You know, the internet is this wild, unpredictable playground where sometimes, just sometimes, sliding into someone's DMs can lead to something monumental. Case in point: a random reply on an IG story of my friend Chloe Kourga longboarding caught the eye of Joy Anonymous, a killer music duo from the UK. Fast forward a week, and there we were, in Los Angeles, with them throwing down an epic set on top of the Shred Sled at sunset. If that's not a testament to the mysterious, almost magical ways of the internet, I don't know what is.

This isn't just a story about a cool event that happened. It's a broader narrative on the power of reaching out, of making connections across continents and creative disciplines, and of the sheer awesomeness that can unfold when music, art, and movement collide. So, let's dive into how this all went down, the fusion of talents it brought together, and why sometimes, taking a wild shot in the dark can lead to moments you'll never forget.

The Unbelievable Story Behind a Sunset DJ Set in Santa Monica

The Setup

Imagine this: a week prior, the only connection I had to Joy Anonymous was through their music on my playlist. Fast forward to an unforgettable night in Santa Monica, and there I was, smack in the middle of a collaboration that felt like something out of a dream. This wasn't just any event. It was a pop-up show that defied expectations and, admittedly, a few local ordinances. But how did we get there?

It started with a performance by Joy Anonymous that totally captivated me, a spontaneous after-party chat, and a wild idea to host a bold, fun, and memorable pop-up show at Original Muscle Beach. The catch? I had to snag the perfect spot at sunrise, juggle a few parking spaces, and bring in the big guns in terms of sound systems. Thanks to a buddy's willingness to help and some impromptu performances, we pulled off something magical.

3 Learnings From the Experience

1 - Shooting Your Shot Can Change Everything

The entire adventure began with a simple reply to an IG story. That small action led to being part of the guest list at a Joy Anonymous show, which then spiraled into orchestrating an entire pop-up event the next day. The takeaway? Don't underestimate the power of reaching out. Whether it's a message to an artist you admire or proposing a crazy idea, taking that first step is crucial. It's about putting yourself out there, even if it feels like a long shot.

2 - Collaboration Amplifies Creativity

When planning something as audacious as a DJ set on a bus at sunset, having the right people on your team is everything. I could've settled for my Soundboks speakers, but I knew we needed something epic. So, I reached out to Dean Zeller, a friend with an incredible sound system, and Nivedan (the musician behind Narasimha), who added his Djembe beats to the mix. This collaboration not only made the event possible but also elevated it beyond what I could have achieved alone. It's a reminder that bringing friends (or even acquaintances) into your projects can turn a great idea into an unforgettable experience.

3 - Courage to Pursue Joy Comes with Its Own Rewards (and Risks)

There's something exhilarating about doing something you truly believe in, even when it's a bit rogue. Yes, we faced some challenges (like navigating parking laws and eventually dealing with the police), but the joy and connection the event brought to everyone there were undeniable. Sometimes, to create something joyous and cool, you have to be willing to take risks, whether that's facing potential fines or the logistical nightmares of event planning. It's all about chasing those moments that make you feel alive, even if it means getting a parking ticket as a souvenir.

Wrapping Up

In hindsight, this whole experience was a masterclass in the art of making things happen against the odds. It taught me that taking chances, leveraging your network for collaboration, and daring to do something that brings joy are worth every potential hiccup along the way. So, here's to more moonshots, more collaborations, and yes, even to the occasional parking ticket if it means bringing a little more magic into the world.

From Joy Anonymous

“We want people to be able to realize that the small joys, the ones we may take for granted, are as important (if not more) than the big moments in our lives. It's small steps that help tackle big problems and actually help you realise that the big problem wasn't as big or important as you thought. Musically, we want people to feel something when they hear our songs. Doesn't matter what, just something because that is joy. It's truly feeling something and nothing else. The reason why we want Joy Anonymous to have the same inclusive feeling as other anonymous groups is to let people feel like they are part of a community, because we feel that is missing today (particularly in the West). Without community we feel lost and like the world is against us. But if you start with the small steps of appreciating your feelings, you will always be part of Joy Anonymous.”