In a vibrant gathering at the Promontory in Hyde Park, eight women shared deeply personal stories about how music has shaped their lives. The event, titled "Last Night a DJ Saved My Life," organized by SOL Collective, brought together an engaged audience who laughed, nodded, and affirmed the tales told on stage. Through songs like Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds” and Usher’s “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love,” the speakers reflected on moments of love, friendship, and hope. This event underscored the collective's mission to amplify the voices of women of color and create a space where their experiences resonate with all attendees.
A Night of Music and Storytelling
In the heart of Hyde Park, on a memorable Saturday evening, the Promontory venue was transformed into a sanctuary of storytelling. The event, "Last Night a DJ Saved My Life," featured eight women who shared heartfelt narratives about the profound impact of music on their lives. The atmosphere was electric, with disco balls and roses adorning the tables, creating a festive ambiance. Attendees were captivated as they danced, sang along, and listened intently to each story.
The night began with the Indeep classic that inspired the event's title. Ada Cheng, a renowned educator and storyteller, recounted her experiences of love through the lens of Phil Collins' music. Keelah Moore, a project manager, spoke of the joy of learning to dance from a college friend, while Shelley Davis, co-founder of SOL Collective, shared her emotional journey from excitement during the Democratic National Convention to dejection following the election results. Davis poignantly described how the music that once fueled her optimism fell silent, leaving her without a soundtrack for the first time in her life.
SOL Collective, founded in 2020, aims to highlight the voices and experiences of women of color. Co-founder Shelley Davis emphasized the importance of these stories, noting that they offer both entertainment and new perspectives. Emily Hooper Lansana, the artistic director, chose music as the theme for this event, highlighting its role in Black history as a source of encouragement and liberation. She encouraged the audience to embrace music and artistry as essential tools for healing and resilience.
Throughout the evening, the storytellers and audience members danced in the aisles during DJ Ca$h Era’s pre-show set. Hooper Lansana reminded everyone that in times of crisis, music and art have always been vital for emotional restoration and strength.
The event concluded with a powerful message: music not only entertains but also heals and unites us in our shared humanity.
This event serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of music and storytelling. It highlights the importance of creating spaces where diverse voices can be heard and celebrated. As we reflect on the stories shared, we are reminded that music has the unique ability to evoke emotions, preserve memories, and foster connections across different walks of life. In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to turn to music as a source of comfort and inspiration.