KDL Vibes Curator Spotlight: Della Marie Levi

Did you know your library has its very own music collection? 🎶 It’s called KDL Vibes, and it features commercial-free tracks licensed directly from artists right here in West Michigan. Even better, the music is hand-picked by a group of community curators and library staff who love discovering fresh sounds.  

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be spotlighting some of these curators—the folks who listen through submissions and help shape each year’s collection. Meet Della Marie, owner of Della Soul Records and a longtime supporter of West Michigan’s music community. As a record store owner, educator and old-school hip-hop connoisseur, she brings her passion for music and culture to every corner of the local scene. 

Tell us a little about yourself – who you are, what you do and your connection to West Michigan music. 

My name is Della Marie Levi, and I am the owner of Della Soul Records, a quaint record store in Grand Rapids. Additionally, I am a vinyl record enthusiast and the soul behind DJ Della Soul.  DJing is one of my favorite pastimes, and I specialize in Old School Hip Hop and R & B, Soul, Jazz, Motown, Urban Adult Contemporary and other music in those veins. 

You can bring only three physical albums with you on a long trip — no internet, no streaming. Which ones do you choose, and why? 

If I could only bring three physical albums on a trip, they would be Rapture by Anita Baker, The Low End Theory by A Tribe Called Quest, and Marvin Gaye Collected by Marvin Gaye.    

What’s one of your favorite local music memories? 

One of my favorite music memories was a visit to my store by VP Kamala Harris. We discussed her love of music, especially Miles Davis and George Clinton.  

What do you love about West Michigan music?  

West Michigan music is so rich and diverse and there are so many talented creatives in this city.