coachella – Surfing the Soundwaves

NOW OPEN: CLUB JUL

Umm…hello?? Is this thing on?? Oop.

Yes, it’s me again. Back from the grave…that I evidently dug myself into. Funny how that works isn’t it? Anyways, before we really talk about what Club Jul is…let’s talk about the stupid stuff first. I mean, I have been gone since the middle of the Summer. I’ll let that sink in. For me. Because wtf.

Okay, so LOTS has changed since July. I finally FLEW THE COOP. Yep, moved out of the parentals unit. That was only in October, though. So, clearly I can’t blame that for my extended hiatus. If we’re being completely honest, I wrote the title of this post on November 18th, it’s now 3 weeks later. I truly have no idea what Club Jul is, but we’re going to roll with today’s version.

When I was writing over the Summer, I was touching on how hard it was for me, with the music industry being shut down. Especially when I was temporarily laid off. Whether I let the busy work schedule get the best of me again, or actually lost myself, I can’t really say. Maybe it was a combination of both, but I think we’re reset. Part of me has lost the little flame I once had to consistently write. I mean, all my content thrives on me making stupid decisions at music festivals. IT’S MY BRAND. Now my brand revolves around naming candles based on my dislike for men. Quite the contradiction, right? I can’t stand men, but here I am talking about them 24/7. ESPECIALLY, if they’re a musician. Honestly, cancel me. I deserve it.

So, what led me to sit here in this guest bedroom and start a little storytime? Honestly, just that. BEING ALONE. After a chaotic week, and past few months, I truly realize how much I miss my rare bursts of alone time. Where I’m stuck with my thoughts, and my Spotify, and I can just CREATE. However, I don’t owe it all to that. While I did create this post in freaking November, everyone’s Spotify Wrapped came out last week. Let me tell you, that shit sparked a FLAME in me. One that I thought died out many months ago, for the foreseeable future. Shall I explain more?

Everyone who has negative brain cells LOVES to shit on Spotify Wrapped. I mean, who wants to see their friends passionate about something, right?? WOW SO GROSS AND LAME AND UNCOOL TO POST ABOUT SOMETHING YOU LOVE. Literally the people who talk shit on Spotify posts, are the same people who go and post ten stories about their new car muffler. I’m looking right at you Ford F150 owners. I keep my mouth shut about your ugly little pee pee energy truck, so please stop crying about Spotify Wrapped. It’s old. Hating music is such a tired out trend. We get it you’re underground and like to listen to the sounds of rocks scraping together in your little cave. WE GET IT. However, it really made me feel something. I need to talk about it.

Not to be depressing, but my life has been so lackluster. I mean, I wake up, go to my living room to work, and go back to bed. Hit repeat. While I love my job, it’s getting harder to even perform creatively when my favorite outlets are considered dangerous now. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, if Coachella needs a guinea pig to test a festival on…I WILL BE THERE. Corona doesn’t want me, it’s probably a man that heard me talking shit about it. I’ll be fine. So…ya. I have gone through little bouts of semi-depressive episodes. Then I sit and think about my life’s path. Why? Don’t know. Everytime I do that it always leads me to one place. Sitting in my car, driving down PCH, blasting music. Literally the one thing that moves me. Don’t even MAKE me bring up Ocean Drive right now. I wish I could find that song in human form. What an annoying day that would be for all of you…not me. Anyways, last week my Spotify Wrapped came out. To say I didn’t immediately start crying would be a lie, but I also don’t want to give astrologers the satisfaction of knowing that I, a Cancer, was crying. It doesn’t happen often, but mainly when I’m really happy. I’m no simp. So, I’m sitting there, tears streaming, realizing that this year my playlist is STUNNING. What I thought was such an awful year, musically, turned out to be one of my best. Who would have ever known. While I’ve been trying to live my best life given the circumstances, it’s been a little tough trying to find lighter fluid to get me going. UNTIL LAST WEEK. It’s like night and day.

I knew at this point, I had to update one of my playlists. It’s what all my friends and family know me for. Well, I guess that’s a little dramatic. They know me, but they REALLY know this side of me. Strangers probably just think I’m a G-Eazy fan account. I very well might be, don’t trip. So, what better way to start this new journey at the end of the year, than with BBE. For those of you who clearly aren’t with it, BBE stands for Bad Bitch Energy. Men, you are allowed to possess this quality too. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. If you’re in my life reading this though, you are a certified rat. So, unfortunately, you can listen to this playlist…you just won’t be able to obtain any power from it. Sorry sweeties.

BBE truly gives you the ego boost you need, while occasionally keeping you humble. Right now, I am OBSESSED with the song “Bitter” by FLETCHER and Trevor Daniel. For some reason, I cannot stop beating that song to shit. Right when I think I’m done listening to it on repeat…I come right back. To some degree I feel like I’m morphing into FLETCHER with our coincidental outfit accessory purchases. So, hopefully when you hear that song on there, it resonates with you in some creepy way like that. Of course we have tons of powerful female voices on there, but we also have the classics. The songs that make me feel like I’m dancing in Indio. With my best friends. This playlist is for the people who are just trying to feel something. Whether that something is closure. Or maybe it’s power. It could even be the ego boost you need to run your ex over with a piano, Grand Theft Auto style. I DON’T KNOW YOUR LIFE. Whatever lights your fire, that’s what I want this to be. If it’s not…f you. Kidding…kinda.

So, unfortunately for all the bitch boys…I will be linking my Spotify Wrapped down below. This is also your formal invitation to send me yours. Whether you think I like your genre of music or not. You could be surprised, and I could be too. Sending music is sorta my love language. I don’t care if I like it or not, just the fact that you thought of me…*swoon.* I’ll also be sharing BBE below, we all know it. We all love it, but we have to appreciate her makeover.

Now this time, it isn’t ‘til next time. It’s SEE YOU POOP HEADS SOOOOON!

WE GOTTA TALK…

HELLO MY FRIENDS. It’s been so long…but actually. I think this may be my longest streak of not blogging here. Usually, I’m apologizing after a month of silence, but not today. I’m not apologizing! I’m going to tell you instead where I’ve been. I haven’t strayed too far from the blogging scene, don’t worry. Also, we’re going to dive into some music related things, like usual. However, today, I want to keep it real with you. 2020 IS REALLY HOEING ME LET ME TELL YOU WHY.

As I sit here with my Chai Latte (iced of course), I can’t help but think about the person I was before this pandemic. Even the person I was at the beginning of it all. I was enjoying my isolation bubble, and blogging about new music. Don’t get me wrong I STILL LOVE NEW MUSIC. The isolation bubble? Not so much anymore. Working from home is starting to take a toll on me. Even if I have a full day at the office not talking to anyone, I vibe off other people. Now all I can vibe off is my robot vacuum. He’s a real hoot. However, I’M STILL BLOGGING. If you haven’t seen me on here, you can check me out on Absolute Merch. I’ll link it down below don’t worry. I’ve been causing a ruckus over there. Just me running the media show, and I love it. Some days.

So, why am I reflecting to you? I’m sure a lot of you are not the same person you were in May. That’s when I last checked in. For me, I’ve seen a serious decline in my mental health. It’s time to get real about it. If you know me, you know that music festivals and concerts aren’t just a quirky aesthetic I like to participate in. It’s my livelihood. There was a point when I had $30 in my bank account, an almost maxed out credit card, and I was still making my way to a festival. The concept of time and money doesn’t matter to me in that world, and I’m not going to lie, I miss it a lot. I know I’m not special. The people I work with, and the artists we represent, miss it just as much if not more. However, for me, it’s hard to find my way without it. Some of you like to go on nature escapes, read books, travel alone, etc. That’s your break from reality. Festivals and concerts are mine. Now I’ll admit, there are things that have happened in the last couple of years, that I have greatly suppressed. I AM THE PROCRASTINATION QUEEN LET ME TELL YA. So, now that I have copious amounts of time, all that dark shit is coming back. It’s not fun, and trust me, I am trying to work on it. We all know, mental health is a struggle. Right now, more than ever, it’s probably a bigger deal than miss Rona. We just don’t hear about it on CNN.

It’s hard. Let me just say that. Some weeks are amazing, I feel on top of the world and no amount of hate comments on Twitter can get to me. Other days, it greatly affects my personal work performance. I mean who really wants to spend all day excited writing about new music, just to have a customer shit on your post because they’re impatient? NOT ME. PROBABLY NOT YOU EITHER. So, it’s exhausting. However, I ain’t a bitch. I’m not going to quit just because some old man hates me for the day. Not worth it. With the help of some friends, this week I realized there is a lot to look forward to. While the news is making it seem like this pandemic is forever, it’s not. Will things get back to normal? Probably not, but this is our new normal, so we need to adapt. Festivals and concerts WILL come back. Whether it seems like it or not. That’s a HUGE thing to look forward to. Especially working in the industry I am in, the moment those festival gates open is going to be euphoric.

In brighter news, this pandemic has really brought out a lot of new music. The artists are hurting in their souls, and it’s creating some beautiful sounds. I will say, I have definitely tapped into some of my old bops, it’s amazing. If you are new here, you won’t know that I make an annual birthday playlist for myself. I’m my own muse, c’mon now. I keep it for the whole year, occasionally adding songs. However, I make it to encapsulate what I want my next year on Earth to sound like. For my 25th, I put together all my old Summer bops into one playlist. I mean, hot girl Summer 2020 is pretty much cancelled. So, why not pretend we are in the past. Enjoying late nights, bike rides, and bar hopping. It should remind you of that Summer feeling we all are chasing. It’s universal and nobody really knows what the feeling really is. However, going after it is the most memorable part.

So, if you ever think of me on a random day, and wonder why I am not present, check on my work page. I will always be there, schemin. I actually am now so comfortable over there that I am calling men wieners and explaining hot girl Summer to my audience. I’m not sure if they love it or hate it yet, but we’re getting somewhere.

As always, remember mental health is so important. Please take care of yourself and take as many breaks as you need. The world needs you here and needs all of you! Don’t worry, I’ll be back very soon to talk about the new bops that have come out. Also, just because we can’t leave the house, doesn’t mean hot girl Summer is cancelled. WE’RE GUNA TALK ABOUT THAT TOO LADIES AND WIENERS.

‘Til next timeeeeeeeeeeee

Find me on my work page here:

https://absolutemerch.com/blogs/news

My 25 Cent Crisis Playlist here:

CLUELESS HUNNY

Does anyone feel like they don’t have anything figured out right now? While at first it was a little disturbing, now it feels kind of comforting. Am I right? Now, it’s not just me wandering Earth, aimlessly, with no purpose. IT’S ALL OF US.

Suddenly, I am reverting back to my old music choices, and I can’t tell if I love that for me, or hate it. I’ll keep you posted.

In light of being locked away in my room like Rapunzel, I have been watching a lot of movies. This past week, I found myself stuck on Clueless. How does Cher just seem to have it so together all the time? As if. She would for SURE know how to make light of this quarantine situation, I know it.

So, it got me thinking. Maybe quarantine is the perfect time to get a clue. We are no strangers to those quotes that talk about how being lost is a great way to find yourself. You know what I’m talking about. The quotes that give major “Live, Laugh, Love” energy. Quarantine may be the perfect time to try it? Before this pandemic hit, I really felt like I had my life together. Now, I am starting to realize, I am STILL getting my shit together. Without any bars or festivals, what else am I supposed to do? Soul search apparently.

Moral of my pointless rant, is it’s okay to be clueless. Honestly, life is way more fun that way. When you have no set plan, it leaves more room for crazy adventures. Something I personally am lacking lately.

Since I can’t be dancing away in the middle of the desert right now, RIP what would have been my first EDC. Where else do I want to get lost? IF YOU ARE THINKING MY SPOTIFY, YOU’RE RIGHT.

I know I’ve briefly mentioned what it’s like to fall into a Spotify hole before. However, with the app always changing, I discover new ways to dive deep every day. Some may say I’m bad at math, but then how do you explain me always tricking my algorithm? I’ll wait. Anyways, I know I’ve taught you about the “recommended” tabs at the bottom of a playlist. I hope you’re still using that wisely when you run out of tunes. There is also the old tried and true, song radios. Where you pick a song you’ve been blasting lately, and it generates other songs you would love based off of it. It’s truly genius.

Lately, I’ve been doing none of the above. Literally just getting lost in Spotify. I’ve brought back a mix of my Indie tunes, to pair chaotically with my EDM. So, my recommended music doesn’t know what side to pick. That’s okay bb, I gotchu.

In light of my cluelessness, I’ve stumbled upon the weirdest playlists. We all know how much I adore Mint Canada, and I genuinely cannot tell you why. However, I genuinely recommend getting out of your comfort zone and going to a different realm for your tunes. While I SHOULD make a separate post about the joys of finding new small artists, I’ll give you a little glimpse here. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself clicking artists names, browsing their selection and heading back. HOWEVER, if you’re feeling crazy, you can just keep clicking artists that are similar to the artist you clicked. Suddenly, you’ve been on Spotify for 3 hours, and you don’t even know where home base is. It’s a point of no return if you will. A really fun and safe way to lose yourself. If you’re feeling clueless like me.

So, if you really want to get a clue and movies just aren’t your thing, TURN TO MUSIC. Even if it’s Apple Music, I won’t judge…

Stay tuned for more comedy in the coming weeks, while becoming quarantine clueless, I’ve still managed to be wild.

Until next time you clueless little bb’s!

TWERK OUT

Guys…I think I just hit the jackpot?? MUSIC WORKOUTS. I know, I know. You have probably already seen these before, but if you haven’t, I hope you’re as excited as me.

So, here I am, 10pm on what would usually be a wild Friday night out at the bars. Instead, I am sitting in bed watching a girl create workouts based on popular songs we all know and love. Turn down for what, am I right??

Seriously though, this shit is genius. Of course, I got roped in by seeing a song by The Weeknd first. After that, I was sold. She goes by MadFit, and without even trying her workouts yet, I am obsessed. You know it’s the first thing I am going to be doing tomorrow.

If you’re like me, you’re looking for any reason to dance. This pandemic tragically took away any form of concert and music festival for the remaining year. I won’t talk your ear off about it anymore than i already have. Promise. However, as much as working out from the comfort of my own living room sounds amazing, I need more of a party. Since ya know, we can’t actually rage anywhere right now. This is everything anyone could ever ask for. Not only do you get to dance to your favorite beat, but also burn calories! My favorite.

Now, if you aren’t necessarily looking for the dance party vibe, and don’t want to feel left out, she also has regular workouts as well. Something I really enjoy about these is that they’re short. Which means you can combine a bunch of them and create a little workout playlist. Or, if you’re not up for that, you can just do one as a warm-up or cool down. You really have free reign to do whatever you want with these, which is awesome. For my friends who cannot get to the gym right now, and may not have the means to pay for online classes, these are for you! For my current gym buddies, let’s add these into our daily routines too!

If you REALLY want to ramp it up, and I mean ten fold. I recommend working out to your favorite DJ’s sets on youtube. For example, the other day, I was listening to Loud Luxury’s Room Service Set while on a walk. I noticed that every song was fast paced, just begging for my heart rate to skyrocket. So, I came home, hijacked my sister’s indoor spin bike and went to town. It was amazing. I almost threw up, so you KNOW it was a killer workout. The set will be linked below for all my cardi-hoes. Get it? Wink wink. However, if you’re just a person of your own groove, or want a little more muscle toning tunes, I HAVE A PLAYLIST FOR THAT. You’re welcome in advance. Will also be linked below.

I’m keeping today’s post short and sweet, and concluding with three of my favorite workouts of MadFit. As well as Loud Luxury’s set. OH AND, my own twerky werky playlist. That way, instead of wasting time listening to me babble about it, you can be about it! Let me know if you try any of these, and let me know if you love them like me! Let’s get movin’ babyyyyyyy.

MADFIT:

LOUD LUXURY SET:

MY OWN PERSONAL SET:

Coachella – A Look Back

As you can tell from the title, we are about to take a fun trip down memory lane. I actually let out a little chuckle when forming the name of this disaster piece. It sounds so serious. When in reality, I am going to sum up MY Coachella for you. Not from the documentary, not Diplo’s experience, but little ol’ me.

Why not start from the beginning?

2014. This is about to be my first music festival ever, this is the year that released my inner “COACHELLA IS MY LIIIIIIIFE” beast. All it took was one weekend. I think this year was so special, because it just encapsulated my year of firsts. Concluding my first year of college, my first year of living out of state, with my first festival. Get this, nothing went wrong. When you are new to the Indio Valley festival, everything feels so dreamy. It’s hard to even focus on the blood dripping down your ankles, from the poor choice in sandals. You just feel so free! This lineup was just a flower crown wearing bitch’s dream. Lana Del Rey, Disclosure, Lorde, Foster the People, and so many more. Honestly, looking at the poster right now, you can tell the lineup was way less impacted. Less artists, for more time to see everyone. It’s hard to pick a favorite for me from that year, everyone was so amazing. However, if you look at the 2014 lineup compared to 2020, it proves my theory correct. I have this conspiracy in my head that every few years, the lineup repeats itself. Don’t believe me? Take a look for yourself. I’ll wait.

2015, we skipped. As you can imagine, my little heart was broken. I was just starting to get into The Weeknd, I know, I was late. However, when I first start listening to an artist, I am infatuated. My friends at the time, didn’t understand. Honestly, I’m not really sure they still do?? Does anyone?? Oh wow. Anyways, so we didn’t go, I threw a tantrum. Next.

2016, everyone’s favorite year of mine. HONESTLY, I am going to come out and say that this was the most iconic Coachella. I mean, yes, the lineup was insane. Like Guns N Roses?? Iconic. Ahem, if you would like to take a look at my conspiracy theory again…go ahead and compare 2014 to this lineup as well. Again, I’ll wait! So, if you are really new here, I will link below one of my first tales on here. “Pineapple Cider In Indio.” One of my best works, if I do say so myself. I need you to read that first, and then we can meet back here. Okay? Okay. With it being 4 years later, I can confidently say, I still have not had Pineapple Cider again. I just know the flavor will take me back to that hot desert. However, it may be kinda funny. Should I try them again for old times sake? Shit. Maybe I did blackout off of two ciders that year. Maybe that blackout was a product of heatstroke. We will never know. All I know is, Matt and Kim will never be the same. Honestly, I haven’t even really listened to their music since then either. Again, IF YOU KNOW YOU KNOW.

2017, our last year of college baby! Also, our last year of Coachella as a trio. For those of you who don’t know. I used to frequent concerts with my two best friends, Alex and Summer. Rightfully so, they decided to tap out after this year. Again, I wrote about it, will link down below. For a little recap though, this was the first year we decided to try car camping. NEVER AGAIN HUNNIES. The phrase, “You live and you learn,” really came into play here. Lineup wise? Fantastic. Beyoncé decided she didn’t want to give birth on stage, and I think we all kind of resent her a little bit for that. Lady Gaga was her replacement though, and personally, I think she’s amazing. Did we go see her? Nope! We had other things to do. Like carrying around a haunted purse for the weekend. Confused? Good. To make a long story short, Summer found a purse on the ground and decided to carry it around. Waiting for the perfect time to take it to lost and found, which honestly was inconvenient to our busy schedules. However, once we obtained that purse, we realized maybe it was better lost. Bad shit on bad shit kept happening to us. Right up until we turned the purse back in. Oh you want me to explain what I mean? Almost immediately after we got the lost item, our friend’s phone vanished. Poof. You wanted to take a video of the next set? Sorry. Super bummer. THEN. Guys…..then. Our campsite caught on fire. I literally cannot make this stuff up. Alex decided that Ramen was a good idea for camping. Which, I agreed. However, the mini stove she brought with had other plans. Like to simply blow up. As if our tent living was not impoverished enough. Just look at the cover photo for this post. Enough said.

2018, honestly the year that changed my life. I didn’t even go to Coachella this year. Alex and Summer decided enough was enough. However, ONCE AGAIN, The Weeknd was on the lineup. Insert X-Files theme song here. I was in full tantrum mode. I’m talking crying at work tantrum mode, then taking shots all night. Classic! However, a beam of light. Life is Beautiful Festival. That was my redemption moment, and I cannot thank Alex and Summer enough for unintentionally giving me a push to try something new.

2019, the last Coachella. LOL. I’m being so dramatic. However, it feels like 2020 doesn’t count for anything right now, so it’s true. This is my first Coachella with my new lil squad. Alana and Emily. More always join, but the three of us stay constant, and stay connected at the hip. It’s not like one of us totally has a little fun with our girl Molly and thinks that it’s time to run around and make friends with strangers. Who would do that? Psh. This is their first Coachella, and I feel like I put it on myself. While at this point, I am favoring Life is Beautiful a tad more, I don’t let on. It’s freaking Coachella, you can feel the hype all throughout the air. Oh what’s that? Chuck from Gossip Girl just casually walked by to get some water? NO BIGGIE. Lineup? Phenomenal. This was the year I really tapped into my EDM phase. As a true Dillon Francis groupie, I must say, Sunday night was the winner for me. However, my friends introduced me to Gryffin this trip, and my life hasn’t been the same since.

ALL IN ALL. I know this is a really sad time for music festival lovers out there. People call us basic, and hate us for our singing Instagram videos. I get it. However, waking up this morning, I decided I didn’t want to think about the negative. It’s all that is going around right now. Instead, I am using COVID-19 to re-center, and think about how grateful I am. We all work hard to make our festival dreams come true. Or, if you’re like me, you spend money you don’t have and reap the consequences of debt for a year. Whatever your flow is, we will be dancing soon. Hell, we can even be dancing now. So many good live streams for the Indie lover, or the EDM lover. Just tune in, and disconnect for a second. I promise, it slightly helps. Just a little.

https://surfingthesoundwaves.com/2018/05/18/pineapple-cider-in-indio/

https://surfingthesoundwaves.com/2018/05/30/burnin-up-in-indio/

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE AFTER HOURS?

The Weeknd dropped his album ten days ago, and I am now finally ready to talk about it. Technically, he released three bonus tracks yesterday (March 30), which I still haven’t fully digested. However, the show must go on.

If you’re wondering how I am writing this so calmly, it’s because on Day 1, I spilled wine all over my computer in excitement. My 2013 Macbook almost did not recover from that, truly. Also, not going to lie, this album has me moody as hell. The lyrics are dark and sad, in OG Abel fashion. However, the beat is bangin. So, clearly, my mind and my body are in two different stages. Do we want to dance or cry? I guess in quarantine both is acceptable. Also, can I just point out that the music hits so different while being locked inside your house. You have no choice but to digest the lyrics quicker. My usual method of operation is to drive around and listen to a new album. Sounds like a total waste of gas and extremely pointless, but IT’S MY GROOVE AND I LIKE IT. However, driving with the windows down and music blasting, is a little less appealing with a nasty virus circulating.

Okay let’s get into it, bonus tracks included.

So, here’s the deal with The Weeknd. His albums are meant to tell a story. Same goes for his music videos. If you check out his Youtube channel, start with Heartless. Every recent video after that picks up where the last one left off. Keep this in mind as we move down the line of songs.

We start off with the track, “Alone Again.” Yep, you already know this shit is going to be sad. However, you keep going, because you’re addicted to his voice. I won’t go track by track, because you lazy asses can do that yourself. For this album, The Weeknd went rogue with his promo. From teasing songs on his Instagram stories, to full on performing an unreleased song on SNL, we really had no idea where he was going. He debuted “Scared To Live,” on SNL, as a shock to everyone. My initial reaction was, am I a fake fan?? I assumed this song had been out for ages, and I just missed it. However, upon taking to Twitter, I realized it was brand new. It was lovely. The song has him really self reflecting, and giving his ex (Bella – we all know), some closure. Admitting he was the reason she was hurting, and that she shouldn’t be scared to go live her life without him. WHAT A KING.

The album gets a little darker, before we can all start dancing again. “Escape From LA,” really struck me immediately. It’s honestly a little sad once you realize the parallels from his first album to now. If you are a fan of “The Morning,” you’ll know that he was talking about California being the goal. “Order plane tickets, Cali is the mission…” You know. However, like any other person who moves to LA expecting something spectacular, he is over it. He sings, “Cali was the mission, but now a n**** leavin.” A little sad that this city couldn’t be what he wanted. I will say, growing up in LA’s surrounding areas vs. moving here fresh, sounds like an entirely different experience. If you don’t have the right mindset, all of a sudden you’re stuck with superficial people, wanting to live an Instagrammable life. No substance. However, I think he might be doing just fine.

A cult favorite, “Heartless,” is up next. Here is where he starts to take us home dancing. Also, remember when I mentioned everything telling a story? This chunk of songs is where it becomes clear. Initially, I had no idea. After seeing a well thought out Reddit thread, I finally saw the light. In this track he talks about being back to his old ways. Money, sex, and drugs. Casual! The next song, while still an absolute bop, gets a little dark. The end we hear sirens, which leads into another favorite, “Blinding Lights.” Here’s where the Reddit thread threw me for a loop. APPARENTLY the lights that are blinding him, are the AMBULANCE LIGHTS??? Who knew?? Not me. I was busy Tik Tok dancing to the song.

Let’s talk about the bonus tracks he released only a MERE day ago. I feel like they have been out for longer, because I got lucky when I popped in on his live stream last week. He was playing them like they were nothing. No biggie, just some unreleased songs you guys have never heard. They’re all extremely mellow. Songs about missing his ex. Classic. And then a “Final Lullaby” to end it all. Who doesn’t love a lil sleepy time trio to fuel their six quarantine naps?

I am going to end this by talking out of my ass for a second. Yes, it sucks that everything is cancelled. Yes, it sucks that we are all out of work (or some of us). Also, yes, it sucks that we can’t be social with the ones we love. BUUUUUUT, it doesn’t suck that all our artists are releasing things they’re proud of, even in moments like this. So, let’s take the time to stream their albums, watch their livestream, and give them praise. After all, right now, all we have is music to get us through this. Okay that is probably not true for 99% of people. It feels like it though.

So lastly, wash your hands you disgusting monsters. I don’t know about you, but I am so beyond ready to go to an open plot of land and start dancing.

See you later skaters.

PS: Remember when I saw The Weeknd for the first time? Check below.

2020 New Beginnings

Happy New Year! I thought I would start my first post in 2020 with a little life update. Maybe even take you on a little journey in my personal UFO if that’s okay with you? Throw in a little spicy storytime. Who knows.

So, what is this all about? YOUR GIRL GOT A NEW JOB. I have kept everyone in the dark about this situation, except for my close friends, up until very recently. I just wanted to marinate in the moment, okay?? I didn’t want to wake up and have it all be fake. If you are attentive, I briefly mentioned in my post about Life Is Beautiful, I quit my job to be there. Aren’t I so fun and dramatic? In all reality, I quit my job, and THEN went to have my own celebration at the festival. However, I never really touched base on anything after that. You want to know why? Finding a job was hard as hell that’s why.

Let me backtrack quickly for a second. Upon graduating college, I thought with my thin paper degree, I was set. However, I was brought back to reality, shortly after that thought crossed my mind. For some, finding a job in their career path was actually simple. They had their minds made up in college, and stuck with it. While I always truly knew where my heart was heading, I constantly teetered on if it was “doable.” This is why in college, I didn’t think to look for internships or simple music jobs. I was ignoring my heart and my gut. So, that just meant I was going to have to bust my ass from that moment forward. Which is exactly what I have been doing for the last 2 years. I took a small break after graduation and was ready to grind. I took a small part-time job at a bar in Orange County, which I still hold very near and dear to my heart. While it was only a marketing and promotions position, I figured this title would look great for an entry level music job. I got settled in the job, and continued to look elsewhere. My heart could not rest. I loved the bar and I loved the family that it provided me, but I still felt restless. Coming home from music festivals I was sad, almost like I was longing for more. I MEAN I WAS. I just didn’t know what.

Now, we’re approaching Fall 2019. Life Is Beautiful is around the corner, and my heart is starting to become unhappy. It is becoming increasingly obvious to the people around me. I am no longer where I need to be. While at one point, this job was the first step in the right direction, now it was time to put another foot forward. So, I quit. Didn’t even give my parents more than a 2 weeks notice, like my boss. I set my last day to be right before the music festival, so I could have one last chance to dance. Not forever, c’mon. Just ya know, before I cried every night applying to jobs. If you know me, you know that’s exactly what my sensitive ass did.

I mean, it wasn’t all bad. I did spend countless nights crying in frustration. Wouldn’t you?? If your initial thought was “no,” maybe sit at your computer for 8 hours a day, emailing the void. Now occasionally those emails did produce a response. However, the majority of the response was negative. This is what differentiates 2019 me from 2017 me. In 2017, I would see the rejection, get mad, and quit. This time, I saw the rejection and used it as a fire to spark my next move. Don’t get me wrong though, I still cried…A LOT. All the tears eventually paid off. In early December, I got an interview that would set the tone for my new decade. Upon leaving the interview, I went to visit my best friend at work. I remember telling her I HAD TO HAVE THAT JOB. I have never left an interview feeling like the perfect fit, until that moment. Like everyone should do when looking for a new job, follow up. Seriously. Be annoying. I emailed the company, and almost immediately got a response. It was good news, and he wanted to call me that Friday to finalize everything. This is where things come full circle for me.

Friday rolls around, and I am going on a girls trip to San Diego, for my friend’s birthday. We arrive a little early, so I can take my call in one of the rooms before the festivities begin. I got the job. At the time it still didn’t feel real, still doesn’t. However, this is where it all comes looping around. I quit my job a few months back, and had my last moment of stress-free bliss at one of my favorite music festivals. In San Diego, I started my NEW stress-free bliss dancing at Gryffin! See what I mean, full circle. What’s meant to be will be.

All this had me reminiscing on what my life has been like in the past two years. All the music festival moments, random vegas concerts, and spontaneous trips to go see my favorite artists. At the time, those were all the moments that inspired me the most. They still probably will in this new chapter of my life. All the “too drunk” moments at Coachella, blisters on my ankles, and post festival comedowns. Those were the memories that kept me working hard, and dreaming bigger.

Now, this definitely isn’t the end. With this new job, you’ll get to see me thrive even more. AND I AM GETTING PAID FOR IT??? Imagine that, getting paid to do something you love. I think I’ve heard some sayings about that in the past. What I can say for sure, is you can expect to still hear me scream singing all my favorite songs, except more frequently. This blog will still be thriving, once I find time and content. There are definitely more interviews coming up, so keep an eye out for that. Also, more music festivals, so possibly more disasters?? You know it’s bound to happen with me. Maybe this time someone will actually steal my Iphone 6, so I have no excuse to not get my upgrade. So, until the next musical journey we meet on, I’ll be back soon!!

Life Is Still Beautiful

HELLERRRRRR. Yeah, maybe Life is Beautiful did happen 3 weeks ago, but I have finally recovered from the loss I felt of it being over. While people had many mixed reviews of the festival this year, I thought it was as beautiful as ever. Let me tell you why.

Let’s start with my journey to Vegas. We had a little rocky start arriving, but it quickly turned over for the better. While getting to the city was extremely breezy, I experienced a little shake up at the grocery store. Of course, right? Something weird has happened to me at every festival. So, I am about to be in the heart of Vegas, when I decide to go to the store just outside of the city. We are obviously on a mission to capture some White Claws. And bagels…always bagels. So, I am picking up my case of Claws. I set my phone down maybe a foot away from me. I turned around to put the Claws in my cart and when I looked back, my phone was gone. Me being me, I assumed I put it back in my backpack for safe keeping. As I start to walk away, I realize that is not the case. Who jacked my broken Iphone 6? And how? I was standing right there, not another soul in sight. I power walk to the front, and ask the woman about a lost phone. As I am speaking to her, the cashier tells me that the phone has just been turned in. Weird, right? It felt like the universe was playing a prank on me. Since I had gone on the outskirts of the town to the store, I would have had no idea how to get to my friends apartment. Let alone, I would not have a phone for the entire weekend! Any other time, this would not be an issue, but at a festival?? Not going to happen. However, I was extremely lucky to get my belongings back. Upon checking out, I proceeded to race to the comfort of Emily’s apartment and start getting ready.

It’s day one! Not to mention, Alana and I’s one year anniversary. Such a special moment, realizing you met one of your amazing friends at an amazing festival. Iconic, one would say. Obviously this is Alana’s night. Gryffin is playing and Alana is his #1 supporter and promoter. I had no idea who he was before she came into my life. I am hyped to finally get a chance to wear my hair in space buns, like I had been practicing for weeks. We walk into the festival, and there it is, that feeling you get when you’re finally where you need to be. As some people may know, I quit my job right before the festival. My whole plan was to leave after, but it just felt right to end my journey with live music. I had been feeling overwhelmed, but all of that immediately went away. We had about an hour until our first set, ARIZONA, and I was excited to get a Vodka Redbull. Would you think any less of me? Unfortunately, I was hoping for a cute souvenir cup, but this year that concept didn’t exist. Like all years, we just HAD to sneak each other into VIP for a little bit. Let’s just be real, the porta potties are nicer, and the grass is greener. So, we spent ARIZONA’s set in VIP, vibing with my Vodka Redbull. My favorite part of this entire set wasn’t even the songs. This is absolutely no shade to ARIZONA, they were phenomenal. However, at one point, the lead singer gave a mini speech. He said something along the lines of: if you aren’t where you need to be, with the people you want to be with, you have the power to change that. And while a little lump in my throat formed, Alana put her hand on my shoulder from behind me. In that moment, I really had no doubts about any of my prior decisions. I was going to be okay, actually I was going to be FANTASTIC.

After the set, we decide to head over to our favorite tent, and watch everyone before Gryffin. An act that caught me off guard, for the better, was Jonas Blue. I had always walked to class in college to his song, “Fast Car.” So naturally, I assumed the set would be more mellow. I was wrong. However, it was the perfect pregame to Gryffin. Of course, I just HAD to scream my heart out to the song, “Remember.” For those of you who don’t remember (lol), Coachella was the first time I saw Gryffin. On my drive home, I knew there was a song I loved, but I just couldn’t think of the name. Upon shuffling his music, I realized this was the one. So, since Coachella, I had been listening to “Remember” almost everyday. On repeat. After screaming my lungs out, and dancing like a maniac, it was time to close the night. We finished with Louis the Child. Who was obviously amazing. We decided, with a long weekend ahead of us, we needed to go home early tonight. Of course, not without a little pit stop to McDonalds.

It is day TWO baby. I wake up a dusty, crusty mess, while Emily gets her booty up to go to SoulCycle. What a goddess. I went right back to bed. Let’s just say this day was the best for so many reasons. The first being, it was unofficial cheetah print night on the grounds. When we walked in, almost every person we encountered was in cheetah, including me. How did I get the telepathic memo?? We decided to walk around a little bit and check out the art. My favorite part about this year, were the notes to strangers posted all over. I think the movement has been in museums for a while, but for some reason, seeing them in person was super impactful. It was like all the notes posted, were meant for me to see. It was giving me a little extra pep in my step. However, here is where the REAL pep comes in. I had originally planned my trip to stay longer to see Loud Luxury at the clurb (not a typo). However, my friend’s hookup was no longer in Vegas, leading to a dead end for us. I was super bummed, just trying to play it cool. My friends get a text in the venue, Loud Luxury is playing the Bacardi Art Motel in 30 mins. I SCREAMED. We had to go. It was obviously a pop up, Bacardi Art Motel is teeny tiny. So we get there, and I cut the line. I cut about 70 people, absolutely no shame. In my mind, those people probably did not get the text, they were just waiting to go in and get their aesthetic photos. Not today! I still do not feel one ounce of guilt. While I was most excited for Jauz that day, the vibe completely changed. The song “Love No More,” is the bad bitch anthem I am always talking about. I am in love. So, obviously, the secret set was everything I ever dreamed.

After Loud Luxury, we attempted to find our friends and go to Jauz. Unfortunately, one of our buddies was extremely excited to see Lil Wayne, who came on stage for one lyric, and then cancelled his set. So, with her night being essentially ruined, she decided to return home. We go to Jauz and make some really cool new friends, who later we go to the next set with. However, we don’t stay long before we decide it is time to hit the after party. Where do we go? Well OBVIOUSLY, Encore Beach Club. RL Grime was playing the after party, and I was not going to miss it. Let’s just say, he’s my new Beach Club crush.

It’s day three. Emily still finds it in her soul to get up and workout, while I go right back to bed. It always sinks in on the third day, that it is ending. While I don’t intend for these sad thoughts to creep in, they always do. I just want it to last forever, ya know? So, I put on my favorite festival bodysuit, and we mob over for the last day. Of course, upon arrival, all sad feelings dissipate. Nothing extremely exciting happens, but we do get to end the night with Oliver Heldens, NERVO, and last, but certainly not least, POST MALONE. Can I just say, going into the night, I genuinely was under the impression that Post Malone heavily used autotune, even live. However, I was extremely surprised to find out that he is an AMAZING performer. He managed to put everyone in their feelings, but also hype them up simultaneously. The performance was so good, I have even considered seeing him on tour.

I know I no longer have any wild fables to tell, like my first Coachella post on here. However, I think people enjoy reading about how festivals can actually be a fairytale, as opposed to a nightmare. I will say though, as you grow up, the festival disasters may lessen, but the party STILL is crazy. I mean, c’mon, not everyone can dance for 12 miles a day. This festival never fails to remind me that no matter how tough my life gets, or how overwhelmed I may be, life is still beautiful.

Coachella 2019 Recap

I know why some of you are here…you think I had another Coachella disaster. I’m going to be completely honest, for the sake of content creation, I wish I did! However, no. This year was perfect. Maybe that’s just a part of growing up and not being a stupid college kid anymore. Or maybe it’s the simple fact that I did not take a sip of pineapple cider. We won’t know!

This year, like all years, I decided to trek to the desert for Weekend 1. Overly excited, I packed my bags, and left right after work on Thursday night. To my disappointment, I hit traffic at 11pm on the 10 FWY going towards Indio. Sadly, the cold brew high was wearing off. By the time I got to Indio, my friends were exhausted on the couch watching Flip or Flop Vegas. Classic. I go to sleep and wake up bright and early on Friday morning, obviously excited to finally be back on my turf. While we didn’t have any artists to see until the evening, we wanted to spend the afternoon catching up by the pool. In my head, I was already planning my outfits, as if I did not spend all week sorting them out to pack. The time comes to get ready and I am FEELING the Red Bull coursing through my veins. The excitement is too real. It is at this time that I should mention how we THOUGHT we were going to get to the festival. We figured with the Uber lot probably being crazy, and the prices being a rip-off, we would just walk. To justify that, we said, “It’s only a mile.” ONLY A MILE. In the hot ass Coachella sun. In cute ass outfits. We were way too confident. So, I strap up my sandals, throw on my romper, and get ready to walk my happy ass to the festival.

About 10 minutes into the walk we realized, this just wasn’t it. This was not the life hack we had envisioned. Luckily, some guy in a van pulled up next to us and told us we looked like we needed a ride. So, we got in. For someone who watches way too many murder mysteries, I really did not hesitate at all to get in this large white air conditioned van. However, as you can assume from me sitting here writing this, I didn’t die. Once we are in the festival it is madness. The first day always seems to be the most crowded. People are getting a feel for the land, seeing what’s new, and deciding what artists to see. Although this wasn’t my first year, Coachella had changed the layout and added tons of things since I had been last. However, my big ego wasted no time taking charge when my friends suggested I lead the way. Festivals are only truly fun when the blind leads the blind. We decide to ring in our first Coachella sunset with Gorgon City. At this point, they are our first act, and I can already feel my wardrobe malfunctioning. My sandals were chafing my ankles and my romper was about to give me a little nip slip. However, with the power of my anti-chafe balm, my ankles were blister free! As the sun set fully, we decided to walk around and check out the rest of the stages. The thing about the lineup this year was that most of the acts were super spread out. There was really no sprinting from one stage to the next to see your faves. The night was going amazing until it got EXTREMELY COLD. I knew from previous years it gets chilly, to where you need a cardigan if anything. No. Not this year. This year I was shocked at how windy and cold it got. So much so that day two I purchased a sweater.

Let’s fast forward to day two. No more complaining about how cold I was.

We wake up, in a little worse shape than Friday. Exhausted, dusty, and crusty (literally). That’s what caffeine and 20 minute showers are for. My outfit today was the most simple. We really had nobody on the list that we were DYING to see, so it was going to be our day to explore all the new things. So, I just threw on a tube top, shorts, and my favorite white platform sneakers. Safe to say, these sneakers are nowhere near white anymore. Will I still wear them? Absolutely. After exploring all the boujee food, and seeing the cool little HP dome, we ended our easy day with Gryffin. Who, by the way, totally blew me away. I have been listening to him since we’ve been back. Specifically, the song, Remember. My only regret of the night, is not seeing Billie Eilish. However, her set was later in the night, and it turns out she came on late because of technical difficulties. A recurring theme that Coachella still has not been able to master.

Day Three. I am starting to realize this is IT. However, I am trying to not start the day already sad picturing the end. All my faves are today. We have Zedd, Khalid, Dillon Francis, Ariana Grande, and NGHTMRE. Unfortunately, today was probably the worst in terms of Coachella microphone malfunctions and technical issues. However, not knowing that, I slap on my forehead jewels and we hop in our van. We start off by seeing Zedd. Now this is where I am starting to get emotional. The sun is setting, and all my favorite old summer songs are playing. I am sure if you heard me singing in the back of the videos I took, you will hear my voice crack. The lump in my throat stayed the whole set. It was bittersweet. I was sad it was ending, but still so happy to be in my favorite place. Once his set ends, we decide it’s time to stock up on water, the night is just beginning. There is about an hour gap until we go see MY MAN, Dillon Francis. While I have seen him many times in the past, my love for him has grown way stronger since my last music festival. While waiting for Dillon, we decide to stop at our baby Khalid’s set. This is where the speaker malfunctions become a real bummer. His mic kept cutting out, and the speakers in the back seemed to be completely blown out. This has happened every year I’ve been to this festival, and always on the last day. So, we decide to head over to the Sahara tent early. At this point, I am getting so excited, that I can’t stop moving. My friend Emily is taking it upon herself to let everyone in our friend group know, that I am the bitch commenting on every single one of Dillon’s photos on IG. Classic. He goes on, and it’s AMAZING. I think I even said, it felt like a really cool house party that everyone’s always wanted an invite to. During this set, was when I got the most EXTREME video of my singing. Remember the one of me screaming during The Weeknd at Life Is Beautiful? This one is comparable.

After Dillon gets us hyped for the night, we decide to head over to Ariana Grande and see what’s up. To my disappointment, the speaker situation had almost gotten worse. Of course, right around the time that she brought out some of the members of NSYNC. I at least got to hear a muffled version of Break Up With Your Girlfriend, I’m Bored. So, we decide to go back to the Sahara tent one last time this year, to go see NGHTMRE. While I knew some of his stuff was super hardcore, I was really looking forward to his set. For those of you who don’t know, my friend who passed away, this was one of his favorite artists. One of my favorite songs at the moment is GUD VIBRATIONS, which I absolutely had to end the night with. He closed Coachella with music that you just couldn’t stop dancing to for an hour. Which was the perfect way for us to end our weekend. Exhausted and content.

The thing I love the most about music festivals, and going with the perfect group of people, is the dynamic. With my friends, there is never a time when we have to fight about who wants to see what artist. Which is something I hear happens a lot between friend groups at festivals. However, our music taste is so similar, nobody ever has to make a sacrifice to see another person’s favorite. This means, we all get to enjoy not only the experience, but being with each other. Sometimes people ask me why I attend festivals if I am only super stoked about a couple artists. For me, yes, it mainly is about the music. However, I have also learned that it is about the memories you make with your friends along the way. While Saturday I had nobody I wanted to see, I had the best time watching one of my friends cry seeing her favorite artist ever. Something about that makes the experience 10x better. I know there were no Coachella disasters this year, and I am sorry to disappoint anyone who was hoping I almost got heat stroke again. However, Coachella 2019 exceeded my last minute expectations.

LAST MINUTE COACHELLA PREP

After months of back and forth, I have finally decided…..to go to Coachella…again. If you have been here before, then you should know that my relationship with this festival has been interesting. From heat stroke, to campsites almost blowing up, Coachella and I are…complicated. However, I have decided after a year apart, it’s time to get back out there and see what happens.

With that being said, as I am writing this, I now have two and a half weeks to plan everything from transportation to clothing. Things that people have been planning for as long as the last year! However, I know I am not the only one. I can’t be. So, I figured I would sit down and talk about how to calmly organize yourself, with as little time as possible. For those of you who are not going to the festival, or are not concert goers in general, you may learn a tip or two on how NOT to plan trips. Or, you may just learn how to get your shit together when you decide to procrastinate planning your next trip.

The first thing I wanted to get a grip on was my finances. If you didn’t know, I am partying on the government’s money. Decided to use my trusty credit card to pay for the ticket. So, how am I going to pay this back, while also having the time of my life at the festival? I am still a little undecided about this one. While I am always in a panic about paying off my credit card in full, I have had countless people say to me, “You have TIME to pay that money back!” It’s like they don’t know telling me that will just encourage me to spend more money I don’t have. They are right though, why is that my main concern? It shouldn’t be. So for now, I would just like to give a big shoutout to whoever invented credit cards, my life would be so so boring without your help.

Next, we have to plan the outfits. For me, this part is more stressful than I would like it to be. While I would like to think being a Coachella Veteran has prepared me for packing, I am still extremely unprepared every time. This year, instead of being all flashy and pretty like the first timers, I just want to be comfy and cute. I want to look like I tried, but could also comfortably move from stage to stage. What most people don’t think about is the fact that the festival is an all day ordeal. You are out there for at least 12 hours. My biggest downfall clothing-wise, is ALWAYS the shoes. If you ever have a chance to be up close and personal with my ankles someday, take a look at the scars. My ankles look permanently bruised thanks to the constant chafing I endure at any music festival/concert. I don’t know what it is, but I just CAN’T seem to get it right. If by some miracle this year I pick the right footwear, I will let you know. As far as tops go, everyone knows I am either a crop top or bodysuit bitch. Five out of the seven days a week you can probably catch me in one or the other, rain or shine. I am not a jeans girl either, leaving me with a vast selection of shorts to bring. Now of course, with all that being said, I have been hunting for some cute new tops and outfits. I mean c’mon, the things I wear at Coachella will be recycled into my going out selection for the bars. I have to bring something fun and fresh to the table.

As far as transportation goes, I trust myself and myself only. I have made the decision to make the short two hour drive. While the way there is going to be so exciting and fun, I just know the way back is going to be hell. Will I even be able to hear the music over the sound of my own crying? Super stoked to find out. This of course means I will be making a playlist for the drive, that I will also be sharing with my friends to listen to on their drive as well. Will I leak it for the rest of you not going? If I’m feeling generous. I will definitely have it available to listen to after, for those who want to feel like they were there. Or for anyone prepping for weekend 2.

With all that being said, it hasn’t actually hit me that I am really doing the damn thing. Every other year I’ve been, it took months of preparation. I would fly from Arizona to California, and then drive to Indio with my girls. This time, I am just leaving from work like a normal person. I guess when you buy the ticket when they actually go on sale, you have months of build-up and excitement to where you just can’t stop talking about it. For me, since I got the ticket two weeks ago, I have only really been blabbing about it the past week. My poor friends and coworkers are really going to get an earful from me when the festival is over that’s for sure. Oh, and also this blog, duh. My next content is going to be filled with Coachella nonsense until the next festival. Get ready for the madness!