There’s absolutely no doubt that black DJs have been among those to build the foundations of dance music. Worldwide. No question. In the spirit of recent events, Bandcamp has released a massive database of black DJs, artists and black-led labels in the hopes of sparking off support initiatives. In our efforts to raise the bar by providing DJ tutorial courses, here are a few choice selections of black artists worth checking out.
Black Jazz Consortium
Black Jazz Consortium is the alias of Fred P, the New York-turned-Berlin resident with an uncountable back catalog of releases on labels including Soul People Music, Perpetual Sound and Private Society. Years of podcast releases, live mixes and appearances on Boiler Room Berlin, Breakfast Club and many others solidify his reputation as a valued contributor to dance music culture. Check out Black Jazz Consortium on Bandcamp.
LAKIM
Virginia native Lakim’s inspired fusion of dance music, hip hop and alternative is indeed a fresh voice in a crowded room. His sound has been described as a “blend of crisp drum patterns, dreamy synths, and lush vocal chops.” His touring schedule has seen him perform in North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia, sharing the stage with Nas, Kendrick Lamar and Lauren Hill. Check out LAKIM.
ABYEE
Label Deepblak’s Armon Bazile aka ABYEE is described as “an ecosystem of rhythm”. Whether we’re talking about the hip-hop and techno influences or the sample-cut African chanting of a track like Wave Principles, it’s clear that Bazile’s music reflects a host of influences. Founded in Oakland, CA and now based in Berlin, expect soulful music on the outskirts of dance from ABYEE.
Music is arguably the most powerful tool we have to break down divisions. When we dance together, we realize the similarities far outweigh the differences. Keep fighting the fight to make things more fair. Be inspired to sign up for a DJ course by DJ Courses Online today.
John Bartmann is a music producer and DJ.