Tame Impala image via The Modular Agency, Hey Champ image via Hey Champ, Second City Rhythm image via Second City Rhythm, Midnight Magic image via Girlie Action, by Katherine Finkelstein.
What do you love most about being a DJ in Chicago?
"Being a DJ for a living anywhere is a blessing. I love being a DJ in Chicago because I can go out every night of the week and hear something completely different. I feel like there is a pretty closely knit DJ community here too. As much as they call Chicago "Haterville," I feel like the majority of the DJs working in this city are friendly and supportive."
What's your dream DJ gig?
"I feel like a few of my dream gigs have already happened. I've had the chance to play Lollapalooza twice and have opened for Chromeo at the Congress — things of that nature, where you have a few thousand people all dancing and feeding off the energy you are giving them as a DJ, are amazing. I'd love to play in front of even more people, but I think I'm going to have to make a few hits first."
What is the most annoying thing someone can say to a DJ?
"There are two things that drive me crazy as a DJ. The number one, most offensive thing people say is, "Can you play something I can dance to?" Nine times out of ten, you are in the middle of playing disco or house music... a.k.a. dance music. The other thing people ask is "Can I see what you have" on my laptop. The answer is no. You are either drunk, crazy, or both."
What live shows are you looking forward to seeing in Chicago this fall?
"Friendly Fires and my boys in Only Children are playing at the Metro on October 22. Should be a real dance party in there. I'm also looking forward to seeing M83 at Lincoln Hall on November 17. That guy just makes the most huge, beautiful music. It'll be great to see him in a smaller space like that."
What are three albums every girl should have at home?
"This is a hilarious question. Certainly Rumors by Fleetwood Mac stands out to me as a must-have. It has sold tens of millions of copies so I'm hoping they all have it already. Bodily Functions by Herbert is another must-have in my book. Matthew Herbert is some kind of electronic music mad scientist who recorded the sounds of a human body (hair, skin, internal organs) and made one of the sexiest albums I've ever heard. Last, but certainly not least, Prince's Purple Rain. The greatest soundtrack to the greatest movie of all time!"
"I Got The Vibe" [MP3]
8. Tame Impala - Why Won't You Make Up Your Mind
Buy the album here.
Buy the album here.
12. Hey Champ - Anything At All
Buy the album here.
"Anything at All" [MP3]