MOVEMENT WEEKEND PARTIES AND THINGS

Every year around this time I get excited to go to Techno City. The anticipation is always high because Detroit is such a wonderful place. The music is always incredible, and the people very genuine. For me it is especially inspiring to watch strong brothas and sistahs who are entrepreneurs, artists, and musicians thrive.

If you have never been to Detroit it is imperative that you experience it’s vibrant musical culture outside of the festival. Whether it be jazz, funk, soul, house, techno, or hip hop music is embedded in the culture of the city. You are doing a disservice to yourself to not venture past Jefferson and Woodward .

I always am curious to understand why people would travel thousands of miles to Detroit and not seek to find the true story. The DJ’s, producers, promoters, and regular attendees all throughout the year should be celebrated, as they are the ones holding it down. Those people are the reason why Movement exists in the first place. Without their hard work, dedication and perseverance throughout the years this weekend would not exist.

Dance music is rapidly becoming younger and less diverse. It is extremely important to ensure it’s original narrative is front and center for all to see. Otherwise the risk of being written out is the reality we will face. It is with great hope that we do not allow that to ever happen.

This year there are so many parties if you are inexperienced it would be a daunting task to decided which events to attend. Generally speaking the best events host home grown talent, and are definitively soulful. Choosing to visit Detroit and not experience this side of the city in my view is wasted time.

The weekend starts of in epic fashion with Theo Parrish’s Music Gallery Nine. If you are hoping to attend a party with DJ’s who can play any and everything look no further. Their concept is simple; great music, big sound, and an unpretentious atmosphere. Arrive early and stay late as this one bangs every year.

https://www.facebook.com/events/305679956767094/

Saturday has so many great events even I am torn on where I would be. With that being said do yourself a favor and check Underground And Black: Detroit at Mix Bricktown from 1400 to 2200. The event features a few of the soulful undergrounds next generation. As well, Patrice Scott who right now is on a tear with his productions. If you have never heard him DJ get there because he is going to leave the room hot, sweaty, and you begging for more.

https://www.facebook.com/events/413237105891604/

Saturday night get ready because it’s going to be bananas. Between Rick Wilhite’s The Formula Is Back, and Kai Alce’s Deep Detroit 11, hop parties is all I can say. There is enough firepower with these two parties to definitely leaving you in bed sore and tired until at least Sunday afternoon.

The Formula Is Back features Josh Milan one half of the legendary duo responsible for hits produced by Blaze in the golden era of house. As well, Josh Milan’s music on his Honeycomb imprint is some of the finest soulful dance music produced today. Home grown artist’s Rick Wilhite, Alton Miller, DJ Minx, Bruce Bailey, and Atlanta’s DJ Deb round out the lineup. If you are a fan of Deep Soulful sounds and care to be surrounding by a mature and sophisticated audience this one is for you.

https://www.facebook.com/events/330968107619174/

Deep Detroit 11 is always one of the most anticipated events of the weekend. For good reason this one always goes hard. The lazer guided curation and thought that goes into Kai’s production displays why he is one of the best producers of his generation and an excellent DJ likewise. Larry Heard, Chez Damier, Derrick May and many others have made appearances. Huge energy, a room full of dancers, and his rare vinyl release for the party make this the place to be. This year Track Mode and DNH label bosses Brett Dancer, and Nick Holder hold it down. Both of their labels are responsible for some of the finest and timeless releases of recent memory. If you care to bring the sun up dancing to Deep Underground Vybes this is where you need to be.

https://www.facebook.com/events/257554171797893/

Sunday night Excursions Detroit takes place at a brand new venue Detroit Artists Test Lab. Curated by Cordell Johnson and James Vincent. The original concept born in Chicago with a desire to provide an aspect of community as part of their vision. The two have definitely done so, and the Detroit version has become a destination event Movement Weekend. As always the lineup starts with Detroit’s own Marcellus Pittman, Japan’s Loftsoul, rounded out by residents CJ and JV. This year’s special guest is Lakuti of Berlin. Originally from South Africa she now heads up Uzuri booking agency with an impressive roster of DJs. Her residency Finest Friday at Panorama Bar in Berlin alongside partner Tama Sumo has hosted the who’s who of dance music. This is shaping up as one to be remembered. Dress to sweat!! Come early and stay late because this one is going to rock hard.

https://www.facebook.com/events/387857542062427/

Looking forward to vybing out. Here is seeing old friends and meeting new!!! If we see each other around say Hi!!!!!