The Beat of a Dream: Mervin Montante, aka with love, harlōw

“Sorry, Mom and Dad, I’m not a doctor,” quipped Mervin Montante, the vibrant multi-genre producer and artist better known by his stage name with love, harlōw. This humorous sentiment resonates deeply with the eclectic crowd of dancers swaying to a heavy blend of electronic, Afro house, and Baile funk during a recent “SECRET HOUSE” show at 27th Letter Books in southwest Detroit. At 35, Montante has chosen the unconventional path of music over a secure dental career, carving his unique space in Detroit’s dynamic music scene.

From Dentistry to DJing

Montante’s journey took a pivotal turn when he decided to leave behind his Basic Medical Sciences Master’s program at Wayne State University. “I took my life savings and began investing in myself,” he shared, emphasizing his commitment to learning everything about being an artist, producer, mixing engineer, and creative director. This transition not only encapsulates a pursuit of passion but also a desire to represent underrepresented voices in the arts: “I want to show someone that looks like me… to just really go for it.”

A Grassroots Movement

The evolution of Montante’s career over the last two years serves as a testament to resilience and grassroots initiative. He reminisces about his early days, “I was begging everyone I knew” to support his initial pop-up dance party outside the Midnight Temple in Eastern Market. From borrowed sound equipment to a recent feature with over 2,000 attendees at the Michigan Science Center, Montante’s rise illustrates the power of community and collective energy.

Embracing Local Culture

At the heart of Montante’s events is a focus on collaboration and community support. He showcases local businesses and landmark venues, hosting shows at the Detroit Public Library, Belle Isle, and even Hot Sam’s Detroit, where he has fond memories of purchasing his wedding suit. This emphasis on local culture fosters an environment where attendees feel connected to the roots of Detroit’s artistic heritage.

Co-Creation with Fans

Montante’s innovative approach allows fans to shape their experience. From selecting dates and venues to choosing event themes and ticket prices (with options for free admission), he encourages active participation through his social media platforms. This democratic process not only builds community but creates memorable experiences; fans are even invited to document their attendance with handheld cameras that Montante later integrates into his promotional materials.

A New Kind of Nightlife

Eschewing the typical late-night party scene, Montante aims to create safe and inclusive environments where people can dance and connect without the pressure of alcohol or extended hours. “I give a lot of the power back to the people… It’s in the hands of random strangers,” he notes about his format.

The success of this model is palpable, evident in the joyful expressions of those at his shows. During one performance, an impromptu karaoke rendition of “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys united the crowd, showcasing music’s universal power to connect.

Building Personal Relationships

In an industry where artists often stand apart from their audience, Montante breaks the mold by placing himself at the center. “I purposely put my setup directly in the middle of everyone else,” he clarifies, highlighting his intention to foster togetherness rather than separateness. “There’s a need for connection that I feel like hasn’t been around the city for a long time.”

His shows are an embodiment of this ethos: intimate yet vibrant gatherings where attendees share both joy and personal stories. Montante’s deliberate positioning creates an atmosphere that feels more like a communal celebration than a mere performance; it’s about dancing through life together.

Community and Cultural Pride

Montante’s shows also reflect his deep connection to his roots. He proudly displays flags symbolizing his Filipino heritage and the Mexican culture prevalent in southwest Detroit during performances. This representation resonates widely, allowing diverse audiences to share in a collective experience that celebrates multifaceted identities.

The community response has been overwhelming. Attendees travel from various states to experience the energy and warmth of Montante’s shows. As Javier Alvarez, who journeyed from Taylor, Michigan, puts it: “The vibe is amazing. I feel happy. Man, I feel like I’m in heaven.”

An Artist with a Vision

Backstage and off the spotlight, Montante continues to develop his artistry. He currently has six unreleased records, waiting for the opportune moment to share them with the world. He emphasizes quality over speed in his career trajectory: “The point is to create a foundation so strong that you’ll have a career forever.”

With aspirations that extend beyond music, including dreams of opening his own coffee shop, Montante aims for impact and legacy. His vision is not for personal fame but for a mural depicting a small dot surrounded by countless others, symbolizing the far-reaching effects of his work on the community.

Mervin Montante, aka with love, harlōw, embodies the spirit of a new generation of artists—bold, community-focused, and ultimately redefining what it means to be a creator in today’s world.