Music has always been an important part of my life. I grew up with a mother who exposed me to music ranging from The Beatles and Elton John to No Doubt and The Killers with many others in between. I learned to appreciate music at a young age, and I thank her for that.
It wasn't until I attended my first music festival did I really understand the effect live music has on a person. It's hard to describe exactly, but it's a beautiful feeling.
I enjoy a wide range of genres and artists, but right now, I'm into electronic dance music (EDM). There's a whole lot of subgenres within EDM like house, drum and bass, hardstyle, dubstep, etc. I've been front row for Borgore, close enough to touch Skrillex's arm, and all the way in the back of the crowd at Bassnectar. Anywhere is a great place, really, to enjoy the music.
Skrillex at Voodoo 2014 in New Orleans, La.
At festivals, not only are you exposed to many different artists, but you also get to meet a lot of different people. The EDM culture is a very accepting and unique one. PLUR is kind of like the motto among us ravers, standing for Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. A lot of us make kandi, which are bracelets with words or phrases we make by hand months before shows or festivals, and we trade them with other ravers with a special handshake. It sounds kind of funny, but it's a really cool way you can connect with other people who enjoy EDM. At festivals, it's all about sending good vibes and happiness to others. I often give away some of the Kandi I have made to first time ravers so they can learn the handshake and become a part of this community. Trading kandi is one of the coolest parts of music festivals, in my opinion.
Some of the kandi I made for Voodoo 2014.
Of course, some people choose to take drugs at festivals, which I neither participate in nor do I condone. However, I always look out for the people around me. I bring an extra water bottle to share with people because I don't want anyone to overheat or dehydrate. Safety is key at a festival. You should make sure you and the people around you are safe and get medical attention if necessary.
Music is what brings everyone together at a festival. One thing I discovered at my first festival is that you really can feel the music. It's an interesting experience, one that I often can't find the words to describe. With electronic music, there's usually a build up and then the bass drops. It's really loud, and really powerful. If the bass drops hard enough, you might notice chills run down your body. That's my favorite part.
I've been to three festivals so far, and plan to attend many more in the future. Out of every EDM artist I've seen live, Zedd is hands-down my favorite. I've seen him twice, and he did not disappoint either time. His show felt magical, with the lights and special effects paired perfectly to compliment the music. He remixed current songs, and played many of his own.
Music festivals are something you should definitely experience for yourself. I can't do them justice just describing them, so go out and see what they're all about. I promise you won't regret it.
friend and I at Buku Fest 2015 in New Orleans, La.
