A Brief History
Rave culture began in the late ’80s to early ’90s with the rise of “house” music, short for warehouse music. Some sources suggest that raves might have become so popular because of the popularity of disco clubs in the years before. During this decade, it became increasingly popular to participate in these large parties in abandoned warehouses. Interestingly enough, the DJ most commonly credited with the “creation” of house music was an openly gay black man, which was an uncommon combination for that time. Many of the other popular DJs during that time were also queer people of color, creating a safe place for people of those communities.
PLUR
Peace, Love, Unity, Respect. These are the core of rave culture, as long as we all have fun and follow these principles, rave culture will remain as it is. The point of raving is to celebrate the love of music with other like-minded people. Since rave was mostly created by people who were in minorities, it creates a space for other people who “don’t fit in.” Another aspect of rave culture is the tradition of kandi trading. There is something of a routine where the people trading bracelets do a series of hand motions that represent each element of PLUR. Because of these core values, it’s a common idea that raves tend to be safer than clubs.
Music
The most popular genres of music played at raves are EDM, house music, and techno. These subgenres are characterized by the use of electronic instruments, synthesizers, and digital production techniques, emphasizing beats, rhythms, and often instrumental compositions. While originally, raves were smaller private parties, the increasing popularity of electronic dance music helped grow the scene. Daft Punk is a very popular band that is known by pretty much everyone, and has definitely grown the curiosity about the raving scene.
Rave Wear
While it is common to see all sorts of clothing at these events, the most fun and popular types of outfits that many people are drawn to are very colorful. Neon colors that react with the strobe lights and black lights are most common. Feminine clothing is typically tight, so that they can move and dance freely, while masculine clothing is normally more loose with fun patterns. Though most raves have certain themes, clothing will typically pertain to whatever that might be.
Dark Aspects
Although it is true that raves do tend to be safer than clubs, as there is more respect in general to everyone involved, there are some people who don’t follow those ideals. With any large gathering of mostly adults, there are sometimes problems with sexual harassment. Due to the nature of rave clothing, some men (specifically) feel entitled to cop a feel. Another large part of the dark side of rave culture is the wide range of drug use at these functions. That is why many, if not all, raves are 18+. While alcohol and common drug use (marijuana and tobacco) are still common, it is less common to find hard drug use (ecstasy, mushrooms, heroin, etc.) at these events. So while it is important to watch for your own safety, do not let these small pockets of bad people among so many amazing people scare you away from exploring fun music and experiences.
