The DJ
In Chicago, DJ KHAALIQ (Keevin Muhammad) is known as one of the most humble street jocks on the music scene.
Born Ke’vin Phillips, he started to deejay as a hobby in 1985. His greatest influence came in the person of the late Jam Master Jay (RIP). In 1990, KHAALIQ embarked on a greater journey by becoming a professional deejay launching what is now known as KHAALIQ ENTERTAINMENT. The 90’s was the time DJ Khaaliq used to develop his style and spent most of that time as a mobile DJ. He describes his style as Jesus speaking to the masses, in a slang language. He has mastered the art of facilitating the LIVE show and views disc jockeying as a performance and not a service. Whereas some DJs sound great only on mix tapes and CDs, KHAALIQ scratches, blends, mixes, and excites the crowd and he does so, LIVE.
There are no special computers or pre-recorded sounds that he relies on. He depends solely on his passion, instinct, and a knack for the unexpected. He has put in years of hard work to build a huge following and a working relationship with ChicagoNightLife.com, Center Stage Ent., A’ La Carte, The Soul Selectors (Chicago’s Largest DJ Organization), and other entertainment companies. Under the umbrella of KHAALIQ PRODUCTIONS, he promoted events, produced music, and toured, with multiple artists. While DJing for rap artists, he learned the importance of the LIVE show. After years of perfecting his craft, he came to the conclusion that a phenomenal LIVE performance is a GUARANTEE. “You always get called back,” he said.
In 2001, DJ KHAALIQ released his first mix CD, “THE MESSAGE” which he followed up with “HOTTER THAN JULY,” “DA MUSIQ” in 2003, and “THE REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE DIGITIZED” in early 2005.
With his latest release, ”DECEPTIVE INTELLIGENCE” he is remaining true to his LIVE roots. KHAALIQ has opened for the likes of Run-DMC, Jay Z, Twista, Lil Romieo, Luke, Common, and Master P. He has also provided music for R. Kelly, Fabolous, Redman, Dem Franchise Boys and Method Man official after-parties. He has landed residencies at The Drink, Vision, Club Nu, Tini Martini, and also played The Mission, North Beach and Circus. Cities like Milwaukee, Washington D.C., Memphis, and El Paso have tasted his flavorful turntable techniques.
Overall, when it comes to DJ KHAALIQ…to know his work, is to see him at work…LIVE!!!
DJ Khaaliq
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