[House] Hear The Story Of: CHKLZ

CHKLZ’s narrative continues to unfold as they aim to unite and excite music enthusiasts through a shared celebration of rhythm and community. Each performance is an homage to their origins and their muse, Chuckles, elevating their story above mere musical triumph to underscore the unifying force of their art.

Awarded Best Dance Artist of 2023 by Phoenix New Times, CHKLZ stands out not just for local recognition but for their substantial impact on national dance music charts. Their distinct fusion of electronic music with live instrumental elements has enthralled audiences worldwide, with tours reaching across the USA, Mexico, Canada, Australia, and Costa Rica. The duo manages their extensive touring and public engagements independently, without the aid of an agency, showcasing their adeptness in strategic planning and industry navigation.

The genesis of CHKLZ dates back to a memorable Fourth of July when DJ iLL Choppo and LeMarshawn Jean rescued a small white dog named Charlie, affectionately known as “Chuckles,” from beneath a truck in the heat of Phoenix. This dog did not merely inspire their name but also shaped their musical and communal approach. Chuckles’ resilience and appeal reflect CHKLZ’s commitment to fostering joyful and inclusive musical settings.

LeMarshawn Jean’s creative choice to style the duo’s name as CHKLZ marks a deliberate break from the norm, which then combines DJ iLL Choppo’s extensive drumming background with fresh electronic production techniques. This combination energizes their live shows, making them celebrated for both their vibrant energy and the real connection they forge with audiences.

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[Tech House] On Deck, skemaddox – IDEK (feat. Ally Rayne)

“IDEK” brings forth gorgeous house  vibes that instantly turns heads, intricately crafted by On Deck, skemaddox, and Ally Rayne. This track is built on a foundation of subtle yet powerful basslines, setting the stage for a deeply engaging listening experience. Ally Rayne’s vocals offer a seductive quality, leading into a drop that embraces raw, synth-driven soundscapes. The collaboration between these artists produces a sound that captures the unique energy of nightclub atmospheres and then some.

On Deck contributes his extensive experience in the music industry, including his roles at Night Moves Music and Brooklyn Fire, as well as his time as the host of Audio Foreplay on Insomniac Radio. His background, which spans A&R work for Brooklyn Fire and affiliations with major labels like Universal Music Group, Insomniac Records, and Ultra Records, adds a layer of depth and professionalism to “IDEK.”

Skemaddox, based in Los Angeles, has evolved from a well-known DJ in Hollywood’s elite venues to a respected producer within the electronic music arena. His contribution to “IDEK” showcases his skill in merging classic electronic components with his own unique flair, marking a significant step in his artistic journey.

The collaboration of On Deck and Skemaddox, alongside Ally Rayne’s vocal charm, results in “IDEK” – a track displays the talents of its creators but also pays tribute to the shared experiences found within the walls of nightclubs. This piece exemplifies how individual artistry can come together to reflect the vibrant spirit of club culture.

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[House] Rich Furniss, Terry Hunter, James Patterson – Release Yourself

Rich Furniss is truly making waves musically, and not just any kind—these are the kind that catch the attention of house listeners upon impact, whether it may be at home or in the club. Since his start, he’s been on a bit of a whirlwind adventure, weaving his early 2000s roots into something that’s catching the ears of listeners everywhere. With a cool million streams across various platforms, and a hefty slice of that pie (750,000 streams, to be exact) on Spotify, it’s clear he’s doing something right.

But Rich isn’t just about locking himself away in the studio. He’s been out there, lighting up dance floors from the buzzing streets of New York all the way down to the sunny vibes of Miami. Across his career, sharing stages with big names like Diplo and Rick Ross, and making appearances at festivals that draw crowds by the thousands, like SXSW and Governors Ball, he’s shown he’s got what it takes to hang with the best.

Aside from bringing his own style to the world, he’s also the guy behind the curtain, running the show at Sound Collective where he’s all about lifting up the next generation of artists.

Focusing on “Release Yourself,”  Rich has partnered up with James Patterson and the legendary Terry Hunter to create something that’s a bit of a nod to house music’s golden days while still pushing forward. It’s got everything: soulful vocals that stick with you, rhythms that pull you in, and melodies that lift you up. It’s like a musical time machine with its sights set on the future. This track marks a beautiful milestone for Rich, streamlining the purity of house music into one moving experience while colliding it with his own signature sound to help it stick. This many hustles on many fronts, but it all comes from a labor of love and this sensibility distinctly surrounds the fruits of his labor.

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[Tech House] Gjoka Drejaj – Where Did Ya Go

Gjoka Drejaj isn’t just another name on the lineup; he’s a story of ambition, growth, and the power of finding one’s voice. From his roots in the Bronx’s pulsating underground scene to becoming a seasoned DJ since 2009, Drejaj’s journey into music production in 2020 has been nothing short of transformative. With his debut EP, “Where Did Ya Go,” Drejaj invites us into a space where emotion meets sound, a display of his newfound sonic identity crafted in his recently upgraded studio.

“Where Did Ya Go” is an exploration of Drejaj’s inner landscape, brought to life with lush vocals that he couldn’t resist. This project showcases his ability to channel deep feelings into sound, a skill that has propelled him onto stages shared with heavyweights like DVBBS and Oscar G, and into venues like Pacha NYC and Quantum Brooklyn.

His accolades speak volumes: collaborating with Smith and Sorren on “Believe in the Music,” which climbed Beatport’s Tech House charts and featured on Apple Music’s New In Dance playlist. His single “Ensueno” further cemented his status, reaching impressive positions on Beatport’s Tech House Releases.

As Drejaj continues to make waves, “Where Did Ya Go” shows both how far he’s come as well as where he’s going – all signs are pointing to him headed toward greatness given the quality of the music that we have in front of us today.

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[Tech House] Bleu Clair – Underwater

Bleu Clair, a figure synonymous with innovation in the tech house genre, has experienced a meteoric rise in the electronic dance music scene. With a discography that boasts over 50 million Spotify streams and a monthly listenership nearing 450,000, his influence is both widespread and profound. Notably, his collaboration on “Have Me All” with Jelita achieved the #22 spot on the 1001Tracklist’s Top Producer list, this is just scratching the surface. His partnerships with industry titans like Ytram, Tchami, and AC Slater highlight his prominence within the community.

His performance history is equally impressive, having graced stages at premier festivals such as Tomorrowland 2023, EDC Las Vegas, and CRSSD Fest. Bleu Clair’s ability to win over audiences worldwide is one of many reasons why he is a leading figure in the tech house landscape.

2024 has seen Bleu Clair continuing his momentum with the release of “Shake What You Mama,” quickly followed by the compelling single “Underwater.” This track marks a departure towards a more elemental and fundamental production style. With its straightforward composition, “Underwater” allows its club-ready vocal sample to shine against a backdrop of entrancing basslines and exotic percussion. This latest addition shows off Bleu Clair’s knack for creating music that not only resonates with his audience but also enriches his already impressive catalogue. As Bleu Clair embarks on his 2024 tour with stops in Miami, Texas, and California, his journey remains a compelling narrative of relentless achievement and creative evolution.

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[House] Dunes of Dawn – Phonetics

In late January, Dunes of Dawn made a significant mark with their “Dimensions” release through IN ROTATION / Insomniac Records. Building on this momentum, the duo announces their next big step with the release of “Phonetics”, under Sorted Records, a sub-label of Nervous Records. This high-energy techno single underscores the duo’s knack for super creative productions that are both unpredictable and easy to return to.

Formed by Tanner and Yianni, Dunes of Dawn embodies a profound connection and shared passion for electronic music. Their distinctive approach to house and techno has not only defined their sound but also allowed them to align with influential figures in the scene, sharing stages with ANNA, Layton Giordani, Hot Since 82, Skream, and Hiroko Yamamura. Their evolving journey now includes partnerships with esteemed labels like Insomniac Records and Nervous Records.

“Phonetics” emerges as a perfect example of their artistic development, featuring meticulous percussion that invites listeners into a captivating narrative. The track seamlessly integrates a unique vocal element, infusing an Italian essence that elevates the overall experience. This release is a continuation and expansion of Dunes of Dawn’s musical evolution, promising more intriguing developments in their career.

As Dunes of Dawn continue to gain traction, with a growing Spotify listener base and notable performances across various venues, their upcoming projects remain highly anticipated. Their collaboration with prestigious labels hints at the promising trajectory of their career in electronic music.

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[House] Bleu Clair – Shake What Yo Mama

Bleu Clair, a prominent figure in the tech house music scene, capped off a bustling year in December, highlighted by his appearances at renowned events such as Parookaville Festival 2023 and Tomorrowland 2023. His consistent performance throughout the year, maintaining over 450,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and garnering millions of streams, underscores his unwavering commitment to his craft.

His recent track, “Shake What Yo Mama,” embodies the essence of his musical direction. The song skillfully blends exotic and primal influences with a classic house vocal sample, creating a harmonious and down-right beautiful listening experience. The track’s drop, with its powerful synths, leads listeners into an unexpectedly thrilling territory that’s easy to repeat again and again.

With more than 50 million Spotify streams and a substantial follower base, Bleu Clair’s influence in the electronic music industry is evident. His collaboration “Have Me All,” featuring Jelita, achieved the #22 spot on 1001Tracklist’s Top Producer list. He has also gained recognition from industry giants like Skrillex, DJ Snake, and Diplo.

Bleu Clair’s discography includes releases on prestigious labels like Musical Freedom, STMPD, Insomniac Records, Realm Records, and Terminal Underground. His collaborations with notable artists such as Ytram, Kyle Watson, Tchami, AC Slater, and Matroda highlight his significant contributions to the dance music scene.

This man continues to grow year after year, 2024 is looking no different – keep an eye on his and see what he does next.

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