Movers & Shakers: Garth Trinidad

No other DJ in the last decade has had a bigger influence on Los Angeles music culture than Garth Trinidad. As both a resident DJ with KCRW over the last 15 years and a voting member of The Recording Academy, Trinidad has risen to prominence by championing progressive, creative and often overlooked artistry in urban alternative music. Through his weekly show, Chocolate City, Trinidad has inspired a refashioning of the Los Angeles underground music scene, providing a much-needed platform for new, independent music artists. Further, Chocolate City has evolved into a global soundscape by infusing soulful classics with the best in independent world music.

I’ve had the good fortune of getting to know Garth over the last year and was happy to discover the many layers of the man
behind the music. Garth, a loving husband and father, is also an artist in his own right and, lucky for us, 2013 will be a year of many Trinidad-laced projects. First up, is the KCRW 5th Annual Moja Moja Pre-Grammy Brunch & Benefit Concert happening this Saturday, February 9th at the W in Hollywood. The brunch, which benefits Oxfam America and The Darfur Stoves Project, will honor the legendary George Clinton this year and feature intimate performances by artists such as pianist, Chloe Flowers and Malaysian singer-songwriter, Yuna. This event usually sells out so check here for tickets for more information.

Watch and listen to the first in a two-part series with Garth Trinidad. Stay tuned for more to come!

Photos by Monica Orozco and JLogic.

LA EVENTS: NYE 2013 Alternatives

LA Babies, usually at this time of year there is one incomparable body rock going down that we help promote, but this year our favorites are taking a break. Furthermore, with so much tragedy in recent weeks it seems like most people are keeping celebrations close to home with family and friends. Finally, we are having a true winter for Angelenos – rain whenever and wherever – and most of us are trying to stave off colds or get over one. With that said, consider these alternative New Year’s celebration ideas:

Top Chef (in the family): Invite family and friends over with each bringing their “signature” dish for the holidays. Lay out dishes anonymously and let guests vote for their favorites. This event can be themed (i.e. mac and cheese battle, desserts only, etc.). Hand out candy cane awards to all participants!

Hot Toddy Party: This event might require folks to bring sleeping bags. Have family and friends brew up their special warm drink concoctions of the holidays including spiked cider, adult hot chocolate, coffee-based cocktails, etc. Serve with small bites and sweet treats!

Movie Marathon: Didn’t make it to the theater as much as you intended to this year? Work together with family and friends to get the 2012 blockbusters that are now on DVD (or streaming) and host a movie marathon! Break out that Xmas tin of three-flavored popcorn, or have a selection of the microwave variety on hand! Take advantage of Christmas candy on sale and have your own concession stand going. Got kids? Play family-friendly films early in the day and save the adult content for the evening!

Happy Holidays!

 

 

 

Culture Connection: Morgan Rhodes

In this episode of Culture Connection, Brother Malcolm chats with DJ and music programmer, Morgan Rhodes, host of KPFK’s (FM 90.7) The Listening Station. Rhodes also holds the honor of being the music supervisor for Ava DuVernay’s latest project, Middle of Nowhere. Listen in as they chat about current music genres, the crucial role of independent radio, and why Black people should embrace a variety of musical styles.