With 2019 about to enter the record books, I sit here reflecting on what a glorious year it was. Well, not really glorious, but it was good enough and definitely not as bad as some previous annual stretches I’ve had to endure. In the midst of putting together the last big event of the year, I’m feeling really good about what 2020 has in store for this kid.
I didn’t think I would be able to squeak in another post this year. December can be a ridiculously crazy month for us DJs or anyone else in the the event industry. While most people are enjoying time with their families while their work duties tend to diminish before the end of the month, us party peeps have to ramp things up.
In the past I always looked forward to NYE and the insane party that managed to stretch itself into the early morning (and sometimes afternoon) hours of January 1st. Then I dreaded the bill I had to pay when I woke up dry-mouthed and shit-kicked the next day.
Now it’s completely the opposite.
Waking up that first morning of the new year gives me a profound sense of joy these days. Ok, maybe not joy: more like relief. Before I have to put on my administration hat and start crunching the numbers for year-end, I try to set the tone for the year. No more double-caesars or other hair-of-the-dog tactics, but usually a good string of hot yoga classes and not setting an alarm clock for about a week.
I was out with one of my good friends yesterday, who also happens to be a dope MC and works with me every NYE at our big event, and he mentioned how he likes to spend his last Sunday of the year at a particularly lively church in Surrey, reflecting on the past year and counting his blessings. I like the idea of such a ritual. Routines are good to have. Just as long as they are healthy ones.
This year I managed to incorporate a 10 minute meditation routine into all my mornings. I think it’s really helped my mental state overall and this year I’m going to add 10 to the end of the day, as well.
The end goal is 20 and 20, but I’m taking may time to get there. While the positive affects of such a routine are not felt initially, I feel like over time they will increase. The countless number of successful and happy people that have incorporated this into their lives is vast, and will surely grow the more people become aware of it.
But enough, of all this “new year / new me” bullshit. It seems fitting that we get into the music and do a bit of a round up of some of my favourite tracks from the past year or so. We’re gonna run the gamut from Tech House to Hip Hop and even some Alternative jams, so get those ears ready. And while you’re at it, might as well go grab a coffee.
They’re coming in my next post. Cheers.
JT James is a DJ, producer and writer based out of Vancouver, Canada. A veteran of the DJ and recording worlds. he has produced several projects in the genres of hip hop and electronic music under various aliases such as James Divine, Track Nicholson and Sandy Villanova. Be on the lookout for his upcoming single with underground hip hop legend Ras Kass and his electronic music collaboration with James Landau, in 2020.
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