Tag: Eargasm Earplugs

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms

News/Announcements: Shoutouts to Patreon Patrons, Creatives Rebuild New York and Asian Arts Initiative

2025 has been one of the more embittering and frustrating years in recent memory. Earlier this year, I thought I had landed a dream job: I was going to be working for a well-regarded, French-based label and distributor, doing work closely related — and aligned — with my work here on JOVM. Remote work, which would allow me to travel. A stipend to go to festivals. Amazing benefits. Generous vacation time. And the sort of payday that would make my life and existence much more comfortable. The fucking dream! 

Understandably, me and my dearest ones were thrilled. A lot of hard work and sacrifice finally paid off! Unfortunately, it all turned out to be smoke and mirrors, a fucking scam that resulted in my bank account being overdrawn.  Sigh. 

I haven’t been able to get any kind of regular work in almost a year — whether freelance, part-time or full-time. Trying to land work is more difficult than ever before: ATS. A.I. 20% of all listings being ghost jobs. Companies not knowing what they’re doing during the hiring process or changing their minds halfway through. 10,000 people applying to every open position within a few hours of the posting going live. And add the occasional networking event that doesn’t lead to much. 

Although I’ve been able to get by here and there with a little help from my friends, as the song says, and from scrounging, scraping and scheming, I’m financially tapped out. Honestly, over the past six weeks or so, I’ve seriously considered giving up; of just walking away and closing up shop. Things have frankly felt extraordinarily difficult in a way that I haven’t experienced before. Nor does it help that we’re simultaneously sliding into a fascistic, autocratic dictatorship and into World War III. Everything is awesome, ain’t it? 

Right now, I have a couple of (hopefully) simple asks of y’all, dear friends: 

  • If you’ve got leads for full-time, part-time, temporary or even project-based editorial, writing and/or photography work, please feel free to reach out. Remote work or work here in the five boroughs would be ideal. So if you follow me on social media, and you know of anything, holler at me through the DMs. And if you know of me IRL, feel free to send a text or email. 
  • If you’re able to give a donation, please free to donate. There’s a donation box on this page.
  • If you’re able to regularly support JOVM through Patreon, please do so. That will be much appreciated, too. Anything you can give is much appreciated, especially in light of — well, (waving hands) everything. 

 

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JOVM recently celebrated its 15th anniversary. Yeah, 15 y’all.

When I started this site, I believed that I wouldn’t get a fair shot to do what I’ve done with this site on another outlet.

Growing up in Corona, Queens I was surrounded by a wildly eclectic, dynamic. global-minded environment. That environment has been a major influence on my life and my work. Look, there’s a lot of music out there. And some of it is awesome, criminally under-rated and not getting the attention it should. 

I’ve managed carved out a unique path for myself — and in the blogosphere through a lot of hard work. Because music media — and generally the media world — is an incredibly homogeneous space, the coverage that you see as a consumer and fan tends to come from a startling similar perspective. Look at the editorial staff at your favorite music magazine, blog or website. Tell me what you see. And when you do see some degree of diversity, it was after many years of fighting, complaining and cajoling — and worse yet, it’s usually in a very limited fashion. It explains why you’ll see the same coverage of the same batches of artists, genres and styles with little difference and less variety. 

With this current administration, things are going to get bad, then worse for marginalized communities, for artists and the arts, for small, independent media outlets, small businesses and for so many others. And all of this happened while large corporations and media outlets have happily bent their knees and lick boots out of fear and greed. 

So it’ll be imperative upon all of you who are financially able and willing to support the work and efforts of artists, creators, writers and thinkers in marginalized groups: Yes, folks of color — especially women. LGBTQ+ folks. Nonbinary folks. Indigenous folks. Latinos and latinas. Asians. Immigrants. And on and on. This is in addition to those folks who are suffering through the incalculable tragedies of climate change-driven disaster and other calamities. 

If you dig their work or you dig a specific cause, and you’re able to support financially, please give to their Patreon, their GoFundMe, OnlyFans or whatever they’re using for donations and tips. Trust me, every single dollar counts, is useful and appreciated. You’ll feel good supporting the blood, sweat and tears of decent, hardworking folks who could really use it, while teaching greedy, craven and spineless assholes some key lessons. A win in my books.

I understand that things are tough for folks. A lot of people are struggling to survive with their dignity intact. If you’re unable to give money, the other way you can support is to amplify these voices. Tell your friends about these artists, influencers, thinkers and causes, and get them to follow them, too. Extra eyeballs to the work really matters — sometimes, it’s someone else who could support through cash. Other times, it’s someone who will faithfully read or follow that person’s work. Or they’ll happily proselytize your causes and your work to others. 

All work — including creative work — is impossible without money. After all, time is money. Effort is money. Then add all the expenses it takes to actually work. So, if you’ve been frequenting this site over the past handful of years, there are a handful of folks I want to thank once again for their support. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to keep this going. 

Sash

Alice Northover

Bella Fox

Jenny MacRostie

Janene Otten 

So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. 

Additionally, I have to thank the helpful, hardworking and dedicated folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, gratified and humbled to have been included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. Understandably, being included was also deeply vindicating. Someone out there thought my work — this very work! — was worth supporting financially. Obviously, the funds from it have managed to keep this labor of love going during one of the most uncertain periods in recent human history, while lessening some of the normal financial pressures of being an American artist, creator and journalist. 

I also found out about Asian Arts Initiative’s Sound Type Workshop through Creatives Rebuild New York. So, I just can’t thank those folks enough. And I’ll forever be in their debt. 

I must thank the folks at the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia for selecting me for the Sound Type Music Writer Workshop. Being a part of the inaugural cohort was an honor. 

Of course, there are other ways you can support. 

You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop  (Er, this is down right now. Sigh.)

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/william_ruben_helms 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/yankee32879 and https://www.twitter.com/joyofviolent 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement

And you can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

Lastly, I’m an Eargasm Earplugs Earinflunecer. Buy a pair, protect your hearing and save 10% by clicking on this code: https://lnkd.in/ewX8ezKZ. I do get a percentage of each sale from that discount code.

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms

News/Announcements: Happy 15th Birthday, JOVM!

2025 has been one of the more embittering and frustrating years in recent memory. Earlier this year, I thought I had landed a dream job: I was going to be working for a well-regarded, French-based label and distributor, doing work closely related — and aligned — with my work here on JOVM. Remote work, which would allow me to travel. A stipend to go to festivals. Amazing benefits. Generous vacation time. And the sort of payday that would make my life and existence much more comfortable. The fucking dream!

Understandably, me and my dearest ones were thrilled. A lot of hard work and sacrifice finally paid off! Unfortunately, it all turned out to be smoke and mirrors, a fucking scam that resulted in my bank account being overdrawn.

I haven’t been able to get any kind of regular work in almost a year — whether freelance, part-time or full-time. Trying to land work is more difficult than ever before: ATS. A.I. 20% of all listings being ghost jobs. Companies not knowing what they’re doing during the hiring process or changing their minds halfway through. 10,000 people applying to every open position within a few hours of the posting going live. And add the occasional networking event that doesn’t lead to much.

Although I’ve been able to get by here and there with a little help from my friends, as the song says, and from scrounging, scraping and scheming, I’m financially tapped out. Honestly, over the past six weeks or so, I’ve seriously considered giving up; of just walking away and closing up shop. Things have frankly felt extraordinarily difficult in a way that I haven’t experienced before. Nor does it help that we’re simultaneously sliding into a fascistic, autocratic dictatorship and into World War III. Everything is awesome, ain’t it?

Right now, I have a couple of (hopefully) simple asks of y’all, dear friends:

  • If you’ve got leads for full-time, part-time, temporary or even project-based editorial, writing and/or photography work, please feel free to reach out. Remote work or work here in the five boroughs would be ideal. So if you follow me on social media, and you know of anything, holler at me through the DMs. And if you know of me IRL, feel free to send a text or email.
  • If you’re able to give a donation, please free to donate. There’s a donation box on this page.
  • If you’re able to regularly support JOVM through Patreon, please do so. That will be much appreciated, too. Anything you can give is much appreciated, especially in light of — well, (waving hands) everything.
One-Time
Monthly
Yearly

Make a one-time donation

Make a monthly donation

Make a yearly donation

Choose an amount

$5.00
$15.00
$100.00
$5.00
$15.00
$100.00
$5.00
$15.00
$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

$

Your contribution is appreciated.

Your contribution is appreciated.

Your contribution is appreciated.

DonateDonate monthlyDonate yearly

This site turns 15 today. 15!

When I started this site, I believed that I wouldn’t get a fair shot to do what I’ve done with this site on another outlet.

Growing up in Corona, Queens I was surrounded by a wildly eclectic, dynamic. global-minded environment. And sort of environment has been a major influence on my life and my work. There’s a lot of music out there. Some of it is awesome and criminally under-rated.

And with this site, I’ve carved out a unique path for myself — and in the blogosphere. Because music media — and generally the media world — is an incredibly homogeneous space, the coverage that you see as a consumer and fan tends to come from a startling similar perspective. Look at the editorial staff at your favorite music magazine, blog or website. Tell me what you see. And when you do see some degree of diversity, it was after many years of fighting, complaining and cajoling — and worse yet, it’s usually in a very limited fashion. It explains why you’ll see the same coverage of the same batches of artists, genres and styles with little difference and less variety. 

With this current administration, things are going to get bad, then worse for marginalized communities, for artists and the arts, for small, independent media outlets, small businesses and for so many others. And all of this happened while large corporations and media outlets have happily bent their knees and lick boots out of fear and greed.

So it’ll be imperative upon all of you who are financially able and willing to support the work and efforts of artists, creators, writers and thinkers in marginalized groups: Yes, folks of color — especially women. LGBTQ+ folks. Nonbinary folks. Indigenous folks. Latinos and latinas. Asians. Immigrants. And on and on. This is in addition to those folks who are suffering through the incalculable tragedies of climate change-driven disaster and other calamities. 

If you dig their work or you dig a specific cause, and you’re able to support financially, please give to their Patreon, their GoFundMe, OnlyFans or whatever they’re using for donations and tips. Trust me, every single dollar counts, is useful and appreciated. You’ll feel good supporting the blood, sweat and tears of decent, hardworking folks who could really use it, while teaching greedy, craven and spineless assholes some key lessons. A win in my books.

I understand that things are tough for folks. A lot of people are struggling to survive with their dignity intact. If you’re unable to give money, the other way you can support is to amplify these voices. Tell your friends about these artists, influencers, thinkers and causes, and get them to follow them, too. Extra eyeballs to the work really matters — sometimes, it’s someone else who could support through cash. Other times, it’s someone who will faithfully read or follow that person’s work. Or they’ll happily proselytize your causes and your work to others. 

All work — including creative work — is impossible without money. After all, time is money. Effort is money. Then add all the expenses it takes to actually work. So, if you’ve been frequenting this site over the past handful of years, there are a handful of folks I want to thank once again for their support. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to keep this going.

Sash

Alice Northover

Bella Fox

Jenny MacRostie

Janene Otten 

So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. 

Additionally, I have to thank the helpful, hardworking and dedicated folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, gratified and humbled to have been included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. Understandably, being included was also deeply vindicating. Someone out there thought my work — this very work! — was worth supporting financially. Obviously, the funds from it have managed to keep this labor of love going during one of the most uncertain periods in recent human history, while lessening some of the normal financial pressures of being an American artist, creator and journalist. 

I also found out about Asian Arts Initiative’s Sound Type Workshop through Creatives Rebuild New York. So, I just can’t thank those folks enough. And I’ll forever be in their debt. 

I must thank the folks at the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia for selecting me for the Sound Type Music Writer Workshop. Being a part of the inaugural cohort was an honor. 

Of course, there are other ways you can support. 

You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop 

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/william_ruben_helms 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/yankee32879 and https://www.twitter.com/joyofviolent 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement

And you can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

Lastly, I’m an Eargasm Earplugs Earinflunecer. Buy a pair, protect your hearing and save 10% by clicking on this code: https://lnkd.in/ewX8ezKZ. I do get a percentage of each sale from that discount code.

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms

News/Announcements: Happy 14th Birthday, JOVM!

I’m leaving Wichita today and I’m on my way back home to Corona, Queens. In the upcoming days and weeks, expect to see pictures, words and more from the inaugural Elsewhere Festival, as well as countless other things from my weekend in Kansas’ biggest city. (Thank you Midtopia and Marauder!)

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post: Although I’m traveling and working, the show still has to go on as much as humanly possible. So let’s get to it, right?

I started this site 14 years ago today. 14 years of anything — especially a job — is an exceedingly long time. In the blogosphere, that’s roughly 22 lifetimes. Now, when I started JOVM, I was felt as though I had no real choice but to go out on my own. I didn’t feel — or believe — that I’d get a fair shot to do what this site has become with another outlet.

I’ve long felt a desire to create something similar to the wildly eclectic, dynamic, global sort of environment I grew up immersed in as a young, Black boy from Corona, Queens. And I didn’t regularly see the environment I grew up in represented in the music magazines and sites that I loved to read. To me, that’s a real weakness because — well, there’s amazing music out there that’s not getting the love that it should both nationally and internationally.

Now, when I started tis site, I couldn’t have imagined the opportunities, the things I’ve covered and the things I’ve experienced to have ever happened.

  • I’ve covered roughly 1,100-1,200 shows in NYC, with a handful of shows in Chicago, Baltimore and Philadelphia
  • I’ve covered about a dozen or more festivals, including traveling to Montreal for M for Montreal twice — in 2019 and last year
  • I’ve been a panelist at Mondo.NYC Festival and at New Colossus Festival, speaking about PR, promotion and press for indie artists, giving my perspective as a indie blogger
  • I made a cameo in a JOVM mainstay’s music video — and it’s a very noticeable spot towards the end of the video 
  • I’ve photographed George Clinton, Patti LaBelle, Buddy Guy, Snoop Dogg, Blondie, Nile Rodgers, Roky Erickson, Philip Bailey, Blind Boys of Alabama, and a growing list of legendary and beloved artists, as well as this site’s growing list of mainstays
  • By the time, this posts, I would have been a panelist at the inaugural Elsewhere Music Festival and Conference in Wichita, speaking about creating a career in music

With this site, I’ve managed to carve out a unique path for myself — and in the blogosphere. Because music media — and generally the media world — is an incredibly homogeneous space, the coverage that you see as a consumer and fan tends to come from a similar perspective. If you don’t believe me, look at the editorial staff at your favorite music magazine or website. It explains why certain artists, genres and styles are covered over others. But it also explains why you see the exact same coverage of the same artists, genres and styles, too. 

I’m looking forward to what year 14 holds for JOVM. And hopefully with your support, I can keep this thing going. Now, as you know, I’ve said this many times: All work — including creative work — is impossible without money. After all, time is money. Effort is money. Then add all the expenses it takes to actually work. 

Unsurprisingly, this site and the work that makes it possible is impossible without money. It’s a simple — and often frustrating — fact of life. So, if you’ve been frequenting this site over the past handful of years, there are a handful of folks I want to thank once again for their support:  

Sash

Alice Northover

Bella Fox

Jenny MacRostie

Janene Otten 

All of those folks have been generous Patreon patrons. Every and any amount really helps keeps this sort of journalism and criticism alive and ongoing. So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. 

Additionally, I have to thank the helpful, hardworking and dedicated folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, gratified and humbled to have been included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. Understandably, being included was also deeply vindicating. Someone out there thought my work — this very work! — was worth supporting financially. Obviously, the funds from it have managed to keep this labor of love going during one of the most uncertain periods in recent human history, while lessening some of the normal financial pressures of being an American artist, creator and journalist. 

I also found out about Asian Arts Initiative’s Sound Type Workshop through Creatives Rebuild New York. So, I just can’t thank those folks enough. And I’ll forever be in their debt. 

I must thank the folks at the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia for selecting me for the Sound Type Music Writer Workshop. I’ll be back in Philly in July, and I’m looking forward to seeing the AAI team and the rest of the cohort again. Plus, some new Philly friends. 

There are other ways you can support. 

You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop 

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/william_ruben_helms 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/yankee32879 and https://www.twitter.com/joyofviolent 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement

And you can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

Happy birthday to one of the best jobs I’ve ever had!

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms

News/Announcements: (Overdue) Shoutouts to Patreon Patrons, Creatives Rebuild New York and Asian Art Initiative Philadelphia

March was such a busy month for me that I somehow forgot my monthly shoutouts to my Patreon patrons, Creatives Rebuild New York and Asian Art Initiative. My bad y’all. I’ll try to not let it happen again. So an overdue shoutout to all of ya’ll is below . . .

2023 was one of more embittering, infuriating and maddening years in recent memory for me. And it doesn’t help that with this line of work, it’s all too easy to battle and endure feelings of loneliness, despair and failure; to feel and believe that you’re an imposter. I’ve personally found it to be a brutal, unforgiving and wildly interesting life and career path that can’t — and will never — compare to most other jobs I’ve ever previously had. And I’ve had quite a few of them in my life! 

The Joy of Violent Movement turns 14 in June. 14 years of doing anything is a very long time. It’s close to a quarter of my life. And for the blogosphere, that’s roughly somewhere between 10-139 lifetimes. Now, it hasn’t always been easy. There have been moments, where it felt impossible to manage this thing and to keep it going. To be frank, as the kids say “the math ain’t matching.” But for the most part, I can say this: I’ve felt and believed with every fiber of my being that I needed to be brave and bold, and go out on my own, because I didn’t believe that I’d really get a fair shot to do this work for anyone else. 

I’ve said this for many years: I’ve long felt strong desire — and need — to create something similar to the wildly eclectic, dynamic and global sort of environment I grew up immersed in as a young Black boy in Corona, Queens. Unsurprisingly, whenever I remember I read my favorite music magazines and sites, I never saw the world I grew up in being covered or represented in any significant or meaningful way. 

From my own experiences working in book publishing and as a music journalist, I’ve learn that as much as you can demand fairness, diversity and inclusion, it’s still ultimately up to the powers in control to see it, hear it, understand it, take it to heart and actually do something about it. So what do you do when those in power don’t get it — or don’t want to get it? Well, then it might be time to grit your teeth and try to do it your own damn self. 

When I started this site back in 2020, I din’t — and just couldn’t have — imagine the majority of the things I’ve experienced, seen and covered throughout its history to have ever happened. 

What will JOVM’s 14th year hold? Generally speaking my hope is always for bigger and better for the site for y’all as readers. Earlier this month, I announced on this site that I was selected to be in the inaugural cohort for Asian Arts Initiative’s (AAI) Sound Type Music Writers Workshop in Philadelphia. So some explanation: Sound Type is AAI’s music festival designed to support and uplift new, courage music from the Asian Diaspora and beyond. The Music Writers Workshop will provide journalists and critics a series of workshops, gatherings and mentorships meant to help held build a sustainable ecosystem of BIPOC musicians and writers of criticism. The writers will attend and write about the concerts and other music programs at the festival — and it’ll be published after AAI’s 2024 season.

I said this to my former boss and very dear friend on Twitter — or whatever the fuck Elon wants to call it these days: “Sometimes, in the throes of things, it’s easy to forget all of our accomplishments. And when you do get a chance to look back on things, it’s astonishing.” But as I think of it now, I should have added: You know, the other thing I realized is that in the rush and busyness of my life, I don’t always have the time or the ability to fully absorb everything. Before writing this post, I was talking with my mother about some of my current and evolving frustrations. At some point, I mentioned the Sound Type Workshop and said that because of its emphasis on BIPOC folks, it’s a real acknowledgment of issues within the field. For that, I feel seen. It’s the rare time that I’ve felt so seen. 

That’s the biggest and most important professional and personal development of my year to date. And admittedly, I feel a mix of things: For the better part of a year or so, I’ve felt like I’ve hit a wall professionally. There’s this sense of annoyance and frustration that this has taken so long. I mean, I have to admit that chronologically speaking, I’m not young. But I also feel a great sense of pride and vindication. I felt seen. And seen in a way that I haven’t truly felt in some time. 

I strayed a bit from the normal messaging. But back to the matter at hand: With your support, I can keep this unique space going. I’ve said this ad infinitum through this site, my social media feeds and to friends and family: All work — especially creative work — is impossible without money. Time is money. Effort is money. And it always costs money for the thing(s) that you need to actually do and exhibit the work. 

There are a handful of folks I need to thank for their continued support: 

  • Sash
  • Alice Northover
  • Bella Fox
  • Jenny MacRostie
  • Janene Otten 

All of those folks have been generous Patreon patrons. Every and any amount really helps keeps this sort of journalism, photojournalism, and criticism alive and ongoing. 

So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. Whatever you can give is appreciated and will help. Independent journalists and artists are small businesses. And supporting small businesses survive and become sustainable is desperately needed — especially if they’re Black businesses. 

Additionally, I have to thank the helpful, hardworking and dedicated folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, gratified and humbled to have been included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. Understandably, being included was also deeply vindicating. Someone out there thought my work — this very work! — was worth supporting financially. Obviously, the funds from it have managed to keep this labor of love going during one of the most uncertain periods in recent human history, while lessening some of the normal financial pressures of being an American artist, creator and journalist. 

I also found out about the Sound Type Workshop through Creatives Rebuild New York. So, I just can’t thank those folks enough. And I’ll forever be in their debt. 

I must thank the folks at the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia for selecting me for the Sound Type Music Writer Workshop. I’ll be in Philly in a few weeks and I’m looking forward to meeting the AAI team and the rest of the cohort. I’m profoundly lucky to be part of a group of interesting, talented folks from an eclectic array of backgrounds and experiences. 

There are a few ways that you can support this site and my work.You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop 

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

You can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

I’m an Eargasm Earplugs Earinflunecer. Buy a pair, protect your hearing and save 10% by clicking on this code: https://lnkd.in/ewX8ezKZ. I do get a percentage of each sale from that discount code. 

Lastly, keep on reading. Without y’all, none of this would be possible.

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms

News/Announcements: Shoutouts to Patreon Patrons, Creatives Rebuild New York and Asian Arts Initiative, Philadelphia

2023 was one of more embittering, infuriating and maddening years in recent memory for me. And it doesn’t help that with this line of work, it’s all too easy to battle and endure feelings of loneliness, despair and failure; to feel and believe that you’re an imposter. I’ve personally found it to be a brutal, unforgiving and wildly interesting life and career path that can’t — and will never — compare to most other jobs I’ve ever previously had. And I’ve had quite a few of them in my life! 

The Joy of Violent Movement turns 14 in June. 14 years of doing anything is a very long time. It’s close to a quarter of my life. And for the blogosphere, that’s roughly somewhere between 10-139 lifetimes. Now, it hasn’t always been easy. There have been moments, where it felt impossible to manage this thing and to keep it going. To be frank, as the kids say “the math ain’t matching.” But for the most part, I can say this: I’ve felt and believed with every fiber of my being that I needed to be brave and bold, and go out on my own, because I didn’t believe that I’d really get a fair shot to do this work for anyone else.

I’ve said this for many years: I’ve long felt strong desire — and need — to create something similar to the wildly eclectic, dynamic and global sort of environment I grew up immersed in as a young Black boy in Corona, Queens. Unsurprisingly, whenever I remember I read my favorite music magazines and sites, I never saw the world I grew up in being covered or represented in any significant or meaningful way.

From my own experiences working in book publishing and as a music journalist, I’ve learn that as much as you can demand fairness, diversity and inclusion, it’s still ultimately up to the powers in control to see it, hear it, understand it, take it to heart and actually do something about it. So what do you do when those in power don’t get it — or don’t want to get it? Well, then it might be time to grit your teeth and try to do it your own damn self.

When I started this site back in 2020, I din’t — and just couldn’t have — imagine the majority of the things I’ve experienced, seen and covered throughout its history to have ever happened.

What will JOVM’s 14th year hold? Generally speaking my hope is always for bigger and better for the site for y’all as readers. Earlier this month, I announced on this site that I was selected to be in the inaugural cohort for Asian Arts Initiative’s (AAI) Sound Type Music Writers Workshop in Philadelphia. So some explanation: Sound Type is AAI’s music festival designed to support and uplift new, courage music from the Asian Diaspora and beyond. The Music Writers Workshop will provide journalists and critics a series of workshops, gatherings and mentorships meant to help held build a sustainable ecosystem of BIPOC musicians and writers of criticism. The writers will attend and write about the concerts and other music programs at the festival — and it’ll be published after AAI’s 2024 season.

I said this to my former boss and very dear friend on Twitter — or whatever the fuck Elon wants to call it these days: “Sometimes, in the throes of things, it’s easy to forget all of our accomplishments. And when you do get a chance to look back on things, it’s astonishing.” But as I think of it now, I should have added: You know, the other thing I realized is that in the rush and busyness of my life, I don’t always have the time or the ability to fully absorb everything. Before writing this post, I was talking with my mother about some of my current and evolving frustrations. At some point, I mentioned the Sound Type Workshop and said that because of its emphasis on BIPOC folks, it’s a real acknowledgment of issues within the field. For that, I feel seen. It’s the rare time that I’ve felt so seen.

That’s the biggest and most important professional and personal development of my year to date. And admittedly, I feel a mix of things: For the better part of a year or so, I’ve felt like I’ve hit a wall professionally. There’s this sense of annoyance and frustration that this has taken so long. I mean, I have to admit that chronologically speaking, I’m not young. But I also feel a great sense of pride and vindication. I felt seen. And seen in a way that I haven’t truly felt in some time.

I strayed a bit from the normal messaging. But back to the matter at hand: With your support, I can keep this unique space going. I’ve said this ad infinitum through this site, my social media feeds and to friends and family: All work — especially creative work — is impossible without money. Time is money. Effort is money. And it always costs money for the thing(s) that you need to actually do and exhibit the work.

There are a handful of folks I need to thank for their continued support:

  • Sash
  • Alice Northover
  • Bella Fox
  • Jenny MacRostie
  • Janene Otten 

All of those folks have been generous Patreon patrons. Every and any amount really helps keeps this sort of journalism, photojournalism, and criticism alive and ongoing. 

So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. Whatever you can give is appreciated and will help. Independent journalists and artists are small businesses. And supporting small businesses survive and become sustainable is desperately needed — especially if they’re Black businesses. 

Additionally, I have to thank the helpful, hardworking and dedicated folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, gratified and humbled to have been included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. Understandably, being included was also deeply vindicating. Someone out there thought my work — this very work! — was worth supporting financially. Obviously, the funds from it have managed to keep this labor of love going during one of the most uncertain periods in recent human history, while lessening some of the normal financial pressures of being an American artist, creator and journalist. 

I also found out about the Sound Type Workshop through Creatives Rebuild New York. So, I just can’t thank those folks enough. And I’ll forever be in their debt.

I must thank the folks at the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia for selecting me for the Sound Type Music Writer Workshop. I’ll be in Philly in a few weeks and I’m looking forward to meeting the AAI team and the rest of the cohort. I’m profoundly lucky to be part of a group of interesting, talented folks from an eclectic array of backgrounds and experiences.

There are a few ways that you can support this site and my work.You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop 

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

You can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

I’m an Eargasm Earplugs Earinflunecer. Buy a pair, protect your hearing and save 10% by clicking on this code: https://lnkd.in/ewX8ezKZ. I do get a percentage of each sale from that discount code.

Lastly, keep on reading. Without y’all, none of this would be possible.

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms

News/Announcements: Shoutouts to Patreon Patrons and Creatives Rebuild New York

I’ve had some very difficult and challenging years in my life. (At this juncture, haven’t we all?) But most of the course of 2023 has been embittering, infuriating and maddening. And as the year closes, I can only think of a handful of years, where I felt as though I limped away from the carnage, feeling angry, frustrated and dejected. Certainly, in this line of work, it’s all too easy to battle and endure feelings of loneliness and failure; to feel and believe that you’re an imposter. It’s a brutal, unforgiving and wildly interesting life that can’t — and won’t — compare to most other jobs.

As y’all are well aware, I started this site over 13 years ago. 13 years of just about anything is a very long time. It’s roughly about a quarter of my life. And in the blogosphere that’s somewhere between 10-139 lifetimes. It hasn’t always been easy and there have been moments, where recently I have wondered how I’ve managed to keep doing this for so long. What I can say is this: I’ve generally felt that I needed to go out on my own because I didn’t believe — or feel — as though I’d get a fair shot to do this work anyplace else.

Personally, I’ve long felt a strong desire — and need — to create something similar to the wildly eclectic, dynamic, global sort of environment I grew up immersed in as a young Black boy in Corona, Queens. Sadly, when I read my favorite music magazines and sites, I didn’t always see that covered or represented. Sometimes, you have to go out there and force the issue about representation, shouting and throwing a fit until someone actually pays attention. Sadly, that sort of yeoman’s work is necessary — and will continue to be so for some time.

Now, when I started JOVM back in 2010, I didn’t — and just couldn’t have — imagined the majority of the things I’ve experienced and covered throughout the site’s history to have happened.

And although 2023 has been so embittering and nasty, there were a handful of very cool things that happened, that I’m quite proud of:

I DJ’d at Clem’s twice. And if you missed those sets, you can check out the playlists:

Caption: My first paid DJ set features an eclectic four+ hour mix of Afrobeat, classic soul, a few cult favorite covers of beloved songs, contemporary purveyors of the classic soul sound, mind-bending cosmic jazz funk and house music. I’m proud to say that I had heads bobbing throughout the night — and to my knowledge, I was one of the rare DJs to have management turn me up almost as loud as the room could take. I’ll always remember that — and the nerve-wracking, exhausting fun it all was.
Caption: My second paid DJ set, playfully titled “Flight 777” features an even more eclectic four+ hour mix of music from all over the world including Bollywood, electronic dance, New Wave, post-punk, soul, funk and Latin soul.

I covered Afropunk for the first time in close to a decade. Although I’ve heard from various sources about various issues with the festival and its organizers, the overall experience was much-needed and lifted my soul. I covered that one for my dear Aussie friends, Musicology.xyz. Photos appear here:

http://gallery.musicology.xyz/afropunk-2023-day-1

http://gallery.musicology.xyz/afropunk-2023-day-2

I finally saw the mighty OSees tear the walls and roof down at Warsaw. I also covered that one for my dear Aussie friends, Musicology.xyz. Photos are available here:

http://gallery.musicology.xyz/osees

While covering acclaimed Aussie JOVM mainstay Genesis Owusu at Elsewhere, I managed to capture what was one fan’s highlight of their life. Ironically, I had been feeling particularly discouraged during that time. But finding that out kept me going. Sometimes it really is the little things, y’all.

IMG_0980
Caption: JOVM mainstay Genesis Owusu signing a bible for a fan, during his October headlining set at Elsewhere in Bushwick.

I caught the mighty Slowdive play a headlining show at Webster Hall. Their work sometimes is a warm, comforting blanket and to be in a room with that enveloping sound was wonderful. https://thejoyofviolentmovement.wpcomstaging.com/live-concert-photography-slowdive-with-drab-majesty-at-webster-hall-9-28-23/

I finally obtained a New York City-issued press card. And with that card, I shot the following:

What will year 14 hold for JOVM? Hell, I don’t really know. Plus, I turn 45 in March. So, it’s also a milestone year. My hope is always for bigger and better for the site and for y’all as readers.

Of course, with your support I can keep this unique space going. Now, I’ve said this ad infinitum through site and on my social media feeds: All work — including creative work — is impossible without money. The old adage is true: Time is money. Effort is money. And it costs money for the thing(s) that you need to actually do the work.

If you’ve been frequenting this site over the past handful of years, there are a handful of folks I want to thank once again for their support:  

  • Sash
  • Alice Northover
  • Bella Fox
  • Jenny MacRostie
  • Janene Otten 

All of those folks have been generous Patreon patrons. Every and any amount really helps keeps this sort of journalism, photojournalism, and criticism alive and ongoing. 

So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. Whatever you can give is appreciated and will help. Independent journalists and artists are small businesses. And supporting small businesses survive and become sustainable is desperately needed — especially if they’re Black businesses.

Additionally, I have to thank the helpful, hardworking and dedicated folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, gratified and humbled to have been included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. Understandably, being included was also deeply vindicating. Someone out there thought my work — this very work! — was worth supporting financially. Obviously, the funds from it have managed to keep this labor of love going during one of the most uncertain periods in recent human history, while lessening some of the normal financial pressures of being an American artist, creator and journalist.

Frankly, I haven’t been able to thank them enough. But I’ll be grateful for the program for the rest of my life.

There are several other ways that you can support this site and my work. You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop 

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

You can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

I’m an Eargasm Earplugs Earinflunecer. Buy a pair, protect your hearing and save 10% by clicking on this code: https://lnkd.in/ewX8ezKZ. I do get a percentage of each sale from that discount code.

As the year closes, I hope that you and your loved ones will have a safe, prosperous and healthy 2024. May we all take part in the necessary work to get the world right. War, inequality, strife, poverty and all other exploitive and detrimental human systems can be over, if we want them to.

News/Announcements by William Ruben Helms


News/Announcements: Shoutouts To Patreon Patrons And Creatives Rebuild New York

I started this site 13 years ago. 13 years of anything is a long time. And in the blogosphere that’s roughly 10-12 lifetimes. I’ve long felt as though I had no choice but to go out on my own because I didn’t feel — or believe — that I’d get a fair shot to do what I do elsewhere. But I felt a strong need to create something similar to the wildly eclectic, dynamic, global sort of environment I grew up immersed in as a Black boy from Corona, Queens, and that I didn’t see whenever I read my favorite magazine and sites. When I started JOVM, I didn’t — and couldn’t have — imagined most, if not all of the things I’ve experienced and covered throughout this site’s lengthy history to ever have happened. 

With this site, I’ve managed to carve out a unique path for myself — and in the blogosphere. Because music media — and generally the media world — is an incredibly homogeneous space, the coverage that you see as a consumer and fan tends to come from a similar perspective. If you don’t believe me, look at the editorial staff at your favorite music magazine or website. It explains why certain artists, genres and styles are covered over others. But it also explains why you see the exact same coverage of the same artists, genres and styles, too. As long as JOVM exists, you’re going to get eclectic and diverse music coverage from my perspective.

I’m looking forward to what year 14 holds for JOVM. And hopefully with your support, I can keep this thing going. Now, as you know, I’ve said this many times: All work — including creative work — is impossible without money. After all, time is money. Effort is money. Then add all the expenses it takes to actually work. Unsurprisingly, this site and the work that makes it possible is impossible without money. It’s a simple — and often frustrating — fact of life. 

So, if you’ve been frequenting this site over the past handful of years, there are a handful of folks I want to thank once again for their support:  

  • Sash
  • Alice Northover
  • Bella Fox
  • Jenny MacRostie
  • Janene Otten 

All of those folks have been generous Patreon patrons. Every and any amount really helps keeps this sort of journalism and criticism alive and ongoing. 

So if you’re able and willing, please feel free to check out the Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/TheJoyofViolentMovement. 

Additionally, I have to thank the hardworking folks at Creatives Rebuild New York. I’m proud, relieved and humbled to be included in their 18-month Guaranteed Income for Artists program. My participation in the Guaranteed Income for Artists program has been put to good use — keeping this dream of mine going while having some of the normal financial pressures lessened a bit. There aren’t enough words to thank them — or to show them how grateful I am; but I’ll keep trying! 


There are other ways you can support. You can also support by checking the JOVM shop. I sell prints in various sizes. I also have bumper stickers. Check it out: https://www.joyofviolentmovement.com/shop 

You can also support my following me on the following platforms:

You can hire me for headshots, portraits and events. Seriously, I’m available for that, too. You can click here: https://www.photobooker.com/photographer/ny/new-york/william-h?duration=1?duration=1# or you can contact me directly.

I’m an Eargasm Earplugs Earinflunecer. Buy a pair, protect your hearing and save 10% by clicking on this code: https://lnkd.in/ewX8ezKZ. I do get a percentage of each sale from that discount code.

Sponsored Post by William Ruben Helms

Advertisement: Eargasm Earplugs

JOVM’s William Ruben Helms uses Eargasm Earplugs to protect his hearing while covering and attending shows.