As DJ Roc, Chicago producer Clarence Johnson helped mold footwork and provided the support it needed to become an international underground phenomenon. He started making juke tracks in the early 2000s, but just a few years later he adopted the faster, battle-ready footwork sound. Johnson strengthened the footwork scene in 2005 by cofounding production collective […]
Tag: DJ Roc
Photos from DJ Clent’s Beatdown House Litnic
Some of the biggest names in ghetto house, juke, and footwork played for free at a relaxed party and cookout in Dolton Park.
DJ Clent’s Beatdown 22nd anniversary Litnic books the best in ghetto house, juke, and footwork
Our culture generally doesn’t consider 22nd anniversaries especially momentous, but I’ll take any excuse to see some of the most important figures in footwork, juke, and ghetto-house history—and that’s exactly who DJ Clent has brought together for this year’s Litnic, a daylong picnic that celebrates the 22nd anniversary of his label and collective, Beatdown House. […]
Daredevil producer Jlin survives her own trial by fire
Indiana-based beat wizard Jlin returns to the stage for Pitchfork Midwinter after courting burnout to finish her second album and score an avant-garde dance performance.
Impulsive Hearts hurry up summer with their debut full-length
Impulsive Hearts hurry up summer with their debut full-length, Juke Underground celebrates a huge new compilation, and more.
Best honorary member of Chicago’s footwork scene with a day job at a steel mill in Gary
Jlin Its Chicago roots notwithstanding, footwork is a global phenomenon now, with vital communities popping up as far afield as Japan and Poland. So it was no leap at all for this adventurous, fast-paced dance music to reach Gary, Indiana, home to footwork producer Jlin, aka Jerilynn Patton. Her steel-mill job keeps her grounded in […]