In Season 5, Episode 11 of my tell-all podcast, I dive into a transformative journey through a year dedicated to live music.
From the electric energy of Beyoncé’s RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR to soulful vibes at Bonnaroo Festival with acts like Amber Mark and Danielle Ponder or controversial genius like Lil Nas X to longtime faves like Dear Silas and Paramore , and the unforgettable Erykah Badu, who brought on acts Tobe Nwigwe and Yasiin Bey to her tour—these live performances became more than just shows. Alicia Keys with opener Libianca, Ayra Starr, Chlöe (Chloe Bailey), Janelle Monáe with Flyana Boss, and Coco Jones (pre-Grammy but I called that win and promptly filmed a live reaction! Look at God!) further filled my year with rhythm, reflection, and connection. This season of music evolved into a lifetime journey of exploring not just music but culture.
Expanding my focus, I found inspiration in the stories brought to life through films like Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse and the enchanting Beauty and the Beast as they were backed by orchestral accompaniment, a live DJ, or sometimes both. I immersed myself in community-centered events like RENAISSANCE BRUNCH and HIVE HOEDOWN happening this weekend in the RDU area and hosted by Mir of Carolina Waves, DuragFest, Boileryard Brunch, Eclectic Soul Sessions, Jefatona, and FOMO Museum Block Party brought to Charlotte by Better Luck TMRW, all bringing me closer to the pulse of creativity and unity across the country because music is universal.
Of course, this wouldn’t be my podcast if I didn’t casually drop gems on cultivating a life rich in experiences, love, connection, and joy whether you’re alone or not, all while building community through the arts.
Ready for more? Get to know me, my journey, and my creative world at CydneyIrby.com, and stay connected across socials.
You can subscribe to my Lifetime of Music channel to see me recap Year of Music 2023, watch my thoughts on current music drops, or tune into The Creative Memoir Chronicles to discover more limitless creatives I know and how I support the arts, small business, and doing what you love.
