Q: Give us some background info as to who is DJ Mike Chi.
Well to start from the beginning of it all, I am now 26 years old born and raised on the South Side of Chicago. I fell in love with music when I was a small child.My father feels music the way I feel music. Music just takes over my soul. I’ve noticed that I wanted to be in the industry when I was in my second year of High school. So when I got to college, I majored in radio broadcasting and learned the history/tech. of the DJ. But being from Chicago, we have little resources to contact locally so I made that my job to be the DJ and Promoter of Chicago Artists. Now I produce music, mixtapes, videos, songs, and a radio show just to help other get seen and heard. I’m proud to say “I’m DJ Mike CHI”
Q: What’s the music scene like where you are from?
As of all of Chicago, the scene is very broad. There are all types of music and styles. I’ll say Chicago is one of the most talented and versatile cities. There are artists everywhere you go in this city. It’s a great vibe, I love it.
Q: Who is your target market?
My target market is from 16 years old to 30 years old. I try to motivate others to pursue their careers. I believe those are the years it takes to reach your career goal.
Q: What single or project are you currently pushing?
I’m currently pushing a song I produced called ‘Last Night’ with one of the hottest producers in the Chi, D. Jbari and the Artists- Weasel Sims and Vic Spencer- 2 of the most creative artists I know.
Q: What is the philosophy by which you live by?
“Make it happen” If you want it you can get it. Nothing can keep you away from achieving.
Q: Which artists or DJ’s have inspired you?
While growing up I’ve listened to the radio a lot. DJ Phantom and DJ Pharris inspired me to take control of music.
Q: Tell me about your radio show.
My radio show is focus on up and coming rising businesses. I interview music artists, designers, CEO’s…etc. all coming out of Chicago. You can also catch my live mixes of independent artists. CHI Radio on Spreaker.com
Q: What is your opinion of the current state of the music industry?
I think music is reviving now. There was a point where it was all focused on material and not things that matter personally. Music is all for clubs now. Maybe it’s just me maturing and I don’t understand where the young artists are coming from. I don’t know..lol , but I respect them all. But I believe Labels are going for what’s trending and it’s up to independent artists to make a difference. (back in the day everybody was independent, remember?)
Q: If you can change one thing about the music industry what would it be and why?
Be original. Allow artists to be able to express themselves. The industry will make money regardless. As you have noticed the more you push a record to the right audience, we should be fine.
Q: Are there any Singers or Rappers that you would like to collaborate with in the future?
Yes Elle Varner, she’s #1 on my list. And Lupe Fiasco.
Q: What are some major misconceptions that you think people have of you?
Not sure, I don’t worry about it. i try to keep things simple and positive.
Q: What’s the concept behind your mixtapes?
I try to create a different sound by using artists and styles that you would never imagine on a song together. My songs are all collaborations.
Q: What is your website?
www.soundcloud.com/djmike-chi and find me on www.spreaker.com . I’m on twitter @DJMIKECHI
Q: Any final words for the people?
There’s much more to Chicago that’s on the news and radio. Follow me and find out.
Thank you
Check out the new music video called Last Night.