The Lush Life

I live in the middle of no where. So there are moments when I wonder what the hell I'm doing here, and when the hell am I gonna liberate myself from this dysfunctional-ass, barren wasteland. Then I remember that (as always the case) this experience has purpose and that I should make the most of it. I learned long ago that even the most difficult and unlikely situation can be turned into a paradise of cultural and social intersection, and I've developed a knack for pulling it off (thanks Stillwater/House of Nubians). So, in honor of the (Social)Lush Life I thought it would only be fair for me to celebrate the success we've been experiencing.

A close friend (ethnomusicologist, fellow music enthusiast and astrological compliment, Flaco) and I would sit and rant about the need for an alternative social space which not only brought together a diverse group of folks, but also provided an outlet for an experimental musical experience. We would discuss the possibilities for a year with no result. Then I met another young professional( Emily) in the area who was on the same wavelength. We both had been building community, hosting random parties and functions, but we were also looking for some way to consolidate our respective networks. After brief discussion and a little footwork, we arranged to host a gathering at a local bistro & bar. The irony is that some 15 years ago a similar movement occupied the same venue, so it seemed timely and appropriate that we would resurrect that energy. With Flaco at the helm as DJ and the advertising efforts of Emily and myself, the first function(AfroFunk) was a success-- with a significant turn-out and phenomenal participation. So much that, the management of the bar wanted to have the events monthly. The next function(AfroReggae) grew in numbers and left an equally significant impression on attendees, which has brought us to date.

Now, I've always loved Stevie Wonder, and it turns out so did Emily and Flaco. As the musical director for these functions, I knew that eventually I wanted to do a tribute to the Wonder of Stevie. March would have been the ideal time being that that's the month of his birth, but it just didn't work out that way. This weekend is the Billsville Jazz Festival and really the first sign of Spring, so we thought it would be a great time to bring Mr. Wonder to the fore. I know that DJ Spinna & Bobbito have being doing these "Wonderfull" parties for some time(in NYC, LA, every-damn-where) and I've never been, but I've always imagined that it would be a sight to behold. Inspired partially by their genius, I decided to title our function, "Wonder-ful," my own cheeky way of respecting their creativity, but stating the obvious: the world has been transformed by this man, so a tribute party is not really all that original. I just wanna do my part in honoring his legacy, while trying to maintain the sanity of myself and others. If you're in the area, feel free to drop by(check flyer below). Or better yet do your own tribute to Stevie! I'm sure your neighbors/co-workers/children/friends or whoever is in the vicinity when you're paying homage will appreciate the beauty and funk(see: Tricia Rose)! Otherwise just enjoy this clip of Stevie live--at his best! This is my mantra for the upcoming week...I'm gonna need it.

Stay Suck Free- f.negro

Party Flyers: