The Chicago Independent Radio Project (CHIRP) has announced plans to honor the late Clarence Ewing, a dedicated member of its volunteer staff, during a special trivia night event on July 15.
Ewing, known for his passion for music and his commitment to fostering an inclusive community around it, contributed significantly to CHIRP when he joined as a volunteer in 2010. He quickly rose through the ranks to become CHIRP’s blog director and later co-director of online media.
For twelve years, Ewing hosted his own DJ show called The Million Year Trip, which aired every Sunday from 2 PM to 4 PM. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 54 on June 23, 2022, just a day after missing his show due to illness.
In a heartfelt tribute, longtime CHIRP DJ and board member emeritus Mike Bennett filled in for Ewing during his scheduled slot on June 29. Bennett chose to honor Ewing by playing tracks from artists that Ewing cherished, including Jackie Shane, Tinariwen, and Circuit des Yeux. These selections were sourced from Ewing’s contributions to CHIRP’s yearly “best albums” lists.
As Campbell, the founder and general manager of CHIRP, reflected on Ewing’s contributions, she highlighted his encouraging nature and the profound impact he had on fellow volunteers. He was known for editing and enhancing others’ writing, showcasing his desire to elevate the talents of those around him rather than seeking the spotlight for himself.
Ewing’s time with CHIRP was marked by his enduring passion for music. He often spoke on air about discovering new favorites through the top-ten lists contributed by other volunteers. This spirit of curiosity and learning was at the heart of what CHIRP sought in its members, and Ewing served as a stellar example of that ethos.
His private life was kept largely separate from his public persona. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Ewing held a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and an MBA from DePaul’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business. His professional life included a role as an operations manager in the recruitment and admissions department at the Academy for Urban School Leadership.
In a poignant statement during the memorial broadcast, Ewing’s sister, Mona Ewing Yaeger, remarked, “Music is the fuel that drove my brother, Clarence, in everything he did.”
To celebrate Ewing’s legacy, CHIRP will hold a monthly trivia night titled Words and Music, hosted by DJ moimoi, at Beermiscuous on Lincoln Avenue. The event is scheduled for 7 PM and encourages attendees to come together in appreciation of Ewing’s love for music.
In other news, local band Gosh Diggity released a new album titled Good Luck! Have Fun!, which incorporates vibrant chiptune synth elements. The Chicago-based twee-pop trio is set to headline Beat Kitchen on July 13, with the show starting at 8 PM featuring opening acts Jacob Horn Trio and Hard Femme. Tickets for this event cost $21.80, and attendees must be at least 17 years old to enter.
As CHIRP continues to develop as a community-centric platform for music lovers, Ewing’s influence and contributions will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. His dedication to music and his ability to inspire others remain a cherished part of CHIRP’s legacy.
image source from：chicagoreader
