Miami pool parties. A dime a dozen, huh? Then so are all the DJ bros playing them. As in the greater male-dominated dance music scene, female talent is vastly unrepresented.
But the folks behind Lost in Paradise aim to change that with a kickass new pool party series bringing the hype back to the ladies by showcasing all-female DJ headliners.
"There aren't many opportunities for talented and dedicated female DJs -- women in music are usually objectified," laments promoter Anette Marie to Crossfade. "We want to be the catalyst for these talented women, even at the start of their career, and provide them with a formal platform to showcase their talent."
"These [Lost in Paradise] events are unique because they are the perfect opportunity for the artists to build their confidence and skills while building their fan base, so that they can ultimately reach their full potential as artists, DJs or producers," she adds.
Now if it sounds like a gimmick or marketing ploy, it's not. The Lost in Paradise organizers are taking their feminist party concept very seriously.
"March will be a very busy month for us, since we are celebrating International Woman's Day," explains Annette. "We'll be honoring influential women in the industry, which is a new tradition that we expect to do every year. We are planning special recognitions, plaques, etcetera for the honorees."
There's even a rare philanthropic element to the party, with the promoters having joined efforts with Parties 4 Peace, a New York-based non-profit that raises funds for various global charitable causes via the electronic dance music scene.
"We are honored to donate a percentage of the profits to this amazing organization," says Annette. "The events won't have CO2 or fancy lights on the stage, because we think that it distracts from the featured talent. There will be entertainment interacting with the public and not on the stage. We want to create a real connection between the artists and the music fans."
Activism aside though, Lost in Paradise aims to put on memorable fun-filled parties, first and foremost.
"We want to provide an evening pool party where people can just come, enjoy the music, get in the pool, and have some drinks," says Annette. "We love that you can arrive to the venue by boat. It's a great spot with a great view, and a great place to invite new people."
"The events will be very different from what partygoers are used to here in Miami," she promises. "We are focused on talent, and not just sexy bodies or flashing lights."
The Lost in Paradise party series kicks off on February 1 at Finnegan's River in Brickell with up-and-coming Mexican DJ Mar-C along with various local favorites on the decks and will continue with a string of installments through the spring. Follow their Facebook page for party updates.
Mar-C. With Laura of Miami, Hillary Warner, Uchi and Khadija. Presented by Lost in Paradise. Saturday, February 1. Finnegan's River. 401 SW 3rd Ave.,
Miami. The party starts at 3 p.m. Call 305-285-3030 or visit finnegansbars.com.
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