Over the past few weeks I have noticed more and more that promoters feel they own genres of music. It is disheartening at best to watch others claim stake in something that is everyone’s for the sake of profiteering. Unless you are an innovator you really have no say regarding who chooses to do what. I get it, San Diego is not a huge market and in many cases we are all struggling to capture the same core audience’s attention. However, this city’s population is 1.5 million and in the metro area 3 million reside. It is all of our responsibility to look beyond the core group of “heads” and find new enthusiasts.
What excites me most about living here is how fresh and receptive it is. People are open to exploring new styles of music, and in fact I feel you have more leverage here to play anything as opposed to other cities. Maybe because it’s fresh, or possibly the new young core emerging here. In this atmosphere if you are not picking a few new people off then possibly it is time you reexamine your approach rather than claim stake in something that cannot be assumed ownership of.
There are huge challenges in California for Soulful Underground Dance Music. It is extremely difficult to find venues. Venue owners are unwilling to take a chance on something that may not generate enough revenue. Also, finding a proper underground space can cost an absurd amount of money, which can make or break an event. So it is logical why people can become super territorial.
Fact of the matter is people invest time and energy into honing a craft and are interested to showcase their talents. It is unreasonable to expect others to wait on the sidelines for a consolation gig. I have always been of the persuasion to just do it myself. I would strongly advise others to do the same regardless of what others think or say. In the end it is your art, your music, and your vision. Truthfully that is no one’s concern. Do you and execute so your vision can be realized.
March 3rd Rhythm Nation San Diego (which is my brand) is collaborating with local San Diego crew Bouquet and Rick Wilhite to host his Beautiful Sunday party. It takes place during CRSSD Festival Weekend, and special guest Glenn Underground is headlining.
Bouquet and I have been working together for the better part of a year now. This time we wanted to host an event that could make an impact not only on the local scene, but Southern California as well. Our estimation is during CRSSD it would be perfect time to focus on diversity, reaching the younger generation, all while showcasing tru school talent that has made a serious statement in dance music.
Glenn Underground of Strictly Jaz Unit in Chicago is one of house music’s legendary producers and DJ’s. He has made countless productions on SJU, Cajual, Peacefrog, Guidance, and many other labels. He is most known for his soulful jazzy grooves, however CVO (Chicago’s Very Own) as he is also known has created tech soul bangers, disco re-edits, and four to the floor heat that has stood the test of time. His music has touched me in many ways and I cannot voice to you how humbled and excited we are to be hosting him. By the way if GU plays Disco (which I hope he does) he is going to turn the party out.
Rick Wilhite a member of the legendary Three Chairs also formed by Moodymann, Theo Parrish, and Marcellus Pittman is a DJ’s DJ. Known around the world as one of the finest purveyors of soulful underground sounds as owner of Vibes New And Rare Music. When it is Ricks time to play people stop turn around and pay close attention. His Beautiful Sunday event at Motor City Wine in Detroit features some of the best talent House Music has to offer every third Sunday of the month. I would have to add that Rick is my favorite of the Three Chairs. His ability to adapt to any situation and move a crowd is something that is missing these days. This is why we are so excited to host the both of these two legendary DJ’s.
There are times when you should stop to just observe what is going to happen. Sunday March 3rd in San Diego is one of those nights. Two legendary artists on a serious sound system ready to unleash true deep underground vybes. Surely this makes for a night to be remembered and not long forgotten. Beautiful Sunday takes place at Fluxx Nightclub at 500 Fourth Avenue in San Diego California from 8pm until 2am.
Beautiful Sunday Featuring Glenn Underground And Rick Wilhite