The Chosen Few DJ's Picnic, a pulsating celebration of music and community, stands tall as one of the most electrifying events in the vibrant tapestry of Chicago's music scene. Every year, thousands of passionate music lovers, dance enthusiasts, and culture seekers flock to this illustrious gathering, eagerly anticipating an experience that transcends boundaries and ignites the soul. With its roots tracing back to the early days of house music, the Chosen Few DJ's Picnic has blossomed into an iconic institution, a joyous convergence of legendary DJs, euphoric beats, and an atmosphere charged with love and unity.
Join us on a journey through this captivating event, where rhythm becomes the heartbeat of Chicago and melodies paint the sky with vibrant hues.
ORIGINS OF THE CHOSEN FEW PICNIC
The Music-Powered Picnic is an annual house music experience held in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1990 by a group of talented friends known as the Chosen Few DJs, who wanted to celebrate their love for house music and create a gathering for their friends and fellow music enthusiasts. The event started as a small backyard gathering and has since grown into one of the largest and most influential house music events in the world, attracting over 40,000 music-lovers from across the globe annually.
The Chosen Few Picnic has become an iconic event that showcases the rich history and vibrant culture of house music. It has a deep-rooted connection to the Chicago house music scene, which is known for its soulful and groovy sound. The picnic attracts thousands of people each year, including devoted house music fans, industry professionals, and individuals looking for a unique and uplifting musical experience.
The Chosen Few DJ collective consists of some of the most esteemed names in the Chicago house music scene. Among the notable DJs are Wayne Williams, Alan King, Jesse Saunders, Tony Hatchett, Andre Hatchett, Mike Dunn and Terry Hunter. Each DJ has made significant contributions to the genre and has left a lasting impact on the house music community.
MEET THE CHOSEN FEW DJs
Wayne Williams
The visionary behind the Chosen Few Collective, has established himself as an enduring icon in the Chicago house music scene since the 1980s. With a deep-rooted passion for music and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Williams has become a prominent figure in shaping the genre's landscape.
Renowned for his impeccable mixing skills and an innate ability to curate eclectic music selections that transcend boundaries, Wayne's influence extends far beyond the confines of his beloved Chicago. A true ambassador of house music, his relentless dedication and unwavering belief in the power of the genre have propelled him to the forefront of the global stage, sharing the gospel of house music with fervor and leaving an indelible impact on the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
Alan King
An esteemed DJ and producer, has earned widespread acclaim for his soulful and melodic approach to house music. With a versatility that knows no bounds, King effortlessly navigates through diverse sub-genres of house, effortlessly blending deep house, disco, and jazz-infused sounds. His seamless transitions and impeccable track selection demonstrate a mastery of his craft, captivating the hearts of house music aficionados and solidifying his position as a beloved figure in the industry.
Alan King's artistry serves as a testament to the transformative power of music, inviting listeners into a world where emotions soar, and dancefloors pulsate with an irresistible energy.
Jesse Saunders
A true pioneer and a legend in the realm of house music, holds an irreplaceable position in history. Revered as the "Originator," Saunders etched his name in the annals of music by releasing the groundbreaking track "On and On" in 1984, the first-ever house music record. This momentous creation not only catapulted him to the forefront of the Chicago music scene but also established the city as the birthplace of the vibrant genre.
Jesse Saunders' immeasurable influence continues to reverberate through the fabric of house music, forever shaping its evolution and inspiring countless artists to embark on their own sonic journeys. His pioneering spirit and undeniable talent remain a guiding light, illuminating the path for future generations of house music enthusiasts and ensuring his legacy lives on.
Tony Hatchett
A name synonymous with infectious energy and uplifting vibes, has cemented his reputation as a revered DJ. Known for his masterful ability to weave soulful vocals, infectious rhythms, and powerful basslines into captivating sets, Hatchett creates an electric atmosphere that leaves crowds spellbound. With a career spanning several decades, his unwavering dedication and distinctive style have made him an indispensable part of the esteemed Chosen Few collective.
As a true ambassador of house music, Tony Hatchett's passion and artistry have consistently propelled the genre forward, igniting dance floors and spreading the infectious joy of house music to all who encounter his remarkable talent.
Andre Hatchett
The talented brother of Tony Hatchett, is a DJ who effortlessly blends soul, disco, and classic house elements to craft unforgettable sets. With a keen ear for selecting tracks that transcend time, Hatchett has a knack for curating a sonic journey that simultaneously evokes nostalgia and keeps the dance floor ablaze with energy. His seamless transitions and impeccable track selection create an immersive experience where timeless melodies merge with pulsating beats.
Andre Hatchett's innate ability to strike a balance between the past and the present in his DJ sets showcases his artistry and leaves audiences captivated, ensuring that his performances are cherished as unforgettable moments in the tapestry of house music.
Mike Dunn
A true luminary of the house music scene, exudes an unmatched passion for his craft that permeates every beat he drops. With a career spanning several decades, Dunn has carved his name into the annals of house music history. His style is a fusion of raw energy, soulful grooves, and infectious rhythms that captivate audiences worldwide.
Known for his electrifying stage presence and seamless mixing, Mike Dunn has left an indelible mark on the genre, pushing boundaries and inspiring generations of house music enthusiasts.
Terry Hunter
A multifaceted DJ, producer, and remixer, stands as a true luminary within the music industry. Collaborating with esteemed artists and leaving his indelible mark on countless projects, Hunter has carved a unique space for himself. Renowned for his distinct blend of soulful and deep house, he seamlessly weaves together the rich textures of R&B and gospel music, creating a sonic tapestry that resonates deep within the soul. Terry Hunter's contributions to the Chosen Few and the broader house music community have not only earned him critical acclaim but also fostered a devoted fan base who are captivated by his artistic vision.
With an unwavering commitment to his craft and an unmatched passion for music, Hunter continues to shape and elevate the genre, leaving an enduring legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Immerse Yourself in the Electric Atmosphere of the Chosen Few DJ's Picnic
The atmosphere throughout the verdant Chicago grounds at the Chosen Few DJ's Picnic is nothing short of electric. As the music fills the air, an undeniable energy takes hold, captivating the hearts and bodies of all in attendance.
The beats pulsate through the crowd, creating a symphony of movement and rhythm that transcends the barriers of age, race, and background. Smiling faces and outstretched arms sway in unison, an awe-inspiring display of unity and sheer joy. The air crackles with excitement, anticipation, and the shared love for music that binds everyone together. It's an immersive experience where time seems to stand still, and worries fade away as the collective consciousness surrenders to the power of the DJ's selections.
This is a place where moments turn into memories, and the love for music intertwines with the very fabric of the event. It's a tight-knit family, welcoming new members with open arms and celebrating the diverse tapestry of Chicago's music-loving community. In this remarkable gathering, barriers dissolve, and a profound sense of belonging emerges, reminding us all of the unifying force that music can be.
This legendary event encapsulates the very essence of Chicago's music scene, weaving a tapestry of beats and melodies that transcend time and genre.
With its rich history and unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community, the Chosen Few DJ's Picnic stands as a testament to the transformative power of music. From the electrifying performances of renowned DJs to the pulsating energy that permeates every corner, this annual celebration ignites a flame of passion and unity that resonates long after the final note fades. So, heed the call, embrace the rhythm, and join the ranks of those who have experienced the magic firsthand.
THE CHOSEN FEW PICNIC 2023 HAS OFFICIALLY ENDED! STAY TUNED FOR UPCOMING ARTICLES THAT SHOWCASE IMMERSIVE EVENT RECAPS AND EVENT NEWS YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!
Didn't make it to this years event? Don't worry! The Chosen Few Picnic will be back next year. Until then, there are tons of opportunities to catch the Collective as a whole, and to see independent DJ performances.
Tambor Cruise 2023 in Egypt later this year will feature DJ's Wayne Williams, Alan King and Terry Hunter!
This is one of the most exclusive, intimate and energy-packed house music parties of the year. Click the link below to find out more, and to secure your tickets before they're sold out!