Bree Specific is an influential and vibrant voice in Chicago’s music and entertainment industry. Known for her undeniable position as a tastemaker, she reveals in an exclusive interview with rolling out what makes Chicago unique in the music industry, highlights the city’s hottest clubs and shares invaluable advice on how artists can stand out.
Specific’s journey into radio began unexpectedly, blossoming from a college radio show host to attending Illinois Media School and evolving into a career with WGCI and What’s The Word TV. She has carved out a space as a trusted voice in Chicago’s dynamic and diverse music landscape.
What sets Chicago’s music climate apart from other major cities, and are there specific genres that capture the essence of Chicago at the moment?
Chicago is big on storytelling through our music, whether it’s drill, house, boom bap, conscious, etc. I wouldn’t say there’s a genre that captures Chicago because we’re so big and so beautiful in different ways. Not one sound can define that. Even if mainstream tries to only glorify one side, there’s so much more to explore that captures a different essence of the city.
Which up-and-coming female artists in Chicago are you most excited about?
Fendi the Rapper for sure. She showed us she can make hits. Even when people may have doubted her after “Point ME 2,” “Clock Dat” came out, and she went crazy all over again. I also pay attention to how she never stops promoting herself and her music. A lot of artists struggle with promotion and want to look “cool” online, but if you are not pushing your music, why should the fans help? Fendi gets that part, and I’ve spent some time with her — she has a very caring spirit.
Which clubs or venues in Chicago are currently drawing the biggest crowds, and what makes them so popular?
The Red Room is dope right now for the creative scene. Club-wise, Gold Coast Social and Expat are a vibe for sure. Of course, Sundays are for The Witt. Chicago is different because, although we have our set clubs, they’re always changing. They’re more curated experiences now by people like Cre8tive Sessions and collectives who produce their own events that are always a vibe.
Are there any grassroots movements or organizations you find especially impactful?
Mental Health Meets Hip Hop is an amazing organization that pushes the narrative of community and internal wellness throughout Chicago. The John Walt Foundation on Chicago’s West Side serves to help advance high schoolers and young adults in creative arts. They offer scholarships, open mics and TIP Fest, which brings the best of Chicago teen artists to the forefront every summer.
What qualities do you look for when discovering emerging artists?
It’s really a feeling. When I listen, I want to feel something. From there, I check out your brand presence. Can I tell who you are by your music and your socials? This is always something that can be worked on as well, but that feeling — yeah, I need that to be able to want to know more about your artistry.
How do you envision the Chicago music scene evolving in the next five years?
Chicago will emerge as the city known for multiple genres, not just one. We just saw Tink sell out the United Center, and the R&B about to come out — from Jaas to Miriah Renee — will make the city exciting. Philmore Greene is dropping music and performing all over, and Chicago’s alternative punk rap is emerging with artists like BB Subi and FatBoy Goth.
What advice would you give to those hoping to follow a similar path?
Do your research, make a plan for yourself, and if that plan takes a detour, sit back down and reroute. Connect with everyone you can because you never know who will make decisions one day, so be kind to everyone. Support is free.
