Wound: a Brief Analysis of Kandi Culture

In the vibrant world of rave culture and electronic dance music (EDM), few symbols are as iconic or carry as much meaning as “kandi.” These colorful beaded bracelets serve as more than mere fashion accessories; they embody a rich tradition of identity, community, and values within the EDM community. Kandi consists of handmade bracelets, necklaces, and other jewelry items, crafted from pony beads and often exchanged among ravers through a specific ritual known as the “PLUR handshake.” This essay explores the significance of kandi, its roots in rave culture, and the values it represents.

Kandi first became popular in the early 1990s when rave culture began to flourish in the United States. Originating from underground scenes in urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco, kandi was inspired by a mix of DIY fashion, the vibrant aesthetics of the 1960s and 70s countercultures, and a desire to create visible tokens of rave community and its inclusive ethos. The colorful beads were not only a way to stand out in the often dimly lit rave settings but also served as a means of communication and connection among attendees.

The act of exchanging kandi is central to its meaning. This exchange is governed by the acronym PLUR, which stands for Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. These principles form the philosophical backbone of rave culture, promoting harmonious social interaction, empathy, and community. The PLUR handshake, which involves a series of hand gestures ending with the transfer of a bracelet from one person’s wrist to another’s, is a ritual that reinforces these values. It transforms the simple act of giving away a bracelet into a meaningful exchange of goodwill and acceptance, creating and deepening bonds within the community.

Moreover, kandi is often personalized with specific patterns, colors, or charms that can signify anything from a favorite music DJ or band to a personal mantra or memory. This customization makes each piece of kandi a unique, personal artifact, imbued with the maker’s energy and story. For many in the rave community, kandi bracelets act as mementos that chronicle their experiences and relationships formed at raves and festivals. The bracelets are worn as badges of honor, each one representing a moment of connection and the shared experience of music and dance.

Kandi’s significance extends beyond its immediate visual appeal and function as a social tool. It also serves as an emblem of identity and a marker of belonging within the rave culture. For those outside this community, the bright, playful appearance of kandi may simply represent an eccentric fashion statement. However, for those within the community, wearing kandi signifies a deeper alignment with the values of PLUR, an ongoing commitment to the ethos of rave culture, and a continuous celebration of its inclusive spirit.

In conclusion, kandi is much more than decorative jewelry; it is a complex symbol laden with cultural significance within the rave and EDM communities. Through its creation, exchange, and display, kandi promotes values of peace, love, unity, and respect, fostering a sense of community and identity among its participants. As rave culture continues to evolve and spread globally, the tradition of kandi remains a vibrant and integral part of this dynamic cultural movement, encapsulating its history, values, and communal spirit.

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