An Ode to the Dance Floor
Considering that I’m quickly approaching the milestone of 30 years on this planet and still go out and party almost every weekend while my same-aged peers are doing things like starting families and whatnot, I sometimes wonder what the fuck I’m doing. It’s not like I need to justify my decisions for anybody but myself, but I wanted to take some time to explain how I have come to the realization that nightlife means so much more to me than just the debauchery and hedonism it might represent to some people. I am also writing this as a thank you to the nightlife that has shaped me, given me an outlet and continues to provide a space for me to be myself.
First and foremost, I do not go out with the intention to get shitfaced or take copious amounts of recreational drugs. As a DJ and creative, typically if you see me at the party I’m there to network and support my friends that make amazing art and create beautiful experiences. Alternatively, I might be there because I need to be for me own well-being and sanity, which I will explain. As I mentioned my age previously, this is one aspect of my life that has changed since my early 20’s. Admittedly, in the past, my outlook on nightlife was less productive, but this is what helped me shape who I am. When I moved to Chicago, I started to realize that nightlife can be a creative space or it can be whatever kind of space you make it, so with that in mind it can be a space for people to explore themselves and who they are. If I weren’t going to underground DIY shows and warehouse parties in Chicago and exploring the creative world that exists within that scene, I would not have the same understanding of life that I do now. And I am so thankful for that.
To me, the night as a general concept is open and liberating. Oftentimes, honestly now more than ever before, I will go to parties by myself with the sole intention to just dance and let loose. Life is stressful for everyone and my life is no exception. We all need coping mechanisms and dancing is one of mine. As a society, it feels like we are becoming more open to discussing mental health issues and I am very aware that I sometimes experience immense anxiety. This may come as a surprise to those that only know social media Josh, but I can be incredibly introverted at times so going to parties solo may seem like a strange thing for an introvert to do. However, if you consider my intentions it can be justified by the fact that I am not going out necessarily to socialize. I don’t want to be around people, I just want to be dancing. I need to be in that environment to embrace myself. This is incredibly important to me and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
I’ve been to all kinds of music festivals, night clubs, I’ve been to a fucking rave in the middle of the jungle on a mountain in Colombia, and it’s safe to say my heart belongs on the dance floor. I’m not sure how long this will last. Maybe eventually I will trade my late night adventures for nights in and early mornings with clear eyes. It’s a somewhat inevitable trade-off, but right now I belong to the night.
Some photos of my nights out over the past month…
