Music is Not Canceled
Music lovers rejoice! As the COVID-19 lockdown continues, serotonin levels are at an all-time low. The electronic music community, among all other corners of the music industry, is experiencing global cancellations, reschedules, and modifications of all large music events worldwide. However, the lockdown has not canceled music altogether. In fact, a new kind of “couch party” rave culture has taken hold of the electronic music industry.
Many electronic music-oriented companies have started a new trend of hosting virtual live stream parties that can be enjoyed by all from the comfort and safety of your own home. In fact, there are now so many live stream parties happening at once, it’s like being at a festival and having multiple artists to choose from at all times! The hosts of the live stream parties invite listeners to watch and listen to sets from various DJs by clicking on a link provided on their social media platforms. Listeners then stream the event on their own television or streaming devices. The DJs perform live from their own living rooms or backyards, which is a cool way to peek into the homes and families of your favorite DJs.
These live streams have become very valuable to music lovers and frequent rave goers because they create a sense of community and togetherness in a time of involuntary self-isolation. Live streams not only provide an online party for you and your friends, but they also provide a little distraction from depressing and anxiety-building news channels.
Amazingly enough, companies hosting the online raves have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities dedicated to coronavirus relief. Notably, Beatport raised over $180,000 during its 34-hour live stream ReConnect party for the WHO’S COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and the Association for Electronic Music Members’ COVID-19 Hardship Fund. Additionally, Proximity and Trap Nation had goals to raise $100,000 in support of musicians and music creatives suffering from financial instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They reached their goal in the first 13 hours of their 3-day Digital Mirage Online Music Festival for Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.
Likewise, local DJs are also participating in the live stream fun. Here in Atlanta, Alley Cat Music Club is hosting online raves every night (Monday through Saturday) and accepting donations. If you want to join the next online rave party, here’s how you can participate: (1) check your favorite DJ’s Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube channel for dates and lineups for the next live stream, (2) tell all your friends to join in, (3) buy some colorful lights and a disco ball, (4) watch, dance, sing, and donate whatever you can!
Photo by @marginwalk3r, via the Alley Cat Music Club.