Slow Jams Can Heal Us: ‘Slow Drag’, Intimacy and Vulnerability
Whitney Jones' event revives slow dancing, fosters intimacy and inclusivity, and united Black folks through the power of music.
“Slow jams can single-handedly change how Black folks move with each other...it's about leaning into being Black and free and comfortable.”
- Whitney Jones of Slow Drag
In Black music, slow jams are not just an R&B signature, but as a profound medium for connection, vulnerability, and healing. The songs, often nostalgic, helps foster deeper connections among Black people. According to DJ Sir Daniel, "Slow jams are the heartbeat of R&B," further highlighting their role in expressing the complexities of Black love and life.
Whitney Jones, the visionary behind Slow Drag, has taken her love of slow jams to new heights, creating a space where Black folks come together to experience the magic of slow jams in a communal setting. Jones stopped by Queue Points to discuss her work as we honored Valentine’s Day.
For Jones, Slow Drag is not just an event; it's a movement dedicated to reviving the tradition of slow dancing, thereby fostering intimacy and connections that transcend the dance floor. As Jones eloquently puts it, "Slow Drag's mission is to bring Black folk together in a space that not only uplifts the sounds at the heart of Black music but also encourages us to be vulnerable with each other."
The event's atmosphere, characterized by its signature blue lights and 70’s slow jams music selection, creates a haven for attendees to let down their guards and connect on a level that is rare in today's fast-paced world. At Slow Drag, instead of turning up, the whole point is turning down and tuning in. It is a space where Black men and women can shed societal expectations and simply be. “The vulnerability piece alone is such a huge component for me for Slow Drag because, honestly, I feel like Black folks need more softness with each other,” says Jones.
Slow Drag also highlights the significance of creating inclusive spaces within the Black community. Slow Drag welcomes everyone, regardless of their relationship status or sexual orientation, championing the idea that intimacy and connection are universal desires. This inclusivity is crucial in a world where Black queer folks often find themselves marginalized, even within their own communities. It has the potential to heal communities by bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding. In Jones's words, "Slow jams can single-handedly change how Black folks move with each other...it's about leaning into being Black and free and comfortable."
As we continue to navigate the complexities of life, may we always find solace in the slow jams that remind us of the power of our connection, the beauty of vulnerability, and the enduring strength of Black music. What we we have is truly “much more than they can see.”
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"Slow Jams Can Heal Us" celebrates the soulful embrace of love, intimacy and connection. Through the power of slow jams, we're reminded of the deep healing and unity found in the rhythms of love. #SlowJamsHeal