This Week In Chicago Music: Kendrick Lamar Guests On BJ The Chicago Kid's Album
By Justin Freeman in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 19, 2016 10:34PM
It’s been another busy week for Chicago music. Let’s talk about some of the highlights.
New Chicago Soul Album Features Kendrick Lamar
Local soul singer, BJ the Chicago Kid, has been on our radars for awhile now. He's released a series of well-regarded mixtapes, and collaborated with everyone from Dr. Dre to Freddie Gibbs. His debut In My Mind comes out today on Motown, and finds the artist further exploring his roots of gospel and jazz. The LP features a number of guests including Kendrick Lamar, Big K.R.I.T., and Chance the Rapper. (Today has been a good day for BJ: Pitchfork also announced this morning that he's joining the line-up for this year's Pitchfork Music Festival.
Mavis Staples, shown at the 2013 A.V. Fest/Hideout Block Party. (Photo credit: Chuck Sudo/Chicagoist)
Bon Iver Pens New Mavis Staples Song
Mavis Staples’ new album, Livin' On A High Note, comes out today and features music written for her by Nick Cave, Neko Case, Aloe Blacc and an assortment of other artists. Lead single, “Dedicated” was written for Staples by Justin Vernon of Bon Iver fame. Staples is playing two shows at Thalia Hall next month (March 19 and 20) to celebrate the new album. Check out “Dedicated” below.
Up-And-Coming Rapper Has A Clear Vision Of Success
Chicago’s rap scene is headed by the likes of Kanye West and Chance the Rapper, but right beneath the star-studded surface are a bunch of performers ready to take the crown. Chris Crack is one of those artists. Crack has been around for a few years and built a name for himself with impressive mixtapes and collaborations. His latest, a single called “20/20 (No Glasses),” finds him rapping at hyperspeed over a sleek kinetic beat by Tree. Check it out below.
Marilyn Manson Will Headline New Metal Festival
Taking inspiration from legacy summer festivals such as Warped Tour and Ozzfest, the newly launched Chicago Open Air wants to fulfill all your metal desires this summer—the same weekend as Pitchfork. For what it is, the lineup is really solid with Manson, Chevelle, Slipknot, Deafheaven and a bunch of others all set to perform. Our main criticism is that it’s way out in suburban Bridgeview. We’re not opposed to seeing Marilyn Manson, we just wish he’d play Riot Fest within the city limits instead. Check out Chevelle’s “Letter From a Thief” below.
image via press release
South Loop Music Venue The Shrine Is Closing
After a seven-year run, The Shrine is closing its doors at the end of February. They sent out an email earlier this week stating that a developer has purchased the building where the club is located, and has plans to demolish it and build a hotel in its place. The Shrine ends on a high note with a performance by Busta Rhymes on February 28. Check out the video for Busta Rhymes' classic "Put Your Hand Where My Eyes Can See" below.