The 2009 Winter Music Conference once again held up to what we all expect of the now 24th annual electronic music barrage and largest DJ conference in South Florida.
The 2009 Winter Music Conference (WMC) once again held up to what we all expect of the now 24th annual electronic music barrage and largest DJ conference in South Florida. Not only did thousands of electronic music fans turn up to the balmy South Beach shores and glitzy boutique hotels, but hundreds of dj’s and wanna-be dj’s spun their tunes to the beat of the pulsing night (and day).
So what were the favorite hot spots? The Shelborne was blessed with David Guetta on Wednesday and Danny Tennaglia on Sunday, but the 24th Annual International Dance Music Awards (IDMA) was up in stitches with the ever-hilarious Charo as hostess alongside Felix Sama and Daniel Glass. Charo tore up the house with her incredible and energetic on-stage Spanish guitar performance. Other performances included Jess, DJ Rap, Don Diablo, and LMAFO with their hit song “I’m in Miami, Bitch”.
Notable Wins:
• Best US Club: Pacha, NYC
• Best Global Club: Amnesia, NYC
•Best House/Garage Track: Infinity 2008—Guru Josh Project – Big City Beats
•Best Jungle/DnB Track: The Other Side— Pendulum – Warner Bros
•Best Pop Dance Track: Just Dance—Lady Gaga – Interscope
Rain clouds threatened, but the energy didn’t stop at the 11th Annual Ultra Music Festival. The usual mayhem ensued peacefully, with an eye-full of hot DJ stars and hot, sweaty bodies.
Friday was a real treat with the Black Eyed Peas performing their new world-beats inspired single “Boom Boom Pow” along with some other favorites. Recently reunited, the Peas’ new album was inspired by the sounds of David Guetta, MasterKraft, and Kaoki, to name a few. “The album adds one more tool to our fusion” Fergie elaborated on their electro-inspired sound. They were thrilled to showcase their new beat to the Ultra crowd. Will explains, “The album is meant to bring people together.” The Peas were clearly inspired by clubs around the world, and there was no better place to share their new-found electro-awakening than at Ultra.
Saturday’s main stage shared Paul Van Dyke and Armin Van Buren but we had a chance to get up close and personal with another main-stage draw, the Berlin-based duo Booka Shade. Walter and Arno’s excitement to play at Ultra for the first time was clear, “Miami has a cultural influence that is diverse. It’s beautiful”. The two have played around the world. “With no gay scene we wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you,” Arno commented. Of course, didn’t we know that already? So for you Europe-hungry boys, here’s a hint, go to Panorama Bar in Berlin, one of Booka Shade’s favorite gay clubs that should not be missed.
Cheers!
TJ
