Pro-Deuce-Sir

 

Producers (Pro-deuce-sirs) are the foundation of music as we know it, and behind every artist and label is a producer taking the music from its raw form into a work of art. Below is a list of the most notable producers in my opinion in order of their influence to the genre. 

Notable Chicago Music Producers

1. Kanye West

Undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in modern music production, Kanye West made his name not just as a rapper but as a producer. Hailing from the South Side of Chicago, Kanye's early work with artists like Jay-Z (on the iconic album The Blueprint) helped reshape hip-hop production, using soulful samples and intricate layering to craft a more emotionally resonant sound. His production style evolved with albums like 808s & Heartbreak and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, where he incorporated experimental techniques that blurred the lines between rap, rock, electronic music, and pop. Kanye’s innovative approach to music production is a key reason why Chicago is often seen as one of the most forward-thinking cities in music.

2. No I.D.

Another Chicago legend, No I.D. (Derrick "No I.D." Coleman), is renowned for his contributions to both the hip-hop and R&B genres. Known as one of Jay-Z’s key collaborators, No I.D. has a reputation for soulful, sample-driven production. His work with Common on albums like Be is often cited as some of the finest production in contemporary hip-hop. No I.D. is also credited with helping to nurture the early career of Kanye West, who once referred to him as his "mentor." In addition to his work with Kanye, No I.D. has produced for artists like Nas, Big Sean, and J. Cole, shaping some of the most respected rap albums of the past two decades.

3. Smino & Monte Booker

One of the most exciting things happening in Chicago’s music scene today is the rise of artists like Smino, whose collaborations with producer Monte Booker are pushing the boundaries of alternative R&B and hip-hop. Together, they blend soulful melodies with experimental beats that incorporate jazz, funk, and electronic influences. Booker’s production style is quirky yet smooth, using off-kilter rhythms, lush synths, and vibrant basslines to create a distinctive sound that has earned both Smino and Booker a loyal following.

4. Mick Jenkins & OnGaud

Mick Jenkins, a rapper and lyricist from the South Side of Chicago, has become known for his thought-provoking lyricism and experimental production. OnGaud (aka Elijah “OnGaud” Williams) has played a significant role in shaping the sound of Jenkins' projects, combining atmospheric, jazz-inflected beats with minimalistic percussion to create a feeling of space and introspection. Their collaborations, such as The Healing Component and Pieces of a Man, showcase how production can elevate the deeper philosophical themes explored in the lyrics.

5. Chance the Rapper & The Social Experiment

Chance the Rapper, one of Chicago's brightest stars in recent years, has helped to redefine what it means to be an independent artist in the modern music industry. His production collective, The Social Experiment, features producers like Nico Segal (formerly Donnie Trumpet) and Peter Cottontale. Their work blends gospel, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop in creative and unconventional ways, evident on albums like Acid Rap and Coloring Book. These projects showcase Chance’s ability to work within a wide range of genres while maintaining a fresh and unique sound that resonates with listeners worldwide.

6. Ric Wilson & Elijah*

Ric Wilson is a rising star in Chicago’s indie-rap scene, and much of his recent success can be attributed to his collaborations with Elijah, a producer with a unique touch. Elijah's beats combine elements of electronic, funk, and hip-hop, creating a vibrant and eclectic soundscape for Wilson’s socially conscious lyrics. Their work together, including the album They Call Me Ric, is a testament to the growing wave of Chicago artists who are blending genres to create something wholly original.

7. DJ Slugo & the Evolution of Chicago Footwork

Chicago is also known for its underground music scenes, with genres like footwork emerging from the city's South and West Sides. DJ Slugo, a key figure in the footwork movement, has produced some of the genre's most influential tracks. Footwork is a fast-paced, highly rhythmic style of electronic dance music that has garnered international acclaim. Producers like DJ Rashad and DJ Spinn, who emerged from the same scene, helped to define the genre, using intricate drum patterns and chopped-up vocal samples to create a frenetic yet hypnotic sound that has caught the attention of both underground and mainstream audiences.

How Chicago's Music Producers are Shaping the Future

Chicago’s music producers are not only preserving the city's rich musical heritage, but they are also innovating and expanding the boundaries of what music can be. Whether it’s through genre fusion, embracing technology, or creating sounds that capture the city’s unique cultural energy, Chicago's producers are making waves in the global music scene.

Today, the music landscape in Chicago is as diverse as ever, with hip-hop, R&B, house, electronic music, and experimental genres all finding a place in the city's expansive musical ecosystem. From the world-shaping sounds of Kanye West and No I.D. to the next generation of boundary-pushing producers like Monte Booker and OnGaud, Chicago continues to be a hub for innovation.

As the city continues to evolve, Chicago’s music producers will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of shaping the sound of tomorrow, blending history with fresh ideas and pushing the limits of what music can achieve. Whether you’re a music lover, an aspiring producer, or simply someone who appreciates creativity, keeping an ear on the Windy City is sure to yield some of the most exciting and groundbreaking sounds of the future.

Fits and Hits

 The Influence of Streetwear on the Chicago Music Scene

Chicago’s music scene and streetwear culture have had a mutually influential relationship, with each shaping and elevating the other over the years. The city has long been a fashion and musical trendsetter, with streetwear emerging as an essential part of hip-hop culture. From local hip-hop artists adopting iconic streetwear brands to exclusive collaborations and unique styles that pay homage to Chicago’s neighborhoods, streetwear has become woven into the fabric of the city's music scene.

Streetwear: A Visual Language of Self-Expression

Streetwear has always been about more than just clothing. In Chicago, it’s a way for artists and fans to express their identity, pay homage to their roots, and share a sense of community. Influential brands like Leaders 1354, RSVP Gallery, and Joe Freshgoods’ Don’t Be Mad have become symbols of Chicago's unique streetwear scene, with designs that often feature city landmarks, slang, or symbols representing the city’s neighborhoods. This visual language resonates deeply with the local hip-hop community, who often embrace streetwear to reflect their personal style and the pride they feel for their city.

Early 2000s to Today: Hip-Hop and Streetwear in Sync

The synergy between Chicago hip-hop and streetwear took off in the early 2000s, with artists like Kanye West bringing attention to the city’s fashion scene. Kanye’s unique style, blending high-end with street-inspired elements, brought a wave of creativity to Chicago streetwear. His success as a designer and influence on fashion sparked a movement in which local artists began experimenting with fashion as an extension of their artistry.

As the years progressed, the rise of drill music in the 2010s introduced a new wave of streetwear influence. Artists like Chief Keef, Lil Durk, and G Herbo became known for their distinct, casual yet bold streetwear style, often featuring high-end designer brands mixed with local streetwear. Their fashion choices became integral to the drill aesthetic, influencing fans and artists worldwide who wanted to adopt “the Chicago look.” Hoodies, distressed jeans, designer belts, and bold graphics became hallmarks of drill fashion, shaping streetwear in a way that extended well beyond the city.

Streetwear as a Cultural Marker in Music

Chicago’s hip-hop artists have used streetwear to communicate their message and connect with fans. The outfits worn by artists are often a direct reflection of their music’s mood and themes, whether that’s the resilience, defiance, or pride embedded in drill or the innovative, genre-blending vibes of artists like Chance the Rapper and Saba. Their unique styles—Chance’s iconic “3” hats, Saba’s effortlessly cool looks—have influenced fans and designers alike, helping to define what Chicago streetwear means today.

Collaborations and Community: Chicago Brands and Musicians

Chicago-based brands frequently collaborate with local musicians to create limited-edition collections that reflect the culture of both the brand and the artist. Joe Freshgoods has collaborated with Chance the Rapper and other artists, creating pieces that celebrate Chicago’s musical and streetwear scenes. Similarly, Kanye West’s collaborations with brands like Adidas have amplified Chicago’s impact on global fashion, bringing streetwear that originated in the city to a worldwide audience.

These collaborations have helped foster a sense of community, creating a shared experience for fans who support both the music and the fashion of the city. Streetwear pop-up shops, art shows, and music events give artists, designers, and fans the chance to connect, reinforcing Chicago’s unique cultural identity.

The Future of Chicago’s Streetwear and Music Connection

The relationship between streetwear and Chicago’s music scene continues to evolve, with each new generation of artists and designers bringing their own ideas and influences to the table. As Chicago’s music scene remains vibrant and its streetwear culture grows, the synergy between them is sure to keep evolving, creating new forms of expression for both fashion and music.

Ultimately, Chicago’s hip-hop scene and streetwear culture share the same DNA—they’re expressions of individuality, resilience, and pride. Together, they continue to shape the city’s identity, pushing boundaries and influencing fans across the world. The Influence of Streetwear on the Chicago Music Scene

Chicago’s music scene and streetwear culture have had a mutually influential relationship, with each shaping and elevating the other over the years. The city has long been a fashion and musical trendsetter, with streetwear emerging as an essential part of hip-hop culture. From local hip-hop artists adopting iconic streetwear brands to exclusive collaborations and unique styles that pay homage to Chicago’s neighborhoods, streetwear has become woven into the fabric of the city's music scene.

Streetwear: A Visual Language of Self-Expression

Streetwear has always been about more than just clothing. In Chicago, it’s a way for artists and fans to express their identity, pay homage to their roots, and share a sense of community. Influential brands like Leaders 1354, RSVP Gallery, and Joe Freshgoods’ Don’t Be Mad have become symbols of Chicago's unique streetwear scene, with designs that often feature city landmarks, slang, or symbols representing the city’s neighborhoods. This visual language resonates deeply with the local hip-hop community, who often embrace streetwear to reflect their personal style and the pride they feel for their city.

Early 2000s to Today: Hip-Hop and Streetwear in Sync

The synergy between Chicago hip-hop and streetwear took off in the early 2000s, with artists like Kanye West bringing attention to the city’s fashion scene. Kanye’s unique style, blending high-end with street-inspired elements, brought a wave of creativity to Chicago streetwear. His success as a designer and influence on fashion sparked a movement in which local artists began experimenting with fashion as an extension of their artistry.

As the years progressed, the rise of drill music in the 2010s introduced a new wave of streetwear influence. Artists like Chief Keef, Lil Durk, and G Herbo became known for their distinct, casual yet bold streetwear style, often featuring high-end designer brands mixed with local streetwear. Their fashion choices became integral to the drill aesthetic, influencing fans and artists worldwide who wanted to adopt “the Chicago look.” Hoodies, distressed jeans, designer belts, and bold graphics became hallmarks of drill fashion, shaping streetwear in a way that extended well beyond the city.

Streetwear as a Cultural Marker in Music

Chicago’s hip-hop artists have used streetwear to communicate their message and connect with fans. The outfits worn by artists are often a direct reflection of their music’s mood and themes, whether that’s the resilience, defiance, or pride embedded in drill or the innovative, genre-blending vibes of artists like Chance the Rapper and Saba. Their unique styles—Chance’s iconic “3” hats, Saba’s effortlessly cool looks—have influenced fans and designers alike, helping to define what Chicago streetwear means today.

Collaborations and Community: Chicago Brands and Musicians

Chicago-based brands frequently collaborate with local musicians to create limited-edition collections that reflect the culture of both the brand and the artist. Joe Freshgoods has collaborated with Chance the Rapper and other artists, creating pieces that celebrate Chicago’s musical and streetwear scenes. Similarly, Kanye West’s collaborations with brands like Adidas have amplified Chicago’s impact on global fashion, bringing streetwear that originated in the city to a worldwide audience.

These collaborations have helped foster a sense of community, creating a shared experience for fans who support both the music and the fashion of the city. Streetwear pop-up shops, art shows, and music events give artists, designers, and fans the chance to connect, reinforcing Chicago’s unique cultural identity.

The Future of Chicago’s Streetwear and Music Connection

The relationship between streetwear and Chicago’s music scene continues to evolve, with each new generation of artists and designers bringing their own ideas and influences to the table. As Chicago’s music scene remains vibrant and its streetwear culture grows, the synergy between them is sure to keep evolving, creating new forms of expression for both fashion and music.

Ultimately, Chicago’s hip-hop scene and streetwear culture share the same DNA—they’re expressions of individuality, resilience, and pride. Together, they continue to shape the city’s identity, pushing boundaries and influencing fans across the world.