Dance music in Chicago hits simply hits different. The city’s history shares roots with the birth of dance music in the underground club scene in the 1980s where a new genre called house was taking over. House music began its evolution in Chicago with Phuture, a group consisting of DJ Pierre, Spanky, and Herb J releasing the influential “Acid Tracks” in 1987. Today, Chicago is still changing the scene with natives like John Summit and Green Velvet leading the future of house music. If you’re looking to visit Chicago and experience an atmosphere like no other than Heatwave Music Festival is the place for you!

Allie Mischen

Lineup 

With a lineup of innovators and legends, there was something for everyone at Heatwave! One of the sets i was looking forward to the most was Kx5 which is the new alterego duo of Kaskade and Deadmau5. Chicago native Kaskade gave us everything in his arsenal alongside Deadma5’s master sound design I was left in a trance! Getting to hear one of the biggest records of the year Escape live was an experience i won’t forget.

Tritt Visuals

LSDream and Griz are on top of the bass music scene at the moment. Both of their sounds have been innovative in their genres and continue to bring new fans to bass music. A name most people may not be familiar with on the lineup was Alec Monopoly, an artist best known for his graffiti work which can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $500,000. Getting to see his art at the venue and seeing a set from him was a real treat!

Art & Stages

From a massive duck to world-class graffiti artists, dancers, and colorful art installations the festival had plenty to explore. Chicago’s skyline was the backdrop to the venue which made for unforgettable views. Here at Stage Hoppers we have a reputation for loving big stage with lots of fire and lasers and Heatwave did not disappoint! With world class talent behind the decks this year’s setup made us crave one more day for this amazing festival. Really our only complain is that we would love to see this festival expand to three days!

Tritt Visuals

We left this festival satisfied and with a new appreciation for the Chicago scene. CHICAGO! We love you and hope to see you again this time next year. Keep up with Heatwave Chicago here.

Tyler Glasenapp