I can't verbally capture the extravagance of one person. Daisya walks with a confidence and glow that very few get to hold. Often within one's lifetime, we encounter certain individuals that we know are 'special'. These encounters are etched into our memories, followed by gratitude for even having the chance to experience such a person. Put simply, Daisya is a gift.
During my short stay in New York, I knew I would have to make meeting Daisya a priority if scheduling aligned. I've known Daisya for well over 5 years, and through proper means of social media, community is possible. Yet and still, even at 16, Daisya always seemed to have a grandness to her. Whether it be as an artist, model, DJ, or thinker, it's quite apparent that Daisya's ideas and individuality have a nuance that will always be captivating. So, for me, getting the chance to meet Daisya was a chance to experience, communicate, share, and learn.
Off first impressions, the feeling of actually meeting someone for the first time can be a little nerve-wracking. However, seeing Daisya gave me the sort of comfort one might get after not seeing a relative for a while. Sorta like seeing your favorite cousin after a long time. Conversation quickly supported my feelings as we swarmed into the intermediates of our lives.
As we sat there in Washington Square Park we ran through topics of life's subtleties, adulthood, gentrification, capitalism, and the ironic depths of white people. I'm not sure if it was the mutual understanding that made the conversation so enjoyable or if it was the lavender-mixed joint we smoked. Nonetheless, I knew I wanted to hold the time while I had it.
After our first break in conversation, it was time to hit spot number one. We made our way down SOHO visiting the clothing stores. Fashion and expression are personal to everyone, however, it goes without question that Daisya has a very good sense of it. We shared our opinions and picked out pieces that caught our eye in stores like Prada, DKNY, Artizia, Golf, etc. Shortly thereafter, we grabbed tea and prepared for our next move.
To my surprise, Daisya informed me that she had a friend DJing two shows. The excitement I felt was hard to contain; I am not much of a clubber, but, I've always wanted the chance to experience a Black House set. Black people, specifically black women, create some of the most intrinsic mixes. Though it was a little early, we made our way to the first show.
The moment we walked in we were greeted at the door by the backs of others. We showed up only a few minutes before the set time, and yet the intimate bar was packed full of black faces. There is a certain warmth of being surrounded by community and culture, wrapped beautifully in the essence of music.
Orchestrating the atmosphere, Ash is a very intelligent and talented person. I had the pleasure of meeting and conversing with her shortly in between her set. Firstly, being able to witness an artist create in real-time is quite the perspective. I was equally in awe seeing the people resonate with the music, while simultaneously seeing Ash work in a world all her own.
I asked her what it might feel like to know people are actively creating memories with the sounds and music she makes. The thought itself is very intimate and sensible. Like the aromas of childhood or the taste of a caretaker's meal, people will recount the moment, the look, and the feeling of their own experience structured by her performance. To be responsible for such a thing is a gift and honor.
One thing I am so grateful for is the kindness and openness I received from Ash. Of course, I didn't visit New York under the assumption that people were rude, but the level of genuineness and authenticity she greeted me with was very heart-warming. Being from the South, I am very familiar with Southern Hospitality but the people I met in New York were real, very real.
Following her set, she invited me and Daisya to her place for a quick intermission before her second show. Again, still super amazed and grateful at the fact, especially since she just met me.
At Ash's second set, Daisya and I sat right behind where Ash performed in a roped-off section. The feeling of it all was quite surreal. A great appreciation filled me. I needed to know that I could share with strangers, communicate freely with others, and be at the mercy of one's kindness. Never would I have expected to be led to such an environment, but forever thankful to even experience it. Thankful to Daisya. Thankful to Ash.
People sang and danced late into the night. Daisya and I left around 1 A.M. We caught a lyft to our respective places and during the ride, it was apparent we were both happy but tired. I walked to the deli after being dropped off and my mind felt so fulfilled. I needed to connect with others, and genuinely connect with others. Recently, I was starting to think I had serious social issues. But my time in New York as well as my experience with Daisya and Ash showed me how pivotal location is.
side note: I walked the entire day on a bloody heel but goddamnit it was worth it.