THE POWER OF MUSIC AND UNITY
- Heart Of Hollywood Team
- Apr 20
- 4 min read
How Independent Artist Jackson Taylor Turned a Backyard Gathering into an Impactful Platform
On February 15th of this year, Los Angeles saw the return of an event that celebrated not just creativity and music, but also the power of community. A Very Lovely Block Party, founded by Jackson Taylor, an independent and incredibly passionate artist with a big vision, was the perfect way to bring together like-minded folks for an unforgettable night.
The event was more than just a party; it was an experience that connected artists, local businesses, and neighbors, in an effort to push forward the creative scene in Los Angeles while shining a light on a crucial social issue.
This event marked the second of its kind, with the first one being a self-made gathering in Jackson’s backyard. The first party was a major hit, bringing over 200 people together to enjoy a mix of live performances, food, and vendors. It gained a lot of attention, and it became clear that Jackson had something special on his hands. After the success of his first backyard event, he decided it was time to step things up and move to a larger venue to make a bigger impact. This time, the location was even more central—right in the heart of Los Angeles, in a neighborhood that truly embodied the diverse and vibrant culture the city is known for.
The event’s purpose went beyond just creating a fun atmosphere. Jackson’s mission was to unite people and raise awareness about an ongoing crisis that can affect families across the country: inhumane treatment of immigrants facing deportation. As part of the event, Jackson and his team partnered with CHIRLA, The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of immigrants. They fought not only for humane treatment but also for the rights of families who are being torn apart.
What made this event even more special was the way it highlighted CHIRLA’s values while still providing a fun, light-hearted environment. The lineup was a true reflection of this; it included a mix of local acts and genres that appealed to every kind of music lover. From the alternative folk vibes of Fat, Evil Children to the bold, alternative hip-hop sound of Maddox Fair, and even the smooth, soulful R&B/neo-soul tunes of Jackson himself, the music set the perfect tone. DJs kept the energy high between sets, making sure the crowd never lost its vibe.
Not only was this an event for music, but it also served as a platform for local businesses and creators to shine. The event was held in partnership with 719, a cute local vintage store that specializes in unique tops and accessories, which had its own booth along with other businesses from the block. Shops like The Crowd Went Wild and
Virgil Cafe stayed open throughout the event, inviting attendees to pop by, grab a drink, or just hang out. It was the perfect mix of creativity, community, and commerce. The vibe felt truly like a neighborhood gathering, where local stores and artists supported each other to create something bigger than just their individual efforts.
Adding even more value to the event, there was a five-dollar Valentine’s Gram stand where people could purchase small, heartfelt gifts, with all the proceeds going to CHIRLA. Local brands like KatPif, Knowname, Get Blingy, 20zero0, and Sugawota also had booths, offering everything from accessories to clothing. It was a perfect display of Los Angeles’ creative energy, and the mix of streetwear, jewelry, and unique items reflected the city’s eclectic spirit.
Another adorable touch was the Valentine’s Day-themed photo booth, shot by @garrettsarchive, which was a total hit with everyone. With a charming backdrop, it was the perfect spot for couples, friends, or families to have a cute picture snapped to commemorate the evening. It was fun, interactive, and added an extra layer of sweetness to the celebration of love and community.
One of the best parts of the event, though, was the sponsorship by Fat Sal’s. The popular eatery generously gave out complimentary sandwiches to everyone attending. The free food was the cherry on top of a night full of good vibes, as people gathered together, ate, and danced in solidarity with a cause that mattered to them.
Overall, A Very Lovely Block Party was a testament to the power of community. It was an evening where artists, businesses, and residents of Los Angeles came together for a common purpose. This event wasn’t just a fun night out—it was a reminder that when we come together, we can push the boundaries of creativity and make a difference in the world around us.
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