Elevating the Dance Music Scene: Heads Know's Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Heads Know, an underground electronic music and hip-hop party and platform based in New York City, is making waves in the industry by showcasing diverse and underrepresented artists. Founded by Arielle Lana LeJarde, the event series is not just about music, but about honoring the rich history and cultural significance of the dance music genre.

Amplifying Underrepresented Voices in the Dance Music Scene

Celebrating the Roots of Dance Music

Heads Know's mission is rooted in the understanding that dance music was founded by Black and Latino queer communities. LeJarde emphasizes the importance of acknowledging this history, as it is often overlooked or forgotten. By highlighting this fact, Heads Know aims to educate and empower the community, ensuring that the true origins of the genre are not erased.

Diversifying the Lineup

Heads Know's events feature a diverse lineup of artists, including acclaimed names such as Todd Edwards, Baauer, Ella Hu$$le, Traxman, Machinedrum, DJ Haram, and many more. The event series is committed to showcasing underground, underrepresented, and rising talents, providing a platform for these artists to shine. This approach not only celebrates the diversity within the dance music scene but also challenges the industry's traditional booking practices.

Fostering Inclusivity and Community

Beyond the music, Heads Know events offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for attendees. The parties are designed to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Concertgoers can even get a flash tattoo as a way to commemorate the night, further solidifying their connection to the Heads Know experience.

Expanding Horizons: Heads Know's West Coast Debut

In April 2024, Heads Know made its way across the country, taking over Los Angeles' The Regent Theater as part of the Scenario Showcase. This event featured performances by East Coast artists, including DJ Sliink, Jewelssea, Miley Serious, and LeJarde herself. By bringing the Heads Know experience to the West Coast, the event series aimed to bridge the gap between the two regions and showcase the diversity of the dance music scene.

Elevating the Dance Music Scene

Heads Know's impact extends beyond its events. The event series has also launched a platform with an accompanying newsletter, providing a space to spotlight new artists, events, and tastemakers. Additionally, the Heads Know Tapes, a mix series, serves as a "love letter" to the mixes that inspired LeJarde's journey as a music journalist.

Fostering Change and Representation

Heads Know's commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just about booking diverse artists; it's about challenging the industry's status quo. DJ Sliink and Oak City Slums, both previous Heads Know performers, emphasize the importance of representation and the need for more diverse bookings in the dance music scene. They believe that Heads Know's efforts are a step in the right direction, inspiring other event organizers to think outside the box and prioritize inclusivity.

Respecting the History and Shaping the Future

Ultimately, Heads Know's mission is to honor the rich history of dance music while also shaping its future. By showcasing diverse and underrepresented artists, the event series is not only educating the community but also paving the way for a more inclusive and representative dance music landscape. As LeJarde eloquently states, "We're in history right now, and we're a part of it. What's going to be our part in the scene?"