In the Wake Tv Exclusive: Black House Black Joy

In the Wake Tv Exclusive: Black House Black Joy

Through intimate storytelling, on-camera narration by community members, and dynamic archival footage, "Black House Black Joy: Mosaic Stories" highlights the culture, historic spaces, and artists who have shaped Newark’s House scene. From legendary DJs and dance floors to the intergenerational impact of the music, each episode explores how House music in Newark is more than a genre—it is a movement, a sanctuary, and a way of life.

This innovative series redefines traditional storytelling by presenting a collection of short, interconnected clips that can be watched in any order, creating a unique, non-linear narrative experience. The non-linear format allows for endless possibilities in how the story unfolds, making each viewing session a fresh and engaging experience. This format also allows the filmmakers to continue their work long-term while utilizing an expansive archive of over 10,000 hours of footage without leaving anything on the cutting room floor. There is no waste; everything is repurposed to tell the story.

"Black House Black Joy: Mosaic Stories" invites audiences to immerse themselves in a world where every clip is a piece of a larger puzzle, offering a multifaceted perspective on the themes of community, resilience, and joy. This series is not just about documenting history—it’s about keeping the culture alive. By centering the voices of those who live, breathe, and create within the scene, the series honors the legacy of Black joy, freedom, and expression through House music. Join us as we celebrate the past, present, and future of House music in Newark, one beat at a time, in the House that New Jersey built.

In the Wake Tv Exclusive: Black House Black Joy
  • Dr. Jasmine Henry on the Power of Community in Club Spaces and Black Church

    Join musicologist and sound engineer Dr. Jasmine Henry as she explores the compassionate community within club spaces, drawing parallels to the supportive environment of the Black Church. Discover how heartfelt participation and genuine expression are celebrated and affirmed, regardless of vocal ...

  • Black House Black Joy Film Series Teaser

  • Black House Black Joy Prelude: Welcome to Newark, New Jersey.

    Welcome to Newark, New Jersey. A city where the sound of Black music is woven into the streets, where every beat tells a story, and every note carries the weight of a people’s joy and resilience. Newark is more than brick and mortar—it’s a wellspring of history, a heartbeat of Black artistry.
    Thi...

  • JoJo Abenaavi on the Transformative Power of Jersey House Music

    In this heartfelt clip from the Black House Black Joy documentary project, JoJo Abenaavi, a renowned house music dancer and teacher, shares the profound reasons why he connects deeply with Jersey dancers. JoJo highlights the incredible stories of resilience and transformation within the Jersey ho...

  • The Art of Club Energy: DJ Jihad Muhammad on Reading the Room

    Master DJ Jihad Muhammad breaks down the essential stages of a perfect club night, sharing his wisdom on the delicate art of energy control. From the warm-up phase to peak hours and the smooth wind-down, Muhammad reveals how seasoned DJs craft their sets to match the natural flow of the night. Th...