In June 2023, the city of Chicago designated a historic landmark status to a brick factory building at 206 S. Jefferson, where the legendary nightclub that birthed house music was located in the late 1970s. This move by the city came after Preservation Chicago had identified the Warehouse as one of the city’s most endangered historical buildings. This recognition of the Warehouse’s significance in the development of house music gave hope to many who believe that the city should do more to celebrate this genre that originated in Chicago.
House music has deep roots in the city, with generations of Chicagoans contributing to its evolution and global popularity. However, many of these pioneers and trailblazers do not receive the recognition they deserve while they are still alive. The recent passing of Chuck Roberts, known for his influential work on the 1987 Rhythm Controll single “My House,” highlighted the lack of acknowledgment for these house music legends.
To address this issue and support local house artists, producer Vince Lawrence launched House Music 40, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the genre’s history and providing financial assistance to artists in need. The organization’s name pays tribute to the 40 years since the release of the first original house record, “On and On” by Jesse Saunders and Vince Lawrence. These initiatives demonstrate the grassroots efforts within the house music community to support its members and preserve its heritage.
In a collaborative effort to celebrate Chicago house music culture, Ten City, a veteran group active since 1987, will be performing with a 14-piece band at Metro. This unique performance aims to showcase the band’s timeless hits with a live orchestra, enhancing the luxurious sound and soulful vocals of Byron Stingily. The choice of Metro as the venue holds significance, as the owner Joe Shanahan has a longstanding history with house music, drawing inspiration from iconic Chicago venues like the Warehouse and La Mere Vipere.
The concert, titled “Ten City and Friends,” will also feature performances by White Knight, Curtis McClain, Harry Dennis, and the Good Girls. The lineup promises a night filled with nostalgia, energy, and celebration of the rich legacy of house music in Chicago. The event serves as a reminder of the community’s resilience and dedication to honoring its roots in the city’s musical history.
As we look forward to more events and initiatives that celebrate Chicago’s vibrant house music culture, it is essential to recognize the contributions of those who have shaped this genre and continue to keep its spirit alive. Through collaborative efforts and support for local artists, the legacy of house music in Chicago will continue to thrive for years to come.
