“Promised Land” by Joe Smooth, released in 1987, is a seminal house music track that became an anthem for the genre. The song embodies a message of unity, love, and hope, drawing from gospel and soul influences.
Joe Smooth has worked as a remixer, producer, engineer, and writer over the last 40 plus years. He has earned gold and platinum record awards for his work with Grammy award-winning artists such as Whitney Houston, Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Janet Jackson & New Order.
Farley “Jackmaster” Funk, born Farley Keith Williams, is a pioneering figure in Chicago house music. Rising to prominence in the mid-1980s, he played a critical role in shaping the house sound that emerged from Chicago’s underground club scene. As a DJ and producer, he is best known for his 1986 hit “Love Can’t Turn Around” featuring Darryl Pandy, which was one of the first house music tracks to achieve mainstream success in the UK, helping to introduce the genre to a global audience.
Chess Records was a legendary American record label founded in 1950 by Leonard and Phil Chess in Chicago, Illinois. Known for shaping the sound of modern blues, rock and roll, and rhythm and blues, Chess became one of the most influential labels in American music history. The label’s roster included some of the most iconic artists of the 20th century, such as Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Etta James, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, and Willie Dixon.
The Chess brothers were known for their keen ear for talent and their hands-on approach to recording, often working with musicians to shape their songs into hits.
Farley ‘Jackmaster Funk’ (Chicago Dance Party 1988)
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