The Chosen Few Picnic and Festival brought together more than 30,000 music enthusiasts on Saturday, July 12, at the vibrant intersection of 63rd Street and Stony Island Avenue in Chicago, marking its 35th anniversary.
The festival featured legendary DJs including Wayne Williams, Jesse Saunders, Tony Hatchett, Andre Hatchett, Alan King, Mike Dunn, and Terry Hunter, all celebrated for their significant contributions to the house music scene.
As attendees entered the festival grounds, they were enveloped by palpable energy characterized by pulsing beats, families dancing joyously, beautifully adorned tents, and mouthwatering scents from sizzling grills.
In recent interviews with The Chicago Defender, both Terry Hunter and Mike Dunn reflected on their extensive journeys in the music industry and what the festival means to the culture of house music today.
Hunter, whose career began as a high school DJ, emphasized the importance of growth and ambition from the very start.
“Honestly, I figured it out pretty young, around high school,” he shared.
Though he was already performing at local parties, it was during his senior year that Hunter realized he desired more than just local recognition.
Recalling a memorable night with the late Frankie Knuckles, Hunter mentioned, “I was like, ‘You’re traveling and making records, what’s next for me?’ And he told me, ‘If you want to go global, you need to learn how to produce.'”
Inspired, Hunter began producing music that resonated with audiences, leading to his breakout track, “Madness,” which he created with his late friend Armando.
The success of the track elevated his career and allowed him to travel internationally, fundamentally changing his perspective on music.
Now, Hunter vividly describes the exhilarating connection between the DJ and the audience as a transfer of energy, akin to an out-of-body experience.
He noted, “Knowing you can shape someone’s mood or entire day, that’s a true blessing.”
Despite his global travels, he admits he struggles to find time to unwind, as his mind is often focused on preparing for performances.
However, this year hints at a shift, with Hunter aiming to dedicate more time to himself and his family, which includes two sons—one of whom is now following in his footsteps as a DJ and producer.
On the other hand, Mike Dunn celebrated a pivotal moment in his music career with the 1987 release of his first record, “Dance You Mutha,” recognizing the significant influence of house music pioneers like Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy.
Dunn emphasized how he enjoys mentoring the next generation of DJs, including Amir from New Jersey and J-Star, citing this as a critical part of his role in the evolving house music landscape.
He describes his early work as a profound turning point.
“When I put out ‘Dance You Mutha’ in 1987, I was committed to creating a unique sound for parties,” Dunn remarked.
He reflected fondly on his collaborations with friends Hugo H and Tyree Cooper, which he believed embodied the true essence of house music, cultivated in the comfort of personal spaces.
Dunn, too, experiences a powerful connection with audiences during performances, sharing, “It’s a natural high. There’s nothing like it. It’s love you can feel.”
Many attendees see the festival as a spiritual gathering, akin to a communal church where love and unity manifest through music, with Dunn likening himself and other DJs to spiritual leaders guiding the experience.
Outside of his DJ commitments, Dunn finds solace in household activities and nurturing his personal life.
He stated, “Sleep! [laughs] But honestly, I love cooking and cleaning.”
Brought up with traditional values instilled by his grandmother, Dunn finds peace and fulfillment in engaging with everyday life tasks, along with interests in politics and sports.
The Chosen Few Picnic also serves as a stage for pushing boundaries in the music industry.
Terry Hunter mentioned that he had shared a preview of Beyoncé’s track “Break My Soul” at the festival prior to its official release, emphasizing the profound impact of his work through remixes that have resonated with audiences.
In celebration of his birthday, Hunter is organizing a significant event at Wintrust Arena on August 16, featuring a lineup that showcases various genres including house, hip hop, and soul.
As the Chosen Few Picnic garnered thousands of attendees, Dunn took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to both new and returning festival-goers.
“I don’t call them fans, I call them supporters. Fans cool you down. Supporters keep you hot. That’s real,” he articulated.
He further invited everyone to experience the festival as a familial gathering filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.
It’s become an international event welcoming people from all corners of the globe, yet it retains a palpable sense of home for all who attend.
To keep updated about the next Chosen Few Picnic and Festival slated for 2026, interested parties can visit www.chosenfewdjs.com for further details.
The celebration of house music at the Chosen Few Picnic and Festival remains a vital thread connecting generations, ensuring that the sound and spirit of house continue to thrive for many years to come.
image source from：chicagodefender
