"If they won't give you a chance, make your own damn way"

Rome wasn't built in a day, but I can't say the same about 4:44 the party. Coming together and throwing any event of any kind is pretty stressful, so you can imagine the dedication it takes to put a whole event together in ONE day honoring one of the greats such as Jay-z. The concept of this party started off with a random tweet from Dinnerland's own @MichaelPratt. (Insert tweet). Once @kingnamedcole was given the green light to find a venue, both minds combined and put together this free listening party for the the culture!!!

Jay-z realeasing 4:44 provided a great opportunity to bring NY together for what might be the last time we could get together and celebrate an album release from one of the greatest rappers of our generation.

Upon arrival I was greeted with a pretty hefty line, and some old school jay-z that just reminded me why he was so highly respected as not only a rapper but a song writer. SOBs quickly filled up with eager fans, so quickly that an hour open bar ended up only lasting exactly 34 minutes, while many would be annoyed at this situation, for a party planner how could you be mad at that kind of turnout, and the satisfaction that you get from exceeded expectations placed on you by the venue.

Not only was the places packed with a solid vibe, the Djs and hosts were amazing. The hosts were Dinner land's own @funnyjulius, @cleverlychloe, and @taqueebond. These hosts had an undeniable chemistry on stage, you could tell these three were not only business associates but friends. For instance there was clearly an issue with the sound, these professionals were able to keep everybody engaged while the problem was being solved.

Once the sound was up and running, Djs @mrivorysnow and @kingnamedcole took off. Both Connecticut Djs began alternating some of our favorite classic jay-z records, and blending them perfectly with more recent hits ( for the youngins). These Djs went back and forth controlling the crowd with hit after hit. When the album dropped for a second you could hear a pin drop, we couldn't wait to hear what Uncle Hov cooked up for us. Hearing the album first with so many dope individuals created a great atmosphere, although many in attendance would agree the club is was probably not the best place for this gem, you couldn't trade the vibe for anything in the world.

Although this party wasn't perfect, this Jay-z album created the perfect opportunity for creative minds to get together as one and create something special for NY. After brief conversations with with some people involved I could tell this wasn't about the money, it was about creating new friendships, and manifesting what started off as a tweet. For one night these great hosts (insert hosts) and Djs (insert Djs) sacrificed their time for free to make sure New Yorkers had a dope spot to celebrate the release of 4:44. This party was a success not only because of the attendance but because everyone involved was able to come together as a family in ONE day and produce a quality event.

4:44 Sessions Listening Party at SOBs Review

Christian Allen

The Drake Effect