Music Sounds Better With You
Image: Courteney Frisby
Year 3 of Body Movements Festival was an ignition of colour and beautiful mayhem. Amidst sequins and spandex, the multi-venue festival in Hackney Wick, East London, attracted LGBTQI+ collectives from across the UK and beyond. Its labyrinth of indoor and outdoor venues were overflowing with unapologetic vibrancy, as the festival once again affirmed an undeniably major moment for queer club culture.
With the sun peaking through the clouds, 5,000 people gathered around the canal in high, love-filled spirits. There was something tangibly joyful about queer bodies roaming free, taking up space. Neon pink fishnets, leather hot pants and showgirl feathers took centre stage as acts like Sippin’T, TAALIAH and Desire Marea entranced crowds with their sonic heartbeats.
Image: Courteney Frisby
Sippin’ T, DJ and Cultural Curator, brought together an inclusive line-up that vibrated from 2pm to the early hours of the morning. The best of London’s low Dysphoric frequency fostered a sense of connection and home, as All My Friends, a fresh spectrum of Dj acts, soundtracked R&B, Hip-Hop, Bashment and dancehall vibes that reflected an empowered community. With a familial feel, an empathetic audience were encouraged to be in the present moment, bearing witness to time - it’s okay not to be okay. It’s okay to celebrate. It’s okay to let go. It’s okay to be here, now.
We were also drawn to the energy of Old Street Brewery; an American style bar that transformed into a Queer Bruk takeover. Dubbed London’s ‘duttiest’ black queer club night, founder Akeil Onwukwe-Adamson launched Queer Bruk back in 2018. Struggling to find a nightlife safe space that evoked a sense of belonging, Onwukwe-Adamson spearheaded an event of his own, bringing Afro-Caribbean music within queer spaces. Created for and by queer people of colour, Queer Bruk transformed the Old Street Brewery with pulsating dancehall, soca and Afrobeats. With a sun-infused set, London-based DJ Donnie Sunshine captivated eager attendees that were giving hella attitude, with their bold twerks and personal handheld fans. Diva behaviour. That’s hot - and we’re here for it! Sweaty bodies wined to an exclusive Body Movements set as the heat intensified. Nostalgic cult classics and timeless favourites like Beyonce’s ‘Alien Superstar’ kept the energy euphoric.
Image: Courteney Frisby
If you needed a moment to breathe and relax, the festival also hosted a welfare and chill out space that was stocked up on water, snacks and friendly faces. Continuing the movement of safer spaces for all, this designated corner became an uplifting refuge for anyone who needed a moment. It’s incredible to know that this year, Body Movements has made £11,002.81 for their charity partner - London Trans Pride.
As the festivities continued into the night, the East End air was charged with elation. Whether attendees came alone, with friends, brought dates or had a cute festival hook up, it was clear that queer culture, identity and community is thriving. Music really does sound better with you.
