Backyard Parties

Los Angeles' environs are set-up for a
thriving backyard party scene. The town is blessed with some of the
best weather in the country, allowing for a 10-month stretch of
non-stop partying to occur.
But not only the weather is to
blame. The planning of our streets, with its city grids and post-war
middle class homes allow many residents to enjoy a backyard with an
orange tree and enough space to throw a party.
Not everyone
though takes advantage of this or even needs it. The working class
communities in east and south Los Angeles see their backyard as a place
to commune, retreat, escape and yes, save some money.
Historically,
the youth involved in backyard party planning and djing did not have
the extra cash to drive to Hollywood and pay $20 bucks to enter a club.
That is why they created a party of
their own, with their own rules, participants, promoters, economies and
music. This sub-culture which was and continues to be emulated by club
promoters in the west side and the world was built and devised by the
young men and women, ages 15 to 21, who live and sometimes die in east
and south L.A.
In this issue of webstories, we will explore
the rise of backyard parties as we take a look at the evolution of DJ
culture from the 1970's to the present. In each decade we will explore
one famous party, tracing the evolution and development of fashion,
music and culture in L.A.
So sit down and relax.... and let the mix take you away.
Check out the full issue here.