In a show of communion, some of the DMV's finest musicians gathered over dinner to examine what the present and future hold for DMV music. As part of Spotify's Frequency initiative to amplify emerging and established Black voices and talent on a regional level, we heard personal stories and perspectives from Big G, Rico Nasty, Pusha T, Ari Lennox, and Spotify’s Black Music and Culture Editor Domo Wells (a.k.a DJ Domo), who also hosts the discussion.

The table discussed what it means to be from the DMV, how the DMV shaped their entry into music, and even called out the lack of local support for musical talent. We also heard these players uplift upcoming artists from all over the DMV, including JG Riff, Whynotduce, Yung Manny and Miss Kam.

The short film has sparked a long-standing debate about who is included in the DMV, with conservative voices arguing once again that Baltimore and the outer stretches of Maryland and Virginia are not included in the otherwise catch-all geological shorthand for D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. These viewpoints take a different direction than the Frequency discussion, in which DJ Domo predicts Baltimore's "takeover" not to mention the relevant fact that the conversation includes Pusha T, who grew up in Virginia Beach.

Furthermore, the film, as well as the idea of Frequency itself, seems grounded in the idea that we are stronger together and when we support one another. In a world where Black voices in music, fashion, business, politics, and more continue to be left out of the narrative, mass community can make all the difference for our prosperity and longevity. So, with the abundance of culture and talent to be appreciated from all over this region, this moment begs the question: who or what does gatekeeping the DMV serve?

Watch the full film here: