Jordan York- Pittsburgh Park Tour

I love nothing more than connecting with local Pittsburgh artists. Jordan York was born in Miami but raised in the 412 is not only a local rapper and musician but an all around entertainer.

We talked about my goal to get the music scene in Pittsburgh on a bigger level and he is one step ahead of me. This summer Jordan York will be doing a tour where he is going to all of the big parks in Pittsburgh including his last stop at Pittsburgh Pirate's home at PNC Park.

"I think this summer tour will be different and the people of Pittsburgh will like it because it's free and outdoors. It's a way for me to gain more fans and connect with my city," said Jordan.

Check out Jordan York where you can find links to his Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels where his singles have been released. Also on his YouTube page are videos of him entertaining the people of the steel city. I recommend checking out his "It's always sunny in Pittsburgh" spoof.

"I just feel you gotta go out and have fun with what you do and that's why I'm always out and about in Pittsburgh."

I was impressed by his sound. He's biggest influence growing up was his father.
"He always listened to The Temptations and Boyz II Men around me."

You can definitely tell his lyrical talent when listening to his song "Girl Tomorrow."

York also remixed Lorde's "Royals" and added a twist of his signature hip hop sound to it.

He was recently nominated for best pop artist and best live performance for the Pittsburgh Underground Music Awards. Check out Jordan York and then VOTE FOR HIM before this Saturday May 31st at midnight.


And don't forget to stop by and enjoy some of his shows absolutely free in the city this summer. Bring a blanket, some snacks and check out this upcoming star out of the Steel City.

"Forever Young"- Rod Stewart

After Santana's amazing performance, another world-wide best-selling musician got on stage; Rod Stewart.

The vibe of the show transcended from a beach party to a Las Vegas style performance. The stage had a beautiful silver curtain and glossy floors adorned with a gold harp, silver piano, and beautiful colored lights.

The stage was lined with performers decked out in blue sequined dresses, shiny suits and polished instruments. Out walked Rod Stewart in his metallic blue blazer, black cropped dress pants, yellow socks sticking out of his shined dress shoes and his unmistakable hair-do.

(Rod Stewart- Consol Energy Center 5/27/14)

In his perfect stage presence Rod made a joke about the weather in Pittsburgh.

"I'm having a bad hair day. Is it this humidity here in Pittsburgh?"

Yes, it sure was. May 27th was an 80 degree day with scattered thunderstorms that can make anyone's hair an unruly mess.

He played classics like "Infatuation" and "Twistin' the Night Away" and had some really great dance moves.

It was really special for me to be there with my grandmother and see her sing along to songs like "Tonight's the Night."

He played a song off his new album "Time" called "You Can't Stop Me Now" and had a slideshow of pictures of him throughout the years.

(Rod Stewart- Consol Energy Center 5/27/14)

Just like Santana is the face of his band, Rod is also the main act but he appreciates and lets his other band mates have a moment to shine.

He acknowledged everyone on the stage including his drummer who has been the backbone of the band for 43 years.

Each of the backup singers had a chance to have a solo that really showcased their powerful voices.

The saxophone players, harp, trombone, violinist and more each had solo opportunities as well.

Then, Carlos Santana got back on stage and they performed a few songs together.

After Santana's final appearance on stage, it was time for a costume change. Out of the cool blue shiny outfits into sexy leopard print and red for the women and a gold suit with matching gold shoes for Rod.

Females from the Pittsburgh Orchestra were brought on stage to help accompany "First Cut is the Deepest" and "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You?"

One more costume change turned the women on stage into flappers and Rod Stewart into tight red pants with a loose and unbuttoned floral shirt. 

He got the crowd into gear by kicking and tossing personally signed soccer balls into the crowd during "Hot Legs."

The show ended with the popular "Maggie May" and "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?"

His new album is called "Time" and it is available for iTunes download now.

"Trade the gun for the drum."- Carlos Santana

Tuesday May 27th at Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, PA I got to experience a performance that was once in a lifetime. I was a few hundred feet away from one of the world's greatest guitar players and I was there with my grandmother and mother who also appreciate great music.

Carlos Santana. He was born in Mexico in 1947 and learned to play his guitar at the age of 8. When he was in middle school he and his family moved to California and he continued to play different instruments but continued his passion for the guitar.

Santana got his start on the stage by playing some gigs at local bars and restaurants. Santana soon formed the Santana Blues Band and they got immediate recognition. Their big break was at Woodstock in 1969 which led them to signing a contract with Columbia records.

45 years later he is still one of the world's biggest guitar heroes. His has collaborated with memorable artists over the years such as Rob Thomas, Gloria Estefan, Steven Tyler, Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton and many more.

(Carlos Santana- Consol Energy Center 5/27/14)

While listening to their set you feel as if you're on the beach somewhere exotic. Santana's music seriously takes you away. With a mixture of jazz, blues, rock, African rhythms and Latin American sounds all you're missing is a tropical drink in your hand and sand under your feet.

"I want my music to make you feel juicy, sexy and good," Santana told the crowd.

Not only does the crowd dance along and enjoy his music but every person on the stage playing along with him is smiling and having the time of their lives.

Santana may be the face of the band but each member played an important role and he was sure to spotlight each of them. He has singers, dancers, bongo and drummers, trombones and saxophones, trumpets and tambourines all keeping the beat of his music.

"I'm having a flashback," Santana said in his Latino accent. "I was here in Pittsburgh in 1970 with Janis Joplin. It's been a beautiful ride with beautiful memories and I'm glad to share them with you."

He shred his guitar on classics like "Black Magic Woman" and "Maria Maria" and had the entire crowd up and dancing.

The crowd was as diverse as the members of the band on the stage. Different ages and races and backgrounds all here to appreciate good music.

"We come from a different generation, Rod Stewart and I," Santana said. "There's no lip syncing. We don't do that shit, man. We don't know virtual, we know FOR REAL!"

I really love when I see an artist and they pass on their good will and messages about peace and love to the crowd because that is what this is about. Music is about bonding, loving and appreciating what we have around us. There is nothing more peaceful than seeing your favorite music live. No matter what genre. Music gets people through the toughest times of their life and most people can relate to their lyrics or the messages the artist sends.

"I need you all to end two things: Fear and anger. You and I need to be reminded that we have the capacity to transcend and untwist a crooked mind. Stop being twisted and hurting other people."

Santana went on to say to the crowd before his encore,

"If you remember one thing from Santana, remember that it is your choice to make every day the best day of your life."

I can vouch for a few people in the crowd and say that last night was definitely one of the best nights of my life because I got to experience his music live.

Santana closed the show with the familiar song "Smooth" that Rob Thomas from Matchbox 20 collaborated with him in the 90's.

His new album, "Corazon" is out now.

Next up- Rod Stewart.

Be Nice or Go Home- HangOut 2014

I attended a festival unlike any other last week. I can't think of a more surreal atmosphere for a gathering of music and nature lovers than a three day concert on the beach.

The people who attended this festival were a different breed. Their makeup was the sand crusted on their legs and the salt water in their hair. Their accessories were made up of fresh flowers, seashells and sun glistened skin. Their purses were left at home and replaced with beer cozies and Frisbees. They came from all over the country but they were here with thousands of their closest friends. For one weekend they were a family that left their stress at home and only brought their smiles, open minds and sunscreen.

You can venture alone to these hangouts and still have the time of your life. Each festival I've attended I've met people that have left an impact.

This year I was privileged to meet a couple from Alabama. Gabby and Trey, both attending Auburn University, got general admission tickets. To their surprise on the last day of the festival MTV reached out to Gaby on Twitter and offered them a VIP upgrade. That means entrance to the VIP sections that have free food and drinks, better views of the stage and pool access. Through this chance they also got to meet Oscar Wylde from Caked Up.

"It was SICK! There are no words to describe it," Gabby exclaimed.

Her boyfriend, Trey said "This was my first festival experience and not much can measure up to it now that we won the VIP upgrade."

Their favorite moment was at the end of the last night after Outkast finished performing when the speakers blasted "Sweet Home Alabama" as fireworks lit the sky.

"We bleed orange and blue. This is our home. There is no better experience than this in our backyard," said Trey. "Rush Pi Kapp!"

The Avett Brothers

I've always enjoyed The Avett Brothers. Their folk rock sounds have got me through many rainy days. To see them live is on an entire different level. They are phenomenal. Brothers Scott and Seth are the faces of the band accompanied by double bass player Bob Crawford, cellist Joe Kwon, violinist Tania Elizabeth and Paul Defiglia on keyboard.

Their lyrics to "Colorshow" really spoke to me on the beach that evening. "Let your colors show, try to keep the madness low" they repeated as the sun began to set over Gulf Shores, Alabama at HangOut Fest.

They are a truly humble and appreciative group of people. On the stage behind them it looked like they had some of their fans artwork and posters on display.

I looked around and saw how captivated the audience was by their performance.

As they closed with "I. And. Love. And. You." I saw a baby less than a year old standing on her father's shoulders as they both swayed along to their music. That was absolutely beautiful. We come together at these festivals from all different backgrounds, races, religions, ages and social statuses to bond on one level- humanity. We are here to appreciate each other and respect those with musical talents.

(Baby on father's shoulders during Avett Brothers-HangOut 2014)

If you haven't given these guys a listen, I ask that you do. Or even better yet, try to see them live. Each one of them is really talented and they come together to form one of the most beautiful bands that deserve more recognition.

Capital Cities

Capital Cities blew me away. There is always one band you expect to enjoy but they knock you off your feet. I can honestly say these guys were my favorite act of the entire weekend and some of my favorite bands were there.

Sometimes the atmosphere and the way the crowd reacts can make the entire performance. Capital Cities nailed it. With giant inflatable beach balls surfing through the immense crowd; shirts and towels twirling in the air; crazy dance moves... these guys had the entire crowd dancing their asses off.

Their poppy, electronic and fun sound reminded me of one of my favorite bands, Motion City Soundtrack. It was impossible even for the toughest wallflowers not to at least bob their head to their set.

Lead singer, Ryan Merchant, mentioned how he loves playing for diverse crowd's like this because "Music brings everyone together."

They had a cover mashup of "Stayin' Alive" and "Undone: The Sweater Song" that the crowd really got into. And they played pieces of Madonna's "Holiday."

Capital Cities closed their set with their popular, "Safe and Sound."

As soon as I got to my car for my long road trip home the first album I downloaded was their album "In A Tidal Wave of Mystery." Follow them on twitter, @capitalcities, to stay current on their tour and any updates they may have. I promise you they are a great band for summer fun.

SOJA

One of my favorite aspects of music festivals is discovering new bands that leave you speechless. SOJA. How had I never heard of them before?

They remind me of some of my favorite jam bands like Slightly Stoopid, Sublime and Rebulition but with lyrics about peace, love and devotion. They utilize instruments like the trumpet and sax and had the perfect sound to match their surroundings on the beaches of HangOut Fest.

Drummer, Ryan Berty, had an amazing drum solo that had the crowd jumping and their keyboardist, Patrick O'Shea, was unbelievably talented also.

Jacob Hemphill, lead vocals, said "We are so happy to be here today playing with The Avett Brothers, Jack Johnson and.. Okay, that's an iTunes playlist of mine right there!"

Their lyrics spoke of how we are taking this beautiful earth for granted and we need to be more appreciative of the things we have right in front of us. The words of this band spoke to me and it was hard not to have a few tears in my eyes as I looked around and saw just how lucky we actually are. The sun was shining, the ocean waves were crashing on the beach and everyone was happy and dancing along to their music.

I loved when they mentioned sometime's it is okay to "turn down." Turn down the music, turn down your voices, turn down your stresses and take a deep breath and appreciate what nature has right in front of us.

"Take care of one another, that's what we are here for, we are all family," Jacob reminded the crowd.

If you haven't already, check out their music. They are a perfect summer time jam band. Their song "I Believe" will have you dancing and smiling the entire time you listen to it.

Josh Farrow

Sunday morning Josh Farrow, who reigns from Nashville, played to a small and intimate crowd on the beach. This was my first time hearing him and he has a very unique voice that I knew I had to hear more of.

I really enjoyed his song "The Worrying Kind." After a few more songs he admitted how amazing it was to be at HangOut again because just a year ago at this very same festival he proposed to his best friend and he said "I am marrying that beautiful woman just 6 days from now."

Some of his songs had some great funky bass that the crowd really enjoyed dancing to. He was a perfect way to start the last day of HangOut Fest.

Best of luck to the newlyweds and follow him on twitter @Joshfarrowmusic for updates.

The Killers

The Killers were a band I always liked in my middle school and high school years but unfortunately never had the chance to see them live. I had been missing out! They put on an excellent show to close out Saturday at HangOut Fest.

The crowd was nothing short of electrified. They played all of their hits including All These Things That I've Done, When You Were Young and Smile Like You Mean It.

(The crowd chanting along to "All These Things That I've Done"/HangOut 2014)

They did covers such as Alphaville's "Forever Young" and Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Bad Moon Rising."

Mark Stoermer, bassist, had an awesome solo performance that lead into one of my favorite songs, "Jenny was a Friend of Mine."

They ended the night with Mr. Brightside as fireworks lit up the sky and the full moon shined above the ocean.

The Killers truly ended Saturday at HangOut Fest with a bang and "Somebody Told Me" it was the best night of their lives.

Modest Mouse

Modest Mouse is one of my favorite bands. With lead singer, Isaac Brock's, interesting style and unique voice, every time you see them it's sure to be different.

They opened their set on the HangOut stage with Dramamine. The crowd was super into their performance throughout the entire set. They played their hit "Float On" about halfway through and that really got the crowd moving.

Closing with "Fire it Up" and "The View," Modest Mouse left me wondering if they will be releasing any new tunes in the near future. Their last album was released in 2007. Judging from looking around the crowd during their performance, they still have a huge following who I know would be psyched if they released new music.

Keep updated with them on twitter, @Modestmouseband, to see what their future plans are. Hopefully there is some "good news for people who love bad news" on the horizon.

Amos Lee

I had heard of Amos Lee before but since seeing him at HangOut he has taken over my iTunes playlist. His folksy and acoustic rock sounds accompanied by some jamming on the keys really stands out.

He covered songs like Queen's "Fat Bottom Girls" and Beyonce's "Single Ladies" to get the crowd moving.

The coolest part of his set was when he brought out a choir from Mobile, Alabama to accompany him on a few of his songs. That cultural decision added so much to his set in the deep south of Alabama.

His band played instruments like banjos and mandolins and proved the deserved their spot on the main stage.

Follow them on twitter @AmosLee for updates and upcoming shows.

Needtobreathe

Another band I discovered at HangOut fest was Needtobreathe. They are an alternative rock band that got lots of fist pumps and had the entire crowd rocking out. Some of their songs had some bluegrass and folksy rock sound also.

They use a wide array of instruments from mandolins to harmonicas and organs but kill it on the guitar and drums also. Bear Rinehart's, lead vocals, raspy scream was my favorite part of the band. He has a voice unlike anything I'd heard before. Bear's brother, Bo, is back up vocals and guitar.

Bear said, "I'm honored to be up here with my friends and my brother. We love each other and I hope you love each other too."

As I was listening to their lyrics, I detected some of their songs had a Christian rock sound to them and they sang about their God.

What I realized is that it doesn't matter what religion, race or social status you are. We can all come together and appreciate music. Music is one thing that we can all enjoy together despite our differences.

Their song "The Outsiders" was one of my favorites. Here at HangOut fest, we were all outsiders looking in and becoming a family for one weekend.

Follow them on twitter to check out where you can see them live and for my Pittsburghers, they will be at Stage AE on June 3.

RDGLDGRN

Well, I could have went home happy after seeing this band Saturday morning. RDGLDGRN (pronounced Red, Gold, Green... Yes, I stumbled on that for a second and tried pronouncing it something way off) were absolutely amazing. This is not only their band name, but each of the artist stage name. There is RD, GLD and GRN along with their DJ.

I had never heard of them before but as soon as they came on the HangOut stage I knew they'd quickly jump the line to one of my favorite new bands. Their lyrics were all about appreciation, peace and love. They defined this weekend for me. If I had to choose a band that solidified the meaning of HangOut Fest, it would be them.

With reggae, Rastafarian, hip hop, jazz and rock sounds all meshed together- this band was the epitome of an epic beach dance party.

They had the crowd in their grasps and everyone seemed to be entranced. They asked the entire audience to get down to the ground, stay there for a minute, look to the side at the ocean and appreciate it. Then the crowd rose simultaneously and began jumping to the beat of their next song.

Getting the crowd involved is such an important aspect to a band who is trying to gain new fans. They were masters of this. Having them chant lyrics. Teaching them dance moves. Even singing happy birthday to someone in the audience named Aaron.

GRN said, "We come out here and do what we love and you can too. Don't let anyone tell you who you are."

That resonated with me. My entire purpose of working these music festivals was to find myself and finally do something with my life that I love. Yet every time I come back home, I have a constant reminder of the close minded and selfish people I used to hang around. Hearing those words reassured me that I am making the right decision.

As they closed their set, they paid tribute to Bob Marley and sang "Every little thing is gonna be alright." I closed my eyes, danced and knew it too. Everything is going to be alright.

The Black Keys

This was my second time seeing The Black Keys but nothing can compare to this one. I saw them at Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh a year ago but this year I got to experience them on the beach of Gulf Shores, Alabama as the red full moon was above the ocean.

It's amazing what seeing one of your favorite bands can do to your psyche. You forget about the minimal stresses you deal with daily and you take it all in. Saltwater taste on my tongue and singing along to my favorite lyrics filled my mouth rather than the talk of rumors that others are so obsessed with. In my eyes was the full moon, the stars above me in the sky and the rising rock stars ahead of me on the stage. In my ears were the sounds of the waves crashing and the beautiful music of The Black Keys. I felt a wave of calm crash over me as the waves of the sea smashed onto the beach.

The played an incredible set list including "Howlin' for you," "Lonely Boy," and "Next Girl" and closed the night with a 4 song encore as fireworks lit up the beach sky ahead.

Be sure to check out their newest album "Turn Blue" and follow them on Twitter for upcoming concerts and updates.

I'll be seeing them again in September back at Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, but I know nothing will ever compare to this night in May. It was magical.

Gary Clark Jr.

I had listened to Gary Clark Jr. before and I knew I enjoyed his music but something special happens when you see an artist live and really experience their raw talent.

Being just a few feet away from his unbelievable guitar playing sent chills down my spine and honestly brought tears to my eyes.

I feel like I hopped into a time machine for a minute and was watching Jimi Hendrix play at WoodStock.

He's described as a multi-faceted artist who kills it in every genre. He can rap, he can sing the blues, he can shred on the guitar like a rock god, he has one of the most soulful voices I've ever heard. He had two acoustic performances on the soundtrack for 12 Years a Slave.

He was a man of few words for the audience but his lyrics resonated books in my head.

If you haven't given this man a listen, I ask that you do so now. He is one of the most talented acts I saw all weekend.

Dawes

Friday afternoon on the HangOut stage after a morning of dancing to reggae and jazz type music, I got to discover a folksy/rock band that I fell in love with, Dawes.

The brothers in this band reign from Los Angeles, California but their sound takes you to the middle of the mountains.

As I'm standing there and really enjoying their music, I had to jot down a few lyrics of songs I knew I needed to hear again.

"If I Wanted Someone" and "Right on Time" are definitely worth a listen.

For my fellow Pittsburghers, if you enjoy American folk rock, Dawes will be playing a show Sunday May 25th in Munhall, Pa with special guest Conor Oberst at the Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall.

Balkan Beat Box

Balkan Beat Box is another band I had the privilege of discovering at HangOut Fest. This very talented and unique group is an Israeli music group that has an electronic, punk rock and Mediterranean sound.

They got the crowd really moving when their sax player started playing the sax from the popular song, "Talk Dirty to Me."

Their discography includes their self titled album along with Nu Med, Nu Made (remixes), Blue Eyed Black Boy and Give.

I really got into their sound and I hope they gained more fans over this last weekend because they deserve it. You can follow them on Twitter @BalkanBeatBox to keep up with upcoming shows and news.

Ozomatli

Ozomatli was the first band I got to see at HangOut fest and they were awesome. When they mentioned this was the band's 19 year anniversary, I was confused. I researched that and found out that this band has been around since the late 90's and I was shocked I had never heard of them before. I immediately made a note in my journal to purchase some of their music when I got home because their sound hit me.

They were great at pumping up the crowd and had the perfect sound to match the beach atmosphere. One of the guys from the band got down onto the beach and into the crowd. The entire crowd was feeling their vibe and I'm sure everyone can agree they are perfect dancing music. Their sounds are a mix of salsa, jazz, reggae and rap.

Their latest record is called "Place in the Sun" and it definitely worth checking out. Ozomatli had a perfect place in the sun on the HangOut stage and they gained many new fans.

Enjoy Incubus- A Tribute from NJ

Well folks, my hardest assignment yet. If you haven't figure it out yet, incubus is my absolute favorite band. I know every line to every song, rarity and b-side they've ever created. I collect books and magazines in which they are featured. I have guitar pics and ticket stubs saved. I admit I have a few pictures of their lead singer framed in my bedroom. I have two incubus inspired tattoos. Does that say enough?

They are the most multi-faceted and talented band to ever grace this earth. Each album they've created is so different from another yet their lyrics always speak to me. I grew up with incubus. When I was in elementary school my grandfather used to get those Columbia House cd pamphlets in the mail where you could pick 10 cds for around $10 bucks. He let me choose a cd one time and I randomly picked "A Fungus Amougus." Anyone that really knows this album would probably laugh when I say that is the album that made me fall in love with their sound. It was unlike anything I ever heard before. Fast forward 6+ albums later and almost 20 years, (HOLY SHIT I'M GETTING OLD), incubus is still creating amazing music unlike anything else out there.

When incubus goes on a hiatus, they are still creating music. Last year I was privileged enough to see their bass player, Ben Kenney perform his solo stuff at the Hard Rock Cafe in Pittsburgh. Lead singer, Brandon Boyd has released a few solo albums and books with his artwork. Mike Einziger, one of the world's greatest guitarists, is a composer and wrote two orchestras and played acoustic guitar on Avicii's "Wake Me Up." Just to name a few things, they are constantly perfecting their craft.

But for someone who is absolutely obsessed with incubus, what are they to do when they go on these hiatus for over a year? Be patient? YEAH RIGHT. I could listen to any and all of their albums from track one until the end and then on repeat, but I need more.

Then I stumbled upon a cover band. Enjoy Incubus. They reign from New Jersey and holy shit, they rocked my world. This has been my toughest review because it is unbelievably hard to measure up to the band that I worship.

No one can hit the notes that Brandon Boyd does. He has one of the most original voices I've ever heard. But damn, does Chris Rossomando give it his all. I closed my eyes for a moment while listening to their cover of "New Skin" and thought for a second I was listening to the real thing. Not only can he almost hit those high and awkward notes that Brandon Boyd is known for, he can sing great on their acoustic covers as well. And that takes talent. Their acoustic cover of "Wish You Were Here" is absolutely beautiful.

And they aren't just covering the easy stuff like "Pardon Me." These guys are covering some of incubus' toughest songs like "Deep Inside." To play the bass like Ben Kenney is something only true funk masters can do. Oren Levi of Enjoy Incubus sounds just as good. I would even compare him to incubus' original bassist, Dirk Lance. I was amazed.

If you haven't heard of Incubus' lead guitarist, Mike Einziger, then you probably don't know much about the guitar world. He is one of the best. To be able to play in a cover band and duplicate his talent is almost unheard of. But Jose Valenica does it. He shreds that guitar in their cover of "Sick Sad Little World."

Lastly, the man kicking the jams and holding the band together is Rich Fuentes on drums. Jose Pasillas of incubus is an amazing drummer. Seeing him perform live from the first row a few years ago gave me a new found respect for the art of drumming. Rich is just as talented. He really is the backbone of the band and his drumming skills are evident in their cover of Anna Molly.

For those of you who love incubus, check them out. Enjoy Incubus in a new way with these guys from New Jersey.



Like their page on Facebook to see where they are performing next.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Enjoy-Incubus-Tribute-NJ/610331479029086

And definitely take a listen to some of their covers on their soundcloud page.
https://soundcloud.com/enjoyincubusnj

When the Dust Settles- CounterPoint 2014

For a majority of the population, music festivals mean one thing: drugs. Within the last few years, these gatherings have started to hold a negative rep because deaths have occurred within their gates and some say police force isn't strong enough within their walls. But, drugs are always going to be on our streets and innocent citizens have died at the slight of our police forces hands. So why do these artistic meetups gain such a negative connotation? Those who attend music festivals come for more than just the party. They come to escape reality. To let their true alter-egos shine. To meet their soulmates. To dance the night away. To not worry about money. To be free if only for a few short days.

I'm here to spread the positive word about these festivals and prove that the people that get together from all across the world to gather at these weekend camp-outs are one big family all about peace and love. I want to write each piece so vividly that if you attended the festival, you get chills thinking about your amazing weekend again. Or if you've never attended a music festival before, my piece will inspire you to think about it. Or at the very least, change your mind on their atmosphere.

I attended my first music festival last summer in Michigan at Electric Forest. There are no words to describe that weekend other than life changing. It's an experience I will never forget. From that day I knew I had to share the word about my experiences there. I had to let people know of a life that exists outside of the office. I knew I had to attend more music festivals.

To accomplish my piece on the culture of music festivals, I decided to work at them this summer to gain a different perspective. 

I just came back from working Counterpoint Music Festival in Kingston Downs, Georgia. After an 8 hour drive to get the work shuttle then another 3 hours on a bus we were almost there.

Imagine the city in your rear view mirror and nothing but a dirt road for miles in your view ahead. You and a line of cars get to the gates. The dirt is already swirling outside and your car that you just cleaned for your roadtrip has a thin layer of dust. You get out of your vehicle to get it checked to make sure you aren't bringing in glass bottles or weapons and you trace a heart with your finger in the dirt on your car. You're here. You leave everything behind and come inside with nothing but your wristband and an open mind. 

You drive a little more and find your spot in Tent City. You look to the left and you look to the right and you meet your neighbors. These people will be your family and best friends the next few days. You help each other pitch your tents, share a drink or a smoke and you smile. They know nothing about you. You know nothing about them. The cleanest thing you'll have all weekend is your slate. No predispositions and absolutely no judgments. 

The walkway to Tent City. Coutnerpoint.

Music blasting, flags flying and laughter fills your senses. You venture up the hill with hundreds of your closest friends to the venue gates and enter a whole new world.

                            Welcome home.

Once you walked through the gates out of tent city you were in the market district. The general store sold sunscreen and bug spray, the food vendors had the most delicious breakfast burritos, pizza, pad thai and anything else in between. 

Climb the hill a little more and you arrive at the first stage. You see people dancing but you hear no music. You approach the gate, get the headphones placed on your head and you then can hear what the DJ is spinning and you begin to join the dancing crowd. Welcome to the Silent Disco. A hidden treasure at a lot of music festivals.

It's time to explore what the vendors are selling. Want to get your body dipped in glow in the dark paint? Need to trade festival pins? Want to buy a piece of jewelry made out of a piece of nature like a pinecone? You've come to the right place. Each and every item for sale here can't have an appropriate price. Not only are you purchasing something unique you are prolonging your memories of this weekend with whatever you adorn.

And finally it's time to get into the crowd and see the artist of your choice. The lights and the sounds are almost too surreal. Is that Danny Tanner's face I see in the crowd? No, no, that's Jesse Costopoulos. People are yelling for their lost friend, but I'm pretty sure he's in the forest. Some must have forgotten their bug spray because they keep asking for a back scratcher...

Festival Map

Friday night after working my 12 hour shift, I got to see Pretty Lights and he never ceases to amaze me. This time, Derek Vincent Smith was accompanied by his live band. The light show and the vibes from the crowd were absolutely amazing. I can honestly say that I saw this set completely sober. You do not need the drugs or the alcohol to dance and enjoy this kind of music. This music is my drug. And I was higher than I've ever been.

(Pretty Lights at Counterpoint 4/24/14)

After Pretty Lights, I saw Krewella. They give a whole new meaning to Girl Power. It is awe inspiring to see those two women on stage seriously "Killin' It." They pumped up the crowd and destroyed their set. I honestly got chills seeing them. 

I wish I could have seen more acts but I did have to work at the festival. The full line up for Friday was awesome and then you remember you still have two more days.

                         

Saturday I had the privilege of catching some of Foster the People, and I heard them say how they love playing festivals because it brings the best people together in a positive atmosphere that become a community.

I caught some of STS9, Wolfgang Gartner and Griz too. Each act I saw was unique and left me speechless. I have to say though that Griz is a favorite of mine. He gets up on stage with his Sax and makes love to the crowd. That was the funkiest set of the weekend. 

Sunday Funday had a slight delay because of severe thunderstorms. After a few hours of rain, they opened the entrance again and the show was back on the road. Phantogram was absolutely amazing and their chillwave went perfectly with the aura of the passing rain. Flosstradamus murdered their set and left people limping afterwards from dancing so hard. Then the headliners came on for their home reunion. Outkast. It was an absolute honor to be there for their homecoming. 

"You can plan a pretty picnic, but you can't predict the weather."

(Toto, we're not in Counterpoint anymore 4/27/14)

The weekend comes to an end and you are a changed person. Whether this was your first festival or not, you will never be the same. You've seen things and had conversations you could have never dreamed of.

I asked a guy I met this weekend who goes by the name of K2 what makes him keep coming back and he said, 
"A music festival is a dream you'll always remember."

You pack up your car, get back on the road and face reality again. But you are forever changed. Your mind has been opened to new opportunities, you have met people you'll never forget and you are prepared to face whatever challenges life will throw at you.

Next up: Hangout Music Fest in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Keep up with me on this journey to learn more about the behind the scenes workings of these festivals. Don't worry, I don't plan on exposing the magical secrets, that's for you to figure out yourself.

The East Coast Freshman

The title of this mixtape that dropped last night is perfect.

"Who is that freshman?" I can hear the girls saying.

"Who's the new kid?" The dudes say with a tinge of jealousy.

The East Coast Freshman is just that. Fresh. New. Exciting. And will have you talking. 

So who is this new kid on the block? He's a down to earth guy from Pittsburgh, Pa with the heart of (black and) gold. He loves to party but is one of the hardest working people I know.

He's T Wolf (Shawn Rumbaugh) and he's about to shine all over the steel city. T Wolf encompasses the new face of the rap world but pays homage to where he's come from.

"I'm still the kid that started rapping in my dad's attic and I'm still the kid that will rap at parties for fun, but now I have a face, I have a movement, I have a name."

Just two years ago to date he dropped his debut mixtape, "Frat House of Clowns" and it finished Datpiff top 8. With only one day of being released, his newest mixtape has already had thousands of listens and a lot of positive feedback. 

"It's kind of surreal when I look back and see all the progress from then until now. I've been working on my craft, perfecting my music, built my fanbase and branded my movement. It's just the beginning."

" Now I start stuntin' "

The Stay Dope movement is all about positivity and hard work. Balancing fun and work at the same time. Lighting the candle at both ends. Learning how to work all day and party all night. And when you do something you love, you can't even call it work.

I asked Shawn if he had any advice for upcoming artists and he said, "Don't listen to anyone but your gut feelings. Never stop pushing. Don't settle on being content. Don't rest. What you want is possible regardless of what the 99% say. If you truly believe you're a part of the 1% then show the others you can do it. We can't explain what we do because we're a different breed. We speak a different language and expect different things. We stay dope."


You can checkout The East Coast Freshman at

http://www.datpiff.com/T-Wolf-The-East-Coast-Freshman-mixtape.607959.html

and follow him on Twitter @OfficialTwolf for updates and more.