but I digress, Good turn out for Jamie 3:26 at The Motor City Wine ( he beat the hell outta y'all didn't he)- anywho He comes with Terry Hunter, and while the crowd was better it still failed in comparison to the night Jamie played at the MCW by his damned self. It was Jamie AND Terry the 1st time they played together and they did it here.. at M!X for $5.00 fucking dollars! and the turn out was lack luster we all had a good time but...! Where is the love?

--- Let me stop here and say, I know I can come across as chastising but I'm not! I just want us to think beyond our small circle. I follow the music, what do you follow?

What can WE do to grow this thing called House?

Two of the BEST DJs in Detroit had parties, and while I too was not there I heard about em, and the love was not shown! Let's try to make a concentrated effort to change this. Each one bring one. Let's open this up. I think the Como's event does a wonderful job of bringing in all types to House!

Im going to move on to recognizing your peers.. Now, a few years back, Lynda Carter LOST a DJ battle because she played a form of House that is now called Ratchet.. Let's be clear, it was LC who brought this out! I'm glad to see it gain momentum but give that woman her props!

The Sonic Natives show us some Real Love every month.. support them! DJs this means YOU too! I have seen The House Gallery Cats at events thrown by local DJs I haven't seen any of you at there's. But here is what I do like about those Cat's they keep moving forward and have 3 of the deepest brothers ( well light skinned play cousins) in the game!

My point is.. don't go crying about big names when you (we) don't even support local DJs if you REALLY loved the music we have our butts in the spots where they play for you because they love it, and for some its their bread and butter.

Let me ask, do you KNOW who Delano Smith is? Marcellus Pittman, Malik Alston, Mike and his brother Craig are?  For that matter.. my personal fav, my #1 Norm Talley.. these Cat's SLAY! and the amount of love we show them at home is barely a blip on the musical map. I know I've said this before but I felt the need to bring it up again.. so I did!

We all complain about the price of the MOVEMENT tickets, but still wont pay 5 or 10 dollars to pay for the jocks who play again.. every week! But you love the music.. no ya don't you love the phone and Facebook stats that you post while at the few parties you go to. Yup, me too, ( let me add.. I got a little spoiled with that guest list life) But my buddy Jon Easley put it best.. support the players. So I do.. but I really, really miss that guest list life!

Now, Ive said my peace about the party goers.. now on to you DJs please, please, please, support your peers.. and stop throwing all the low key shade you throw at each other..( thought: I think I've written about this before. ANYWHO... you can dislike the Hustler, but for the love of all that's Holy do not knock his/her hustle. Cause, news flash., some of you think a little too highly of yourself. Stay humble!

A few months back., a collective of DJs I'd done some work for ( hard work) went to a spot where one had a residency. As we were going up the stairs the resident DJ told the door people  everyone with him was on his guest list. I stepped out to have a smoke with a friend., and when I got back and tried to go in I was told I had to pay, I'd asked the manager of the club to get said resident, and they ( resident) acted like they didn't even know who I was. So I'd asked them to get the ring leader of the group, as I stood there watching the club manager talking to the ring leader of the group I CLEARLY see said ring leader shrug their shoulders and shake their head. Needless to say, the club manager told me I'd have to pay. And while this was a major blow to my ego, moreover I was hurt, I couldn't help but think.. " these low down dirty motherfuckers, after the work I had put in... I see, Ok, cool" but I still supported, and from time to time will continue to do so. Because I have a love for the scene, and the music.


At the beginning of the year I saw the love from both the party goer and the party throwers can we please continue this.

I'm willing to bet at least one of my kids ( and if I lose, please take the oldest one) The next House Gallery set will not see the love that should be shown, and I hope and pray that I'm wrong cause Kai will be playing so for those who played for him.. it is your obligation to show him the same courtesy.. Please Lord I hope I'm wrong about this!

Since my mothers passing and all this responsibility that has been thrown in my lap, I have found that the shade and the hate don't matter. I need this music, cause I don't do drugs. cause if I did, with my life I'd surly be on some kind of hard core dope! I chose to make music my drug I chose to make the DJ my dealer I will attempt to make as many parties as I can.

..can we just raise our fist, unite in dance and

Let The Music Play,

~P

Support, Love, and respect and knowing your worth!

Let's see... I've been writing this Blog for a little over 2 yrs now ( I think) and for the most part I have gotten 99% positive feedback.( this Blog may be part of that 1%) I started writing this simply because I felt we ( meaning both Chicago and Detroit) were not getting the nods that we so deserve. 

I see and have known DJs to play for free.. some do it to get their foot in the door, others do it to get their name out there.. others do it just for the love of it all. Above everything... KNOW YOUR WORTH!!!!!!!!!!

I write because I have a lot of shit on my mind! I write because I do believe. I write because I whole hardheartedly believe in everything that is this underground world we live in. Sometimes through musical rose colored glasses. 

I watched Karizma spin at the Sick party, watched his face and his every move. I understood the power a DJ has over the room. I, "get it" ! I see the sacrifices the people in this game make. Family friends, and loved ones sometimes feel left behind because they DO NOT get it. I saw the love in his eyes, the prowess in his turn-table skills, his selection of music.. taking the crowd into a frenzy.. I see this is most DJs. I didn't fully understand until I saw the look on that mans face. 

I watched Rick at the end of the night and alls I can say is..that Cat was feeling the music., I would have taken a picture but it would not have done justice the joy in his heart he was feeling at that very moment. Like a holy ghost type trance.. it was just Rick and the music!

I ran from... ok I walked from room to room between Norm's set and Karizma's set. Norm, sweetie.. I kinda cheated on your with Karizma, and once with Cary Chandler  ( ok THERE Ive admitted it)

Per his usual Norm came in with a smile on his face., ready for the kill, ready to destroy, ready to make us happy. I watch the pride on Kelli's face knowing she is married to a man that makes so many happy both here and abroad! She...supports him! 
It brought joy to my heart to hear Delano say, " his wife makes him a better person"!

Now, let's take it to another level...

Support, when you have someone who believes in you, who understands that what you do may not bring fame and fortune., who may be out to the wee hours of the night, you have a winner!
 DISCLAIMER: pussy is the most powerful tool/weapon on the planet! Wars have started and ended because of it! Its for that reason that I KNOW its so hard (pun intended) to turn it down... but real talk
You watch with pride and admiration as that the person you share your life with brings joy to so many.  Real men who do this understand.. boys do it for the pussy factor. So let me say this... most of you are in your mid 40's some even 50's and if you dont get your act together you will be a nothing with no one. Cause ya hands and ears will eventually give out and Viagra is $1000 a pill! So while you are on the hunt for the next piece of pussy you need to realize what you already have... but then again, that's what grown men do. Not boys who are still trying to make their place in the game.. 

But again, I get it! I don't get paid to do this. ( although I have been told I could) I do it cause I love it.  Someone made a pitch to me to write an article ( weekly) but the cheap motherfuckers ran like roaches when you turn on the lights when I ask about paying me. I still speak and hold them in high regards.. but if you are getting something out of this and you ask ME to do something then understand my time and skill is just as valuable as yours and if you can not support me the way I support you then please... have SEVERAL stadium size seats!

Ya see I'm so DONE supporting and believing in people who do not give the same level of friendship, love, and respect. Done supporting and defending people who do not afford me the same courtesy. Done running around looking foolish because I believe...because I get it! Done understanding that bullshit part of the game!! 

I have had so many tell me how good I am, how I have helped keep peoples names on the minds and tongues of others..but get NATHAN in return!!! So for that reason I gots to let go of that which is not good for me. Selfish, self-centered ego driven stupidity!

When you do what you love you have to give it 100%!!! I see this in most DJs, but the ones I respect are the ones who understand that the person they walk with side by side everyday is the one that makes them a better person. They play better because they are better! They give more because they get more.. all that starts in the home. ya know, the place where the heart is. 

DJs your heart is in the music, as fans our hearts are with you and the music. To the women that support you .. we BELIEVE in you. Hell some of us.. even "wife" ya asses.. ( dumb move) We do it because you move us motivate us, we take pride in you, you drive us crazy with what and how you play! THIS is what Karizma made me fully understand. 

We watch the DJ as he/she manipulates sound and instrument they just "do it" for us! ...and since we are all grown here, most often times based on whats played we wanna fuck y'all simple and plain! But again, if you have a person in your life who is your ride or die and you are too simple minded and selfish to respect it, then everything in your life is going to crumble. You will never be at the level of a Delano or a Norm or a Cedric or an Alan King or a Wayne Williams they can do these things with ease because they have support and they respect that support system.  If you have someone who supports you when most everyone, thinks nothing of you then you my friends are just living in a world inside your own head..one made up of days gone by, and all of your conquest are just good enough for a smoke and a stroke! 

...but I write, I write to tell people have some common decency, have something more to bring to the table.. stop using people. Be it free ANYTHING!( ok, let me pause here cause there have been more than a few times I needed to be on someones guest list)-hell times are hard!  I failed to realize my worth, as a person and a Blogger. I know that now, and I, Paula Michele Johnson am taking it to another level.  Some will be with me others will not! Those who support me.. thank you! Those who use and shelve me to take out only when needed ( well.. if the shoe fits) then lace that son of a bitch up and keep on walking! I've been lied on and too but I still believe. In the music and the DJs who play it. I will continue to support and write for those worth supporting and writing about!

Let The Music Play!!!

In the mean time.. enjoy Rennie Foster's new mix!

https://youtu.be/w-sP9wNP13c

Cedric Hesley.. the man, the move maker...The HEAT seeker!!

A few years ago I was introduced to a man by the name of Cedric Hesley. Bright smile all of 6'4" big dude with a grand personality. Always a smile on his face, except when he becomes the door man, ( don't ask, you're not getting in free... aka, "there is NO quest list tonight").

What I like about Ced is, he always has time for a person to pitch and idea for a party, and he can make it happen! I'm sure this does not come without headaches and attitude, but being who he is he can navigate the waters pretty smoothly.

Like most Ced began as a DJ., he along with Marius, Aaron Hart, Raynard Wells, Ron Cook, Joey Thomas, John Johnson, collectively known as, Audio Mix. Their competition... Direct Drive as both, party givers and DJ's. So Ced decided to go another direction..and that has paid off for him. His 1st big party was held at St. Andrews Hall. The line up included, Chip E, Lidell Townsell, Adonis, and Chosen Few's own Mr. Wayne Williams. The Cotton Club gave way to his other musical interest. (anyone remember the EU party) Ced is by no means new to this game. He was even instrumental in bringing out radio DJ Gary Chandler. He's not just House... he is music, he does this for the love of it all. 

Meeting up with Steve Butler and Bruce Bailey., at Lola's Ced opted to partner with Bruce and Steve and bring them into the HEAT family, it had already consisted of Marius, Aaron and, of course Ced. ( a little later they brought in a lil pistol starter named Tracey Marvin)- and the rest is history. That paid off by bringing the likes of Peven Everette, Monique Bingham, Dajai, and countless others. He even brought Chico DeBarge for my birthday. I mean, he didn't do it FOR me...but in my mind I'd like to think so.

Ced is a forward thinker. Already lining up newness for spring 2016..taking you back to where this all started. 

Ced, going back to his DJ roots came from the Ken Collier school of training. Was taught to DJ by Dewayne "In the Mix" Bradley, and like most others spent a good deal of his time getting to know other notable Detroit DJ's at Buy Rite music. 

  He knows who his biggest supporters are and appreciates them. He gave a mad shout's out to LaSonia Irving Link, Tomika Murry and Tamar Dunn.. who's support damn near every party he has ever thrown. 

Ced to this day is still the only promoter to have a radio spot for a House music event. That's saying something as we are an underground movement! 

I'd ask Ced, "why do you do this"? "Passion for the music, its a very expensive hobby". Ced has even been instrumental in music production for some of the hottest tracks you've heard. 

As I am writing this I now see that Ced had that I-94 connection, long before I coined the phrase and others started bringing Cat's in from the Chi. I was there both times Chosen Few's Mike Dunn has performed. You see what Ced does is, bring the face to the music we hear and love. I mean, yeah we bring in DJ's Ced brings in the music makers., and for that he must be given his props! Ced is the, behind the scenes "front man". He taught me the value of making sure all "I's were dotted and T's crossed.  Most importantly he taught me to be friendly, be personable but when you working that door... get yo money, friendship ( and I'm speaking for myself) does  not apply when you have acts and venues to pay for. Even though I've only had a few parties, NO DJ can EVER say they were NOT paid. Thank you for that lesson Cedric. 

I'd like to think that Ced can flow through this crazy insane world of ours without the person that makes him better... Tina Hesley, you see a woman that understands her man needs a hobby outside of the home, or has a passion for a life most do not understand then it makes it that much easier to have a clear mindset to get the job done. I even heard Delano Smith say, the best thing to happen to him was his marriage., and how his wife keeps him not only in line but also in check! Mad mad shout out to REAL men who understand that this life is nothing without the right person to share it with. 

Honest but not foolish... you deal with him on the up and up and he shall do the same. He keeps himself at arms length, but is also extremely approachable.  No ego, or self glory, no postings on everything that he's doing. He just get's the job done. 

Another thing I admire about Ced is.. he does NOT wait until he is having an event to make his presents known. He will show up at your party. Have a drink some light convo and then its on to his next stop. 

What does the future hold for Mr. Hesley, well I'm not for sure.. we ain't that cool for me to know all the mans business.. But I know enough to say., stay tuned and keep your eyes and ears open. 

In the meantime.... Check out the Sonic Natives 

http://www.traxsource.com/track/2827278/the-sonic-native-anthem-steve-miggedy-maestro-mortimer-snerd-iii-retouch  
Let The Music Play!!!

~P