There is something about live music that feels bigger than the stage itself. Music pumping as you make your way to the entrance. The adrenaline building. Fellow ravers mingling with friends before they step onto the dance floor. That is exactly what I witnessed as I walked through the checkpoints of Skyline Music Festival in Boyle Heights this weekend, where art, sound, and community met in real time.
Unfortunately for me, I missed my first set of the day, Stacy Christine, and I was genuinely bummed about it. Still, I managed to get back on track in time for the next artist on my list, OZA over at the Westside Stage. He turned out to be the perfect reset. His set opened with smooth, soft beats layered with just enough bass to feel the music move through you, grounding the crowd while slowly building the energy back up. I was already feeling good and ready to see what the day had to offer.
With my next chosen set not starting for a few hours, I took the chance to explore the venue, since Skyline was at a new location this year. Held at Ace*Mission Studios, the space felt just right. Plenty of room, but not overwhelmingly large. Nothing like Hollywood Park, where HARD Summer takes place. The stages were closer together in walking distance. Far enough apart so the music from one stage did not overlap with another, but close enough that you could make your way to the next set without rushing or missing a beat.
As I wandered the venue, taking in the layout, it was impossible not to notice the crowd. The energy was immediate and infectious. Creative outfits and different age groups filled the space. There was even a group of moms walking around with “free mom hugs” signs attached to themselves. It was proof of the universal language of music and how it brings us all together.
By now, it was time for my next set, and Saturday’s momentum carried me straight to the Arts District stage where Juliet Mendoza set the tone with a seamless blend of house layered with hip hop and R and B classics from the eighties and nineties. The familiarity of those records mixed with deep grooves created a set that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Cquestt followed and shifted the energy into overdrive, leaning into heavy bass with an undeniable pulse and touches of reggaeton that kept the crowd fully engaged. The bass coming through the speakers fueled my body with a fire like energy that simply could not be put out, turning the Arts District stage into a nonstop dance experience and setting the tone for the rest of the night.
Saturday was far from over. Mez Monty kept the momentum alive, but it was Jyoty B2B Zack Fox who truly sealed the night. What a way to close it out. The crowd was locked in from start to finish, every drop hitting harder than the last. I left on a high I have never quite felt before. My body was sore, my back and shoulders aching, legs stiff from hours of dancing. It was finally time to head home and recharge for day two.
This time I arrived on time. I spent the first three hours at the Westside stage, starting the day with Baggi. I love when opening talent understands how to set the tone. Nothing too heavy, just enough to get you amped for what is ahead.
Dee Diggs followed, coming in a little hotter and bringing culture straight to the dance floor. She blends tracks in a way that takes you through different emotions while keeping your feet moving. At one point, I felt like I had stepped into another dimension.
The energy only intensified when Wakyin hit the stage, proudly repping his Puerto Rican and Dominican roots. With bachata and salsa woven into his set, standing still simply was not an option. By then, I was fully locked in and ready to dance until the very last beat of the night.
From I Hate Models to a hardcore beat thumping set by DJ Warning and Star Eyes, there is no way anyone can say Skyline did not deliver. There was truly something for everyone. It was a perfectly curated weekend for newcomers and seasoned ravers alike. If you think Skyline is mid, you may want to reconsider. Underground, mainstream, and house all came together in one weekend. This was the festival that sealed my love for EDM and house events.
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