Standouts - "means" Glassic Feat. Will is Chillin
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In the description for his new project 'Safe Travels' Chicago producer Glassic states "there's a lot of talent in local and underground musicians that doesn't get enough appreciation". This idea is perfectly represented in album standout cut "means" featuring local staple Will is Chillin. The Stankface records MC laces a fantastic double time flow that sits in the pocket perfectly. The kick pattern has an undeniable swing to it and the fast paced hi hat accompanies Will as he breezes through rhythms.
Whether or not Glassic or Will is Chillin are getting attention on a national level, it is clear that they are producing music at a professional level. It's only a matter of time before the music hits a wider audience. Until then Midwesterners can appreciate the hidden jewels that they have.
Joseph Chilliams wins with Henry Church
Pivot Gang's Joseph Chilliams released his debut mixtape, Henry Church, about a week ago and then celebrated with a sold out show at Schubas. The project, which consists of 13 songs and features homies such as MfnMelo, Saba, NoName, and others, is cohesive project chock full of pop-culture references, regular-guy observations, and a fun energy throughout. That's not to say that Henry Church is devoid of seriousness or melancholy. Many of Joseph's observations are told with an air of concern and a subdued tone, especially when remembering John Walt, who was tragically killed last spring. From the cover art, to the videos, to the music, it is clear that Chilliams is serious in not taking himself too seriously. And he's winning. Enjoy the project via Soundcloud below.
Vic Mensa's debut album The Autobiography available for Pre Order
Vic Mensa announced the release date and title of his debut album, The Autobiography. Releasing on July 28, Mensa’s highly anticipated debut will give the Chicago rapper his first major introduction into the music world. Pre Order The Autobiography here on Apple Music.
From his latest projects like the There’s A lot Going On EP. To his most recent work in what he calls a capsule of music in The Manuscript, this is a whole new Mensa.
Mensa has matured in front of our eyes and through his music over the years. Tacking heavy issues from the Laquan McDonald shooting, Flint water crisis, self-harm and drug addiction Mensa has stated The Autobiography will be his most personal yet.
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/885298384080261120
Mensa took to Twitter to announce The Autobiography to fans. Using screenshots of different locations. Mensa had fans post a photo of themselves for a chance to listen to his album.
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/884811399179886592
Hearing Mensa’s dark and serious tone packed with gut punching lyrics in There’s A lot Going On and The Manuscript, July 28 can’t come soon enough.
If you haven’t already check out Mensa’s recent release of the music video for “OMG”.“OMG” was a Tidal exclusive, now streaming everywhere you can check out Mensa’s release from The Manuscript.
The Pharrell produced track features Pusha T and has guest appearances from Pusha T, Ethan Cutkosky, Joey Purp and Towkio.
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Check out these 5 Chicago artists at Lollapalooza. Whitney, Noname, Kweku Collins, The O'My's and Chance The Rapper
Let’s dive into the incredible lineup at this year’s Lollapalooza. Chicago artists came to represent at one of the largest music festivals in the world. The talent to tough but their Chicago breed artist standout in a big way. Below let’s visit five artists that call Chicago their home that you absolutely can’t miss at this year’s Lollapalooza!
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Whitney
Indie-rock band Whitney will represent the Chicago indie scene well. The young band will have the perfect match of blended tunes and heart wrenching lyrics. Their debut album Light Upon the Lake is one of the best pieces of work coming out from Chicago in the past few years. Seeing them rock the stage at Lollapalooza will be a great experience for the young band. It definitely won’t be the last time on the Lollapalooza stage.
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Noname
After an incredible year of appearances at Saturday Night Live, Bronzeville native Noname will be making her Lollapalooza debut. The spoken word artist made the past year her own with her soulful and honest approach to storytelling that we hear in her latest protect, Telefone.
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Kweku Collins
Closed Sessions rapper Kweku Collins will bring his poetry and melodic rap sound to life at Lollapalooza. Making his Lollapalooza debut, the Evanston (close enough) native will represent the young label well. He will be rubbing shoulders with some heavyweight rapper while making a bold appearance at Lollapalooza in his own right.
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The O’ My’s
Rock meets soul back again when the O’ My’s return at Lollapalooza. Showing early support in their career to the likes of Chance The Rapper, the O’ My’s will receive a long overdue warm welcome. Seeing Maceo Haymes taking the stage with Nick Hennessey, Boyang Matsapola, Baron Golden, Erick Mateo will bring the longtime Chicago favorites to new heights. If you haven’t already do yourself a favor and check out their EP, Keeping The Faith.
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Chance The Rapper
This one goes without saying. If you’re from Chicago, you have to come through and support Chicago’s biggest name in the business. Chance The Rapper just a few short years ago performed at the smaller BMI stage. This year, Chance The Rapper will headline August 5 on the main stage expecting his biggest crowd to date.
After a number of incredible accolades for the young 24-year-old artist, Chance The Rapper will bring it all home at Lollapalooza. After his three well deserved Grammy wins, donating over 1 million dollars to the Chicago Public School District and widely praised third released mixtape Coloring Book, Chance’s set will be one to remember for years to come.
4-Day Passes and single day passes are currently sold-out, VIP passes are now at Lollapalooza.com.
Freddie Gibbs You Only Live 2wice concert at the Metro Chicago
Indiana rapper Freddie Gibbs had his share of ups and downs throughout his life, yet he shakes it off like it's nothing. When Gibbs took the stage the crowd went absolutely crazy. Welcoming him home with a lot of love is what fueled Gangsta Gibbs. He seemed to be in good spirits during his show at the Metro Thursday night and clearly enjoying being back in the rap game. Gibbs performed cuts from his latest album, You Only Live 2wice, including "20 Karat Jesus." He also blazed through hits from his previous records ESGN and Shadow of a Doubt. Relive the night with our photo gallery below.
Words by Ashley Perez
Freddie Gibbs Photos by: Kevin Baker
Freddie Gibbs Video shot by: Kevin Baker. Chopped by Lateef Idris
Such a dope show @FreddieGibbs You Only Live 2wice tour. Get yall tickets! 🎥 #imkevinbaker @_chicagomusic_ #YOL2 #ESGN #KaneSeason #chicago pic.twitter.com/JmAao3SHXr
— ImKevinBaker.com (@imkevinbaker) July 7, 2017
Lollapalooza 2017 Aftershows listed here with over 55 performances
Want to see even more from your favorite artists at the fest? Keep the party going at one of our Official 2017 Lollapalooza Aftershows with more than 55 performances featuring over 110 artists. From Metro to House of Blues, these legendary rooms will host the ultimate Lolla after-parties from Tuesday, August 1st through Sunday, August 6th. This list will be updated as more information is released. Who is ready for another year at Lollapalooza? Well rock your Chicago Music because it is Festival Season!
WEDNESDAY 8/2
- Kaytranada - Concord Music Hall - Tickets available HERE
THURSDAY 8/3
- Porter Robinson - the MID - Tickets available HERE
- Little Dragon - Concord Music Hall - Tickets available HERE
- Jai Wolf & Gryffin - Logan Square Auditorium - Tickets available HERE
- Mac DeMarco - Concord Music Hall - Tickets available HERE
- Slushii - Logan Square Auditorium - Tickets available HERE
- Gramatik - the MID - Tickets available HERE
SATURDAY 8/5
- Alison Wonderland w/ Ephwurd - the MID - Tickets available HERE
- NGHTMRE - Logan Square Auditorium - Tickets available HERE
- G Jones & EPROM - Chop Shop - Tickets available HERE
- Zane Lowe Presents: Towkio, Jidenna and Aminé - Concord Music Hall - Tickets available HERE
SUNDAY 8/6
Lollapalooza 2017 Aftershows
Photos: House of Vans opens Chicago location
Vans, a brand that prides itself in music, and street culture, opened it’s door for it’s House of Vans Chicago.
The opening night featured performances from Future Islands, Digable Planets, and Chicago’s own rising star, Noname.
House of Vans Chicago also showcased photography exhibits from photographers Jonathan Mehring, Ryan Kobane, and Ashley Osborn.
Opening night featured an immerse theme of Vans signature skating and alternative rock photography work from past Vans events. The intimacy between guests was well received from the huge warehouse store turned indoor skating park, store, and music venue.
Chicago’s Noname opened the night with a headlining caliber performance. The perfect setting setter, Noname’s “Telefone” had the House of Vans guests uplifted. The Chicago hip-hop rapper and poet, could have performed the whole night without any objection. Nomane kicking off her Telefone Tour, already sold out every single stop across the U.S.
Alternative hip-hop trio Digable Planets, brought their bold Brooklyn flow to Chicago’s west side. The trip has been around for some time, the trio put no time to waste put on a rhythmic race of funky beats and spell bounding lyrics. True experts Digable Planets, made sure the House Of Vans Chicago got their dose of a old school hip-hop. Preforming classics like “Where I’m From” and “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat) House of Vans Chicago were given a throwback of 90’s hip-hop treat.
House of Vans Chicago ended the night with Baltimore band Future Islands. A true showman, front man Samuel T. Herring had the crowd in a frenzy with his intense performance.
Future Islands previewed tracks from their new album “The Far Field”, the heavy spirt or prowling and growling of Herring made Future Islands performance not one to miss.
House of Vans Chicago has stated they will be free and open to the public.
Noname | Digable Planets | Future Island
Photos: Léon makes impressive Chicago debut
Swedish singer Léon made her Chicago debut selling out Lakeview’s Schuba’s Tavern on her 20 city stop tour.
On her first North American Tour, with special guest Jacob Banks, Léon shined in Chicago with a very impressive city debut.