It's no secret that Boston has a deep well of musical talent, but it often doesn't get the spotlight it deserves. That's about to change with the release of "Dear Summer Vol. 2," a mixtape brimming with local flavor. Spearheaded by Mayor Michelle Wu, in partnership with the city's Office of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment, this project is a love letter to the vibrant sounds and souls of Boston's communities, featuring a robust lineup of the city's finest musical acts.
"Summer in Boston is a truly special time for our residents, families and communities across every neighborhood. We are proud and grateful that incredible talent calls Boston home, and that these amazing artists and creatives create space for community and culture building all year long," Mayor Michelle Wu stated. With 17 tracks, "Dear Summer Vol. 2" showcases a variety of genres, from Hip-Hop to R&B, and even a hint of Latin Folk, with efforts to amplify the messages and stories inherent in the Boston's sound.
But the mixtape isn't just about the music – it's about community. "This project exemplifies exactly that. It is more than just a mixtape, but a testament to the power of music and love," shared Brighton-based Pop/R&B/Soul artist Julia Chisholm in the original announcement. Her sentiments echo the aspirations of city's leadership that not only nurtures local talent but also builds connections across its diverse neighborhoods through the universal language of music.
Each of the artists brings to the table a stylistic slice of the Boston's cultural tapestry. Featured DJs like Cammy V and L'Duke spin threads from Medford while Knszwrth and DJ Prince represent Dorchester, hinting at the geographic and creative breadth of the mixtape. Local artists such as Amandi, Leo the Kind, and Zola Simone contribute their stories set to chords and melodies, and the result is a soundtrack that's as unique as the city itself. "Boston is a booming art city and the New England region as a whole is so slept on," Dorchester-based DJ Knszwrth told Boston.gov.
A collaboration like "Dear Summer Vol. 2" is as much about social fabric as it is about entertainment. Music curator and executive producer Chimel “ReaL P” Idiokitas' role in drawing talent and insight together is central to this venture, ensuring that the final product not only sounds good but also feels like home. So Boston, get ready to add some fresh, homegrown music to your summer playlists. The mixtape can be streamed on various platforms including Soundcloud, Spotify, and Apple Music through the city’s website, making it easily accessible for a joyous soundtrack to this summer.
