House music isn’t just a sound; it’s a culture deeply rooted in Black and gay communities. That history means everything to me. I don’t see myself as someone borrowing from a culture; I see myself as someone contributing to a lineage that has given me my life’s purpose and a sense of belonging. With that privilege comes a significant responsibility.
In a world where electronic music has become a global multi-billion dollar industry, it is easy for the original intent and the people who created it to be sidelined. As artists, we must be the ones to keep that history front and center.
Education is Essential
If you love this music, you owe it to yourself to know its history. Read about the Warehouse in Chicago and the Music Box. Learn about the Belleville Three in Detroit. Understand why these spaces were created—they were sanctuaries for people who weren’t welcome anywhere else. These weren't just places to dance; they were places of liberation and survival. When you understand the struggle, the joy, and the community behind the kick drum, you play with more depth and respect. You realize that a DJ set is more than just a performance; it's a continuation of that sanctuary.
Humility and Contribution
I approach this music with respect and humility. Every time I step behind the decks or into the studio, I’m trying to add something meaningful to that lineage. It’s not about my ego or my brand; it’s about the music and the culture it represents. We are all caretakers of this sound for a little while, and we should leave it better and more inclusive than we found it.
This means supporting the originators, acknowledging our influences, and being mindful of how we occupy these spaces. If you're a white artist in a Black-founded genre, you have an extra layer of responsibility to be an ally and a historian.
Connecting with the Originators
Spending time in Chicago at the Chosen Few Picnic or in Detroit for Movement has been transformative. Hanging out with the originators and techno pioneers reminds me why this matters. It keeps me grounded. If you have the chance to learn from those who were there at the beginning, take it. Listen more than you speak. Ask questions. Buy their records directly. These connections are what keep the culture alive and prevent it from becoming a hollow commodity.