atmos Sounds: Meet Yolo Ono
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar and solar Chinese calendar. To celebrate, our very own Digital Director Marissa Le created a playlist to vibe out to in honor of the Year of the Tiger.
WHO IS YOLO ONO?
I think Yolo Ono used to be my alter ego in my earlier years, but I’m pretty sure we’re the same person now. I’ve been DJing for 10 years playing a wide array of genres, with a deep love for deep house, electro house, and UK Garage.
WHAT SNEAKERS ARE IN YOUR CURRENT ROTATION?
- Reebok Beatniks
- ASICS Andersson Bell x Gel 1090 'Black Silver'
- Nike SB Dunk Low 'atmos Elephant'
- Union LA x Air Jordan 4 Retro 'Off Noir'
- Converse AMBUSH x Chuck 70 'White'
WHEN CREATING A PLAYLIST TO HONOR CHINESE NEW YEAR, WHAT WENT INTO THE THOUGHT PROCESS?
It was important to highlight Asian artists, I wanted to curate some of my favorite tracks from my community - while still showcasing a diverse sound that leans towards the genres I really dig.
I’ve been doing monthly Moon Music playlists based on astrology lately, trying to capture the feeling and energy of the planets in a playlist or vibe as a personal creative exercise.
2022 is the Year of the Water Tiger. In addition to the animals, these 60-year cycles incorporate the 5 elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water.) The Tiger is a strong symbol representing boldness, fierceness, loyalty, and audacity. Water signifies the capacity for change, and also represents abundance and wealth. I tried to pick songs around those themes.
TELL US MORE ABOUT CHINESE NEW YEAR AND WHY IS IT SO SPECIAL TO YOU?
Western culture has become more tuned into the moon, through popularization of astrology and things like that. Many eastern cultures have set their calendars by the activity of the moon for centuries. Growing up, there were so many rituals and superstitions around the New Year observed in my family - from cleaning the whole house before New Years, to offering fruits to our ancestors. What I remember most are the gatherings and celebrations, the red envelopes and Lion dances at all the banquets. Most of growing up and into my teens I did traditional Chinese dance, and often had performances at all the celebrations. It’s special how decorative grand the gatherings are, with fireworks, lanterns, everything.
If you're Philly-based, definitely catch a lion dance performance from the Philadelphia Suns! They are an incredible youth-oriented nonprofit that started in 1972 around community basketball.
HOW DO YOU PICK YOUR STAGE FITS?
Texting 3-4 outfits to my best gal friends ahead of the event, usually. I used to be more extravagant when I was DJing festivals and big club events, then it really felt like an alter ego! Now I keep it more lowkey, usually sneakers or some heeled boots if I really need to bring it.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE SONGS ON THE PLAYLIST?
- “Life Elsewhere 2k2k” is a track from friend Dayo’s project who used to DJ in Philly but moved to LA a few years ago, the vocals are so haunting with the track.
- “Fireworks” by Qrion reminds me of driving through a tunnel at night, the beat is so beautiful and melodic.
- “Comme Des Garcons (Like the Boys)” by Rina Sawayama is a bad bitch anthem, I adore her.
- “Cherry Chapstick (feat. Lolo Zouai)” by REI AMI, Lolo Zouai is another heater - reminds me of Y2K pop music, only with a heavy bassline.
WHAT ARE THREE RECORDS THAT YOU CURRENTLY HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW?
- How Did We Get Here? - Blu DeTiger
- Night Creature - Maya Jane Coles
- Wildest Dreams - Majid Jordan
WHAT DO YOU HAVE COMING NEXT?
Keeping up with my Moon Music playlists, and continuing to DJ wellness events, yoga classes, and clubs! Keep it locked.