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04/12/2005: "M3SUMMIT" by Laurence Gartel
You would have to be living under a rock to not know that the week of March 23-26th is the Winter Music Conference in Miami, celebrating its 20th year. Every single DJ that is worth his spin has descended upon Miami for this event. Forget Art Basel, this event rivals that of the commercial Air and Sea Show in Ft. Lauderdale in terms of attendance. Every hotel was completely booked, and the last night culminating with the ULTRA Festival at Bayside, saw more cars in the road than rush hour traffic in New York City. (It was calculated that there were over 75,000 attending the concert). While that may make people nervous, I can tell you that it is also pleasing. People are coming to Miami for "music." They are coming for lifestyle. And in the end, they are coming to get a jolt of life. They most certainly got it during this week if they were able to stay awake for several non-stop days of endless grooving.There were several "mini" events catering to "thousands" during WMC. One such event was the M3SUMMIT now in its second year. Located at both the Raleigh and Surfcomber hotels M3 brings together the lifestyle of those in music, art, fashion and contemporary "uber electronica." Packed with lots of flavor there were sessions on the music industry and the events were filled with talent pool side. John Legend, Cirque du Soleil, Louis Vega, Digable Planets and many more talented musicians performed. All the while there was the "Gadget Lab" sponsored by WIRED MAGAZINE showcasing the latest in cool new technology along with interesting art. (*Yours truly included.)
And what would a night be without a brand new monogrammed towel courtesy of Absolut Vodka and a few hundred thousand drinks served to the passport holders who paid for the privilege of partaking in M3. Check the pictures and interviews and lets already get ready for next year.
I love Miami! Party on!
-GARTEL
March 27, 2005
