In memoriam: DJ Kris Kono

Beloved Boston DJ Kris Kono passed away on Monday, May 8, at age 46 after battling cancer.

The Connecticut native began spinning records in the early '80s, inspired by DJs she saw in her father's nightclub, Lorien. "I remember standing at the edge of the dance floor completely fascinated by the DJ seamlessly blending two songs together," Kono told LesbianNightLife.com. "I said to myself, 'I must learn how to do that.'"

In the three decades since, Kono spun for crowds both intimate and large, from South Beach to Atlanta, Rehoboth Beach to Provincetown, Boston to New York City to Montreal. "I enjoy playing in nightclubs but prefer outdoor block and boat parties as well as Pride festivals," Kono told LesbianNightLife.com. "My first love is soulful, gospel-infused vocal house. I am drawn to the sounds of flutes, piano, guitar, and live percussion. ...I am happy to play for the people on my dance floor. As long as the music is uplifting with empowering lyrics, I'll play it."

Kono made her mark in the male-dominated music entertainment industry with a distinct blend of genres focusing on positive sounds and messages. Resident DJ at Dyke Night, Kono reported on their website, "Who wouldn't love watching the energy of the crowd at peak hour? To look down and see 1,000 women dancing, smiling, and having fun makes my night."

Kono also worked as a clinical supervisor/physical therapist at the New England Baptist Hospital. She is survived by her partner.