Staying Afloat

My first introductions to this music had nothing to do with the artist, articles, or features, and was more so about a love for the music; how it sounded, how it made me feel…I want to get back to those roots.

Hello.

Remember me?

Its been a bit longer than I expected, and I hate to use “being busy” as an excuse for not getting things done, but things have definitely picked up quite a bit since the new year. I have a few things to talk about, and I hope to not make this all about me, but if it ends up being that way, I’ll try not to bore you.

So its about two months into 2018, and I suppose things are going well. One major thing that has happened recently is that I’m no longer working my 9-5 job; they fired me two months before I planned to leave…(lol) go figure. People’s typical reaction to someone losing their job/ getting fired is pity, but to be honest, I don’t need it. I walked out of there with my head high; equally nervous and excited for the next chapter in my life. What I’m most proud of is the fact that I didn’t let it break me. Its never fun losing a job, especially by termination, but I wasn’t going to let that place steal my joy.  I couldn’t be upset about it or take it personal anyway, I wasn’t happy in the first place. Of course there were aspects of my job that were cool, but the mere routine of  sitting at a desk for 8 hours a day, 5 days week, is simply not for me…I’ve had to learn that the hard way many times, and this time I’m not sure I’ll ever go back. Its perfect timing if you ask me…now I have more time to focus on MY dream.

(And more time to live my damn life for that matter…)

As some of you know, I’m heading to Berlin for a couple gigs next month, and am keeping my fingers crossed about a couple other pending shows in Europe while I’m there. Its all quite frightening though…I mean, I took it upon myself to plan this “tour”, if you will, and with representation or not, its not guaranteed that people will actually want to book you. The whole process is eye opening and humbling because it makes you realize that no matter how good/great you think you are, not everyone will agree with that. Not everyone wants to book a new comer, not everyone wants to book a woman, hell, not everyone wants to book a black woman. I’m attempting to keep my spirits high, and I remain grateful for all of the good things that have happened thus far. It is a constant battle though, because I want so much more. I do realize that some of the things I want often take years to accomplish, so patience and commitment is important in this industry…I’ve been realizing that more and more. Sometimes I have to sit back and think about what I’ve accomplished in only a year and a half of DJing professionally, and just congratulate myself, sometimes I need that boost. And hey, perhaps some of my success was luck/good timing, but I also know that I am a force….even when I get down on myself.

What’s been on my mind lately is that I want to spend less time “online”, and more time perfecting my craft and studying music. As of late, I feel as if dance music is being oversaturated with content, and its impossible for me to keep up… (not that I even try). Everyone’s got a mix coming out, everybody’s got an interview coming out, everybody’s got a radio show coming out, shit…EVEN ME…I have all those things coming out too, so I get it…but sometimes I just wanna be in my own world to focus on the music itself and not be distracted by the overload of PR and shit being put on the internet that involves this music or the scene. My first introductions to this music had nothing to do with the artist, articles, and features, and was more so about a love for the music…how it sounded, how it made me feel…I want to get back to those roots.

Another thing thats been on my mind lately is the whole “guest mix” trend. If I told you how many guest mixes I’ve had to turn down the past couple months you may not believe me. (And if you asked me for one and are reading this, this is not directed towards anyone directly, so please don’t take offense)…Where I’m at with it right now is that I rather have someone book me than request a guest mix. I’ve done so many of them that I’m beginning to bore myself. I get that releasing mixes can sometimes help with bookings, but what I don’t want is to be the girl putting out mixes for any/everybody…I’d like a keep a little mystery about myself, ya know…like do that shit in waves. Why do you think people like Moodymann and UR are so revered and respected…? Because they don’t work just with any old person that inquires. (Btw, I know I ain’t Moodymann, but hell, a girl can take notes.) Its okay to not jump onto every single opportunity thats presented to you, just do what works for you, and don’t overwhelm yourself. There’s definitely never going to be a shortage of mixes in this day and age, so I figure I can focus on something else for a bit…(ie: This Blog) Oh, and if you do happen to be interested in booking me or requesting a mix, please do it because you truly enjoy the music I play, and like what I’m about. I am not a “trend” or a commodity and only want to work with other people who are truly supportive of the real roots and meaning of this music. That being said, I have a couple more previously committed to mixes to finish then will be taking a break to focus on my NTS radio show. I now have my own platform, and would like to spend more time pushing my own movement. I really want to be smart about the moves I make…this music stuff is business too, don’t forget that.

All in all, I feel good, and as I mentioned before, these next few months I’m ready to start taking my craft to the next level. I had a nice ride this first year being the new kid, but I’m starting to get “real” bookings now, and I want my shit to be all the way on point. I’ll never be that girl that was “all hype”, I’m going to be that one that blows your mind…no matter how long it takes me to get there. I don’t know about some of these other cats, but I’ve been dedicated to this music half my life. I’ve been studying this music before I realized I was even studying it, and it has put me in the position to do/create great things. I will forever be appreciative for all of the influence and inspiration that I received over the years of being a kid/teen in Detroit, all the way to being the girl in the front row of countless shows in Atlanta…it was all preparation for whats happening right now, and for what’s to come.

That’s it for now I think, and special shout out to all of the other Artist’s and DJ’s out there doing what they love and simply trying to make it. Its not easy out here, but it is possible with hard work and dedication (for some of us)…just keep doing you, keep shining…

Stay afloat.

-Ash

Underground and Black Top 10 Records of 2017

The current state of dance music is often  questioned, yet there is no denying that there is still quality music coming out.

As 2017 comes to close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect upon some the amazing music that came out this past year.  The current state of dance music is often  questioned, yet there is no denying that there is still quality music coming out. After compiling this list, I noticed that most included are long-time respected music veterans, (which was not on purpose, by any means). My musical taste is very much influenced by Black, American artists, and this list without question confirms that. Black music is equally present and relevant as it ever was, and one can only pray that it will continue to stay that way. As a music lover, and as a DJ, I recognize the  importance of embracing new talent and exploring unknown territories musically, yet could never deny the fact that my true love of this music was formed by some of the pioneering individuals on this very list. I was  not surprised to see the major publications “Best of 2017” lists barely including any people of color, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. The majority of the music on this list I have purchased, played out at gigs, and hold in very high regard…

So, without further ado, here’s Underground and Black’s Best of 2017 list:

  1. Waajeed- Shango EP // In the past I had typically associated most of Waajeed’s productions with Hip-Hop, yet was presently surprised to learn that Waajeed, was indeed creating what I affectionately like to call “intelligent dance music”. That beautiful place where, funk, soul, jazz, hip-hop, house, and techno meet. I can’t recall not one time that I dropped “Better Late Than Never”, or “Winston’s Midnight Disco” without someone running up to the booth to inquire. In addition to the EP, he also released an awesome music video for the Shango track….What up doe Waajeed!

2. DJ Aakmael- Tales of the Deep EP //

If your anything like me, when you think of  “Aakmael”, you think “Deep”. Deep indeed is the one they call DJ Aakmael, and no one does deep quite like him. Tired of me saying deep yet? LOL. “Tales of the Deep” EP dropped on Axe on Wax in April, and would probably have to be some of my favorite work produced by an artist, who in my opinion, deserves a lot more recognition. The somewhat reflective piano sample  on “Kosmic Bounce”, is almost hypnotic, and will leave you filled with emotion. Its a track you could cry to, reflect to, or dance to…I love how music is versatile in that respect. Same thing goes for the track titled “Deep Side”, while “Moodcapacity”  asks a question that all DJ’s should be able to answer “YES” to….

“Do you have the ability to create a mood”?????

3. Patrice Scott- The Detroit Upright //

“The Detroit Upright” without question was one of my favourite tracks to come out this year. This particular track got me out of bed on many days when I didn’t think I’d last another day at my 9-5….there’s something about it that just feels good and inspiring. “Who We Are”, is also another beauty….I suggest you check out both of these tracks if haven’t done so yet! Really look forward to more great music from Patrice in 2018. #Detroit

4. Hanna- Bounce EP //

I was introduced to the track “No Fear” on Josey Rebelle’s Rinse FM show that I was featured on, which gives it that sentimental value every time I drop it. I play this track when I’m ready to get people moving, and it never seems to disappoint!

5. Norm Talley- Norm-A-Lize //

In 2017 Norm Talley dropped his debut album on Omar S’s FXHE label, and what I can say….14 tracks of solid heat! I’ve been watching Norm play since the Agave days back in the early 2000’s, and it’s great to see him still doing his thing after all this time. Make sure to cop this record if you haven’t done so yet!

6. Ron Trent Presents Prescription: Word, Sound & Power //

The infamous re-release of this record had a lot of people smiling, including myself. Below is Ron Trent’s previously unreleased “Black Magic Woman” feat. Harry Dennis…imagine how I feel playing this track….yeah.

7. Karizma- The Power EP //

Another historic reissue that I wanted to get my hands on! The reissue includes the bangin remix below by none other than Atjazz. I dropped this track in one of my recent mixes, and it got a great response when I played it out as well.

8. Dego, Kaidi- A so We Gwarn //

When it comes to Sound Signature we all know what to expect…intelligent music at its finest. Looking forward to playing some of these tracks on my NTS show, which I feel would be very fitting, being that some of these aren’t your typical club tunes. This is black, grown people music, and I’m grateful to share it.

9. Hanna- The Never End //

I was waiting like hell for this one to come out!!!! Hanna’s “The Never End” dropped on Steven Julian’s Apron Records this past summer, and I was so psyched to play my favorite track off the release “July” in July…lol. The other tracks are stunning as well, which I’m sure we all can expect from the one they call Hanna. Check this release if you haven’t done so yet, it feels good to support Black labels…Shout out Apron Records.

10. Loleatta Holloway (Louie Vega, Josh Milan, Yvonne Turner)- Can’t Let You Go //

Last but not least, the infamous “Can’t Let You Go” remixes by Louie Vega and Josh Milan. Every time I dropped this track people came running to the dance floor…there’s something about Loleatta’s voice that does that to you! I have a feeling this will be one of those tracks thats in circulation for a long, long time. If not mistaken, it was also nominated for a grammy, which it is more than deserving of, I’m glad to see real music still getting recognition.

 

And that’s it folks!!!! I hope you guys enjoyed the list, and my feeble attempt at music journalism (lol). 2017 was a great year in music, 2018 will be better, and hopefully blacker. 😉 Thanks to everyone who’s been following the blog, I truly appreciate each and every one of you. I’m looking forward to continue sharing in 2018….

Love, Peace, and Nappyness in the New Year!

-ASH ❤

 

 

 

Underground and Black Guest Mix 002: Olive T.

Its been a while since our last guest mix, and I’m so excited to add another one to the collection by the one and only Olive T! She’s been putting in serious work on the NYC music scene for some years now, and is definitely an artist to watch in 2018. I became hip to Olive back in late 2016, when a mutual friend posted one of her mixes on Twitter. I remember listening, and thinking that we had very similar tastes, and honestly was just so excited to find out about another black woman involved in dance music. I sent her a message on FB hoping to not sound like too much of a groupie, and luckily she was very responsive and friendly. Long story short, we finally met when I had my NYC debut at Bossa Nova Civic club this past summer, and we have been supporting each other as black women and artists’s ever since! I really admire Olive for all of the hard work and dedication she has put in, and can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us in the years to come.

Olive was nice enough to answer a few interview questions in preparation for this mix, so before you get into the groove of these soulful, deep, jacking, dark, sounds, have a read below, and get to know the one they call “Olive T.” a little better…

-ASH ❤

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1. Tell us a little about yourself and your influences:

My DJ name is Olive T, I’m from NY -I’m a DJ/Producer/Baker
I brought my first pair of turntables when I was 17 and started DJing professionally about 6 or 7 years ago. My influences are my parents, a few punk ideologies, abstraction in art, nature, sound & feelings.
2. What is your view of the current state of underground dance music?
I think underground dance music is at it’s best point I’ve ever seen it. A few years ago the only dance records I had easy access to were distributed by huge record labels’ sub labels. Now I see regular people creating small record runs and releasing music on bandcamp/internet. There’s a lot more options, diversity, and a further reach to fans imo.
3. In regards to NYC, how do you feel about Black representation in dance music?
This is a tough question, there’s certainly many talented black producers and DJs here that may not receive the same attention as their non black peers due to I suppose… having connects in the business or support networks in the scene, ownership of labels and venues, not having financial means to make music. The representation & exposure could be better. Also a lot of the poc youth here like dance music that may not appeal to the masses or have venues that understand -which makes parties a bit harder to throw.
4. What are you dreams, goals, aspirations for the future? 
My dream would be to live a sustainable life, just from making art/music. My goal right now would be to put out a record/ep or two in 2018 or ’19.
As for future aspirations…i’m not sure, I try not to think too much about the future. I just set small plans and work toward them slowly heh. I would like to help more women of color learn production and to DJ out more/navigate the night life on the talent side.
5. Any upcoming gigs your looking forward to?
Right now i’m looking forward to tackling my New Years Day 4am set for the ravers still going. And I’m real excited to open for Kyle Hall and Jay Daniel at Good Room in Brooklyn, NY on January 14th. I’ve been a fan of their work for years. I haven’t seen a lineup of younger black DJs and producers headlining a club night ever. More of that in 2018 would be awesome.
Tracklist:
Amel Larrieux – Bravebird
A Tribe Called Quest – The Hop (B-Squit Edit)
AshTreJinkins – Skitz
Jad & The – Disco Dancefloor Tool
Larry Heard, Mr. White – Supernova
Nils Penner – Multa (Johnjon Remix)
K-Hand – Live
Lady Blacktronika – Unreleased
Anthony Shake Shakir – Pursuit Mix 2
Black Noi$e – Creepy Crawlers
Glenn Underground – Escuchame’ (Escuchame’)
Lucretio – The Way We Do
Freestyle Orchestra – Twi-Lite
Top Secret
Three Kings feat. Jaygun & Bashy – Shake Dat Booty (DSB Re-Edit)
Sudan Archives – Paid
Mr. G, Mike Grant – My Soul, My Spirit (Mr. G’s Freedom Train Mix)
Ikonika – Oral Suspension (Big Strick Remix)
Norm Talley – The Dream
The Oliverwho Factory – Basement Party
Posthuman – Preach ( feat. Josh Caffe)
Anthony Shake Shakir – Frictional Beat #6 (KMFH 808 DUB)
Farley Jackmaster Funk – The Acid Life

Derrick Does Atlanta.

Thats the funny thing about those epic nights; you wake up on the ultimate high replaying the events of the night in your head over and over again, trying to get that feeling back.

The morning (afternoon) after…

As I sit here in utter awe of the events that I witnessed last night, I wonder…how does one go back to regular life after this?! Thats the funny thing about those epic nights; you wake up on the ultimate high replaying the events of the night in your head over and over again, trying to get that feeling back. Your mind stumbles upon little things you may had temporarily forgotten about and laugh…ahh, what a beautiful night. *Smiles*. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would have been able to be a apart of something like this on the DJ level, and I’m so happy and grateful that I’m doing something that I love. I know I say that a lot, but its true. When I think about it, I’m living my dreams, and its an indescribable feeling.

Coming into this I actually didn’t know that I was going to be apart of the event. As I’m riding in the car with Stefan one day telling him how excited I am too see Derrick May, he casually tells me we’re playing the party too, and I’m like…”WHAT”!?!? It honestly took me a couple minutes to believe him, and I still don’t know how the hell I was last person to find out about this. I was in shock…Before I started playing out I had the feeling that once I did things would pop off quite well, but I didn’t expect to get the ball rolling so fast, so soon. Its crazy to think that last night I was hanging out in the DJ booth with Reggie Dokes and Derrick May, taking selfies with DJ Minx…like wow. I mean, I’ve hung around plenty of DJ’s before, but it feels even cooler now because I too, am a DJ. In training in many aspects of course, but it really is special to be respected by artists that I look up to…Artists who are black like me, artist who come from Detroit like me. It makes me proud, and is a reminder that I come from a special place that brings something powerful and authentic to the world.

I enjoyed playing with Stefan and Duncan, yet must admit that my main focus of the night was seeing Derrick perform. If you can’t already tell, he’s one of the few DJ’s that I can truly say is one of my idols. As I’m catching some of Kai’s set, he hands me his phone and tells me to help Derrick, and I’m like…umm, OK! From that point on I pretty much took on the role of “liaison”, if you will. Apparently Derrick was on his way in the uber and I was going to greet and escort him through the club. When I tell you I was excited, honey I was excited…I’ve always wanted to do this kind of work anyway, so I was living! I’m texting him from Kai’s phone telling him I’m Kai’s assistant and that I’m gonna be waiting on the street when he pulls up. Not sure where the assistant title came from, but it felt fitting in the moment. (lol) When his uber pulled up I greeted him with with the biggest, most overzealous smile in life, but I think he liked it. He’s like “you Ashleigh?, and I’m like”yup”!!!!  He had like 3 bags with him and I’m like wait, did you just come from the airport, and he’s like no…then I realized that it was all music that he had in tow. I grab the smaller of the bags, and begin to escort him through the massive crowd. Although I’m “little”, I’ve always had a knack for getting through crowds, and this time was no different. We got through seamlessly, and he’s like “wow, your amazing”. I’m thinking like, NO YOUR AMAZING (lol.) I ask him his drink of choice and he humbly says water…okay cool, my next mission: find Derrick May the best fucking water the sound table offers, which ended up being a still water in plastic cup….fail. HAHA. This is all quite humorous looking back, but in that moment I was pretty determined. I really value the importance of making an artist feel comfortable and taken care of. You want everything to be right, so in return they can perform to the best of their ability.

At the end of of the night I thanked him for his contributions, and told him a little more about myself. We took a pic, he signed my record, and of course, I gave him some Underground and Black stickers. I hope I don’t come off as some over excited fan, but it was super cool to kick it with someone that I’ve always looked up to and admired. Its also so cool to have something that you care about (Underground and Black), and it feels good to represent your mission; your cause. Underground and Black is my mission and my cause that may have a ways to go, but without question is my dream, and I’m glad to be working towards it. I’m also glad to be living in Atlanta at time where we’re truly making our mark on the dance music scene, and I pride myself on being an active member of the movement.

All in all, it was a beautiful night, and everyone from every scene seemed to be in attendance. The Sound Table stayed open an extra hour too, which was fitting…it simply would have been disrespectful to have Derrick perform for less than 2 hours. I even had random people walking up to me telling me how much they enjoyed my set, which I still sometimes get caught off guard by, but nonetheless, the reassurance feels good because I truly am giving my all. As I walked back to my car barefoot and alone I couldn’t contain the happiness I felt within. It was a memorable night, and an experience that I will never forget. I know not everyone can understand how a dark room with red lights and loud repetitive music could be so appealing, but yes, its true, this is when I’m home. This is one of the few environments that I feel absolutely comfortable in, and one of few environments where I feel like I can truly express myself. To now experience these nights as a fan, and now as a DJ, is very rewarding. My main goals throughout all of this will always be to preserve the roots of this music, and to be honest, I feel like I am.

The year is coming to a close and it would be impossible for me to recant all that I’ve accomplished this year without feeling incredibly boastful, but let me say just say that I am happy. Let me also say that its never to late to follow your dream. I know that may sound cliche, but its true. I spent the majority of my 20’s trying to figure it all out, and things are finally coming together. I found something that I love to do, and I’m DOING IT. Its scary at times, and sometimes I feel like I’m in over my head, but I’m up for the challenge, and refuse to let fear, or anyone/thing get in my way. I have some serious power moves happening in 2018, and the fact that the city of Atlanta just elected a black woman for Mayor has me even more inspired. To be a woman of color doing things they said we couldn’t do, or didn’t think we could do feels damn good. We are capable, deserving, driven, and much more powerful than we realize. I’m taking this power and strength and I’m running with it…there is no more holding us back!!!

To all my black women breaking barriers; I see you, and I salute you.

-ASH ❤

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**Here are the rest of my December gigs if you want to check me out sometime! Also, my bi-monthly event Expressions returns January 6th, 2018 at The Sound Table…please support this amazing night!!!***

 

December 8, 2007- FM Elle Art Basel Showcase // Miami, Florida @ SQL

December 15, 2017- Teknox // Knoxville, Tennessee @ The Birdhouse

December 16, 2017- Excursions // Atlanta, GA @ 258 Auburn Ave

December 22, 2017- Morph // Atlanta, GA @ Wildpitch

 

 

 

Hanna in Atlanta

Friday, November 10th was a special night, and I’m still on high from Hanna’s performance. I was a little late getting hip to this talented man, but became instantly hooked once I got a taste. Like many other Black, Midwestern artist’s, Hanna brings sounds, soul, and feelings to life in a manner that can’t be duplicated. As I stood there in amazement watching him perform, I felt a sense of astonishment, happiness, and achievement. My vision of this night was playing out right before my very eyes, and I couldn’t have been more proud.

As of late, I’ve been becoming a fan of parties with smaller line-ups. Unless at a private venue, clubs in Atlanta close at 3am, and get started around 10 or 11pm. If you think about it, that’s really not that long of a time, and it takes some of us more than an hour of playing time to truly get into the zone. Putting that factor into account, the two person line-up works great between Stefan and I. I do also realize the importance of showcasing other artists, which is why we’ve been exploring the idea of booking other talent to play with us. I don’t quite recall how the idea came about, but I do remember brainstorming and Hanna almost immediately coming to mind.

If you don’t already know, Hanna’s a pretty low key guy. There isn’t too much press about him, and he’s merely impossible to find on social media outlets. As I searched through Facebook with little success, I came across a “Hanna aka Warren Harris” fan account page. I figured I’d try my luck and inquire about his booking information via the group. After a few hick-ups, someone finally responded with a legitimate email, and from there everything began. Karl, owner of The Sound Table teamed up with us on this booking, and was just as eager as I was to get things confirmed. After a couple weeks of negotiations everything was finally in place, and it was now merely a waiting game.

As the night approached I was very curious to see how a live set would go over at The Sound Table, being that its such a DJ oriented venue. Stefan and I played our usual b2b sets, and by midnight the energy in the room was pretty intense. The music was poppin, the crowd was energetic, and there were plenty of folks on the dance floor. As the energy rose and the BPM’s increased, I started to wonder if were going to a bit “too hard” in preparation for Hanna’s live set. I was again anxious about the crowd response, but it was now showtime. Hanna was set to play at 1AM, so around 12:45 I approached him like “you ready”? And he replied: “of course I’m ready”,( in the most reassuring voice ever). I escorted him to his table, got him a fresh “dark and stormy” (his drink of choice), and from there the magic began. I was able to give him a nice introduction, which was cool, being that doesn’t typically happen at the events I go to, or am booked for. I’ve always had a thing for public speaking and love an opportunity to get on the mic. Hanna also got on the mic after his performance, shouted out Stefan and I, and stressed the fact that he doesn’t agree to just any gig, and was honored to be in Atlanta. It felt damn good.

After the performance, it was back to the DJ’s sets, and I couldn’t wait to drop a few Hanna tracks in his honor. He very responsive when I did, and it was such an epic moment to have Hanna dapping me up about my set. It was one of my best sets to date, and my confidence was through the roof. The dynamic between Stefan and I can be pretty competitive at times, which sometimes makes it all the more fun. As a woman, I’m always here to show and prove that we are capable playing with the best of male talent. After experiences like playing after Omar S. Movement weekend in Detroit there’s not too much I feel like I can’t achieve with a little determination. If you don’t already know, I’ve been a student of this music for nearly half my life. I didn’t just wake up and decide to be a Techno DJ, I spent years of my life studying and being passionate about this music…the DJ thing simply felt like evolving.

Due to some personal issues, going into this installment of Expressions I had planned on it being the last one. I mean, why continue working with someone who you often cannot see eye to eye with? Stefan and I have been in each others lives for some years now, and as with many relationships, have our ups and downs. Trust me, its no surprise for us to be arguing back and forth over the stupidest shit behind the DJ booth, all the while still having to DJ together for the remainder of the night. lol. These things typically blow over, yet show the short comings that may arise when having to work with friends, (or people in general for that matter.) As the night came to a close we decided that Expressions is far too special of an event to cancel. I also realized that we should consider the people, the movement,  and not merely ourselves. Expressions has built a nice following over the past few months, and isn’t quite like any other event that takes place in Atlanta; its young, its fresh, and the music without question, comes correct. With that being said, Expressions returns January 6th, 2018 and I can’t wait to keep rocking with all of the supporters! Thank you again for helping make this night so special.

Cheers.

-ASH

For The Record…

I do believe that unfortunately not as many black people in modern day America are interested in dance music, but perhaps they could grow an interest by seeing, hearing, and learning about other people who look like them that are involved.

Hello!

I just want to remind folks that being “pro something” doesn’t mean you’re “anti the opposite”. I had someone message me stating that this blog, Underground and Black is “divisive” because one of the goals is to showcase people of color involved in dance music. He backed down once I explained my reasoning in detail, yet I’m left feeling like this happens far too often; the questioning of minority groups wanting to celebrate their culture/contributions. Historically, many black art forms have been subjected to white washing, and this, in my opinion, stems from different factors. I do believe that unfortunately not as many black people in modern day America are interested in dance music, but perhaps they could grow an interest by seeing, hearing, and learning about other people who look like them that are involved. As of late, there seems to be a resurgence of black millennial aged people who are taking an interest in this music, and I merely want to be apart of the process of keeping the momentum going (through DJing, my blog, and any other way I can.) Of course I think everyone should be celebrated, but with that being said, it’s often us people of color who are not celebrated when we are more than deserving.

I don’t know how effective this journey will be, but if I can simply educate and inform a few people about something that I’m passionate about, I’m content. In the year that I’ve been DJing publicly (and blogging) I’ve had people of all races tell me how they are inspired and extremely supportive of what I’m doing, and it makes me feel like I’m making somewhat of a difference. To the argument “the music is for everyone”, I get that, but let’s not forget those who paved the way, and at the same time let’s celebrate those who want to continue the legacy of black people in underground dance music. To me, this is bigger than being a “DJ” or a “Blogger”…this is some historical shit, and I want to be apart of it. Not for notoriety, but because it’s something that I care about immensely.

I was born in Detroit in 1985, the same exact time and place that Techno was born, and was listening to a lot of this music as a kid before I even truly knew what it was. Once I figured it all out (especially the black involvement) it amazed me, inspired me, and legit molded me into who I am today, so if you have a problem with me wanting to celebrate black people in dance music, then perhaps you are the one that’s divisive. We all have the platform that is the internet, and it’s up to you what you choose what to do with it, but please don’t shame me for wanting to share my experiences as black woman as well as celebrate those who are often overlooked. I’m blessed to be in the position that I’m in today, and I want to make a vocal and visible difference. I realize there will always be those people who feel “offended” or “left out”, and that’s fine with me, this isn’t about YOU. Stand or something or fall for anything. #straightup

Year Two…

If you don’t like something, create something new to challenge it.

Well, its been a while, and I apologize for that. Sometimes its far too easy (for me) to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Last time I wrote I was coming down from my House In The Park high, and today, I sit here feeling extremely enlightened and motivated moving into my second year of being a “professional” DJ. Yes, I’m using the term “professional” extremely loosely,  but I’m making moves and getting paid, so that attributes to some sort of professionalism. Right?

I played NYC last weekend which was fun, although I think I drank a little too much during my set at Black Flamingo, and ended up misplacing one of my USB’s. I realized this the following morning as I went to prepare for Lot Radio, and definitely felt a punch to the gut. While there is a chance it perhaps fell onto some random street corner and got stepped on, there is also the chance that someone got a ahold it, (and lucked the fuck up on a shit load of music.) It sucks to say the least, and its apparent that I gotta start keeping my shit in order at gigs.  I can’t deny I’m a sucker for vodka cranberry’s, but you really gotta take care, and be aware of your belongings…whether it  be headphones, usb’s, records, etc…things come up missing and its never fun. Lesson learned. On the brighter side of things, I enjoyed my set, the club had a nice turn out for a Thursday, and for the first time, I felt as if I eloquently mixed via rotary mixer…turning those knobs really is an art of its own.

Lot Radio was another highlight of the trip, and I felt a sense of responsibility having the opportunity to host my own show on Friday night. Carry Nation and Analog Soul had the slot before me and it was really awesome to kick it with such respected artists and members of the dance music community. Its mind boggling playing alongside people like this, being that I wouldn’t have imagined this possible a couple years prior when I saw Analog Soul play at SmartBar in Chicago. I was so inspired when I saw them up there, and was hella proud to see two Black women controlling the dance floor with such strength and soul, and now, of course, things feel full circle.

Speaking of strength and soul, the weekend prior to NYC, was AfroPunk, which I’m sure some of you wanted hear about. I have decided to not go into full detail about some of the shortcomings I faced, but looking back on the day in itself, it was fun, and a great opportunity. AfroPunk being my first festival appearance felt extremely appropriate, and it was an honor to be there representing what I felt, was black people/women in dance music. While AfroPunk is pretty eclectic with their musical selections, the percentage of House Music / Techno DJ’s is still pretty low. When I first got booked for it, I immediately started thinking about all the hip-hop and soul edits I could potentially play….then as time passed I decided I would stick to my roots and play what I normally play… that’s the freedom of being an artist, and I don’t ever want to lose touch with that.

Due to some scheduling issues, my first set got cancelled, and I was to only perform my second set, which was from 10-11PM…the same time as Solange, the festival headliner, who everybody and they momma (including myself) wanted to see. I already knew my stage wouldn’t have much of an audience,  I mean, I can’t compete with Solange…lol. I had a crowd of about 15/20 throughout my set, and I’m glad that my friends were there to support me, it actually wasn’t so bad anyway. Random people would walk up and start dancing, clearly intrigued by sounds that were more then likely unfamiliar to them, and it felt good. It was crazy being back at work the next day…I went from being a respected artist with my own dressing room, to back sitting behind a desk kissing ass in a matter of less than 24 hours. Damn.

Next up is Milwaukee, and I’m ready. This will be my first time playing in the Midwest outside of Detroit, and I have a feeling I’m in for a treat. Playing gigs across the US has been a great experience, and I def still have a few more cities on my radar…LA, Miami, Chicago, and Pittsburg, to name a few. After this Milwaukee gig, and after Expressions the following weekend I’ll be pretty much open in terms of bookings. My local bookings have slowed down, and I’m taking this as an opportunity to brainstorm and get better. I’ve been peeping folks on social media griping about not being booked locally, and only getting respect outside of their hometowns, which I understand could/can be frustrating. I know I haven’t been out here long as a DJ, but the best advice I could give to those feelings is to quit focusing on who “doesn’t fuck with you”, and start focusing on who does. Not everyone has to like you or support you, and I’m just now really accepting that. It sucks, but thats just one of harsh realities of  this shit. I think complaining is counter productive when you could simply start creating your own platforms to showcase those  you feel are being overlooked (yourself included.)

One of the main reasons I started Expressions, or even thought of it, was because I wanted to start headlining and getting more playing time at my gigs. I figured, if its my party, I have control to set it up the way I see fit. Who cares if everyone isn’t booking you, its not their obligation to imo. Some people won’t book you bc they legit are a hater, and some may not book you because they legit don’t like your sound….thats their problem, not yours. I guess all I’m saying is that I rather focus on the good shit thats happening rather than whats not. If you don’t like something, create something new to challenge it. I used to get in my feelings when certain people would ignore my accomplishments, but at this point I really don’t care anymore. I’m focused on me, those that support me, and achieving goals. And honestly, people will come around if you keep shining and doing your thing…they’ll have no choice than to respect you in the long run.

In closing, I just want to say thank you….again. I’m moving into my second year of this journey and I don’t know where the hell I’d be if weren’t for so many of you that believe in me and trust me enough to be apart of your visions. Later this week I’m going to be on fucking NTS radio, and I been smiling all day. The day before I got the email, I thought to myself how NTS would be 2018 goal, and now here I am knocking it out much sooner than I expected. I know its not easy out here, and I know I’ve been blessed to accomplish so much in so little time, but best believe my work is far from done. I still only know a small percentage of this trade and lifestyle, and I’ll forever be a student. That being said, I’m eager to blossom into what I one day hope can be a long term career as a DJ and person of color keeping the visions of American underground dance music alive.

Until Next Time…

-ASH ❤