Cathy Dobson
The Journal
There’s nothing Nelson Mella likes better than good music, good people and good times.
That’s why the local DJ is hosting a downtown street party on Saturday with three local musicians and seven DJs changing up the music every 20 minutes or so.
Mella, a local piping designer by day, has spent his nights as a DJ called Phatfingers for the past 17 years.
“When I was 18, I got a chunk of money from a car accident that happened when I was six years old,” he said. “I went out and spent the cash on turntables, a mixer and a crate of records.
“I’ve loved music forever and always wanted to have a big community party like this.”
Since 2008, Mella has organized an event called Beats on a Boat aboard the Duc d’Orleans cruise ship with a few of his DJ buddies. It sells out every year but is limited in size by the capacity of the boat. Now Mella wants to expand the party by bringing it downtown.
When the Refined Fool Brewing Company agreed to partner with him, Beats on the Street was launched. The party takes place in the parking lot immediately east of the Refined Fool, with a stage, a full bar and food prepared by Personal Touch Eatery & Catering.
The entertainment line up ranges from Toronto DJ Hedspin who is headlining, to Ben Ainsworth and Sarah Murray on acoustic guitar.
Rapper D.O. is booked to appear, as well as DJs Joel Demoor (Sarnia), Vin Vicious (Windsor), Ghetto Funk Dwellas (Sarnia), DJ Everfresh (London), and Phatfingers himself.
“Every set will be different,” he said. “Age-wise, there will be something that appeals to everyone from 19 on up.
“If you love music, you’ll enjoy yourself.”
Money is being raised at the 2016 Beats on the Street for Noelle’s Gift and Cystric Fibrosis Canada. More than 200 tickets have already sold.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT? Beats on the Street
WHEN? Saturday, August 20. 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.
WHERE? Parking lot corner of Julia and Davis streets.
TICKETS? $15 advance. $20 at the door. Available at the Refined Fool and Kokomos or online at http://beatsonthestreet.brownpapertickets.com/.
The Arts Journal celebrates Sarnia’s cultural life. Send your ideas to Cathy Dobson at [email protected] or 226-932-0985.