Episode 170 features two incredibly talented individuals known as Local Singles! 2021 has been quite the year for these guys and we were laughing all the way through this one.

We got it all in during this interview and discussed:

-Early inspirations and influences: Both hardcore Bostonians (but appartently not Bruins fans - I might get them in trouble for saying that), Chaz and Zach met at a very young age and music has always been a big part of their lives. Chaz has been producing for 10+ years but Zach brought him to the dark side and they joined forces to create a house duo with one goal: make an impact. 💥

•Discography: In their breakout year of 2021, they have released some BANGERS like "Lose Control" with Poolhaus and Boiish on Space Yacht, "Lighters" with FOVOS on Vibrancy, the "Sweatyriddimz" EP on Hood Politics, and "Mirrors" on IN/Rotation. They also just dropped a very special track called "Ill Provide" with Cloverdale on Techne Records. Needless to say, they are on FIRE 🔥

•State of House Music: We had a great conversation on where we all think house music is going over the next couple of years. If one thing is certain, there is no doubt that producers continue to get more and more creative with every release. There are no limits to what you can do in the studio and collaboration has never been more prevalent in the community. Get ready for some sounds like you have never heard before. 🪄

I really mean it when I say these guys are building something so special and are working extremely hard to make their dream come true. They're hustlers with raw talent and that's something we can all get behind. 🙌🏻

Much love and respect to the Local Singles boys - they are actually single right now by the way so get in line ladies!! 😜

iTunes

SITB 171 feat. Local Singles (DJ/Producer Duo)

Not gonna sugar coat how excited I am about this one for even a second!! Episode 172 features 2 time Grammy Award winning DJ/Producer/Label Head and all around good guy CID ! I have been following him for over 7 years and am genuinely a massive fan. Truly honored to have this legend on the show and it was a blast getting his full story. 🙌🏻

linktr.ee/sherminthebooth

In 172 we discussed:

•Early inspirations and influences: Born and raised in Queens, NY Carlos is the youngest of three brothers and has always had a passion for music. NYC's rich music and dance culture played a huge role in finding his way to becoming a DJ and eventually made the jump to pursuing production. In 2006, he sent a record to Markus Schulz and got his first track signed - hasn't looked back since! 👟

•The CID Discography: We took a sonic journey through CID's incredible catalogue of originals, remixes, and collaborations over the years and got the full scoop on his creative process and how his sound has evolved since day 1. We ran through how some of his biggest hits came together like "Jumpin" with Westend, "Us" with Kaskade, "Fever" with Don Diablo, and solo releases such as "Believer" featuring Cee Lo Green, "Downstairs" and his grammy award winning remix of Lizzo's "Truth Hurts". Can I get a SHEESH?! 🗣

•Night Service Only: In June 2019, CID launched his new label "Night Service Only" with one goal in mind - release club bangers. He's given a massive platform to talented artists like J. Worra, Chapter & Verse, Black V Neck, MUUS, Cloverdale and so many more. We had a great discussion on his long-term vision for the label and what he looks for in demos - "It needs to be something I would play in my sets” 📝

CID is on FIRE right now and is fresh off a massive Lollapalooza set and an incredible release called "Honey" with Volkoder on Musical Freedom. It's truly incredible to see him continue to grow on all levels but also bring others along on this crazy ride with him. Big things for 2021 and beyond! ⭐️

Thank you thank you THANK YOU for making some time and coming on the show - one of the biggest and best interviews yet. I can't wait to meet in person someday soon and I'm looking forward to hearing some new Night Service Only releases! 🔥

@cidmusic

SITB 172 feat. CID (DJ/Producer)

Episode 200 baby!!!! We made it. 

What an insane ride this has been so far. I cannot thank you all enough for the support - it means the world to me. ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

Over 5 years deep and still so much more to accomplish. We got big plans for 2022 and beyond people! 🤘🏻

Massive shoutout to Ramon for stopping by and interviewing me - you’re gonna want to watch this episode… Where do you guys think he's from? I don't even remember how we met. 🤔

linktr.ee/sherminthebooth

SITB 200 feat. Sherm

I caught up with Susie last week on IG live and had such a blast connecting with him and doing this interview live.

In 201 we had a blast and chatted about:

•Miami Music Week 2022: DJ Susan was at MMW this year and gave us the full recap on his experience... and wow was it special. He played at Anthony Attalla's Incorrect event at Treehouse and an Ultra Records event at Soho House and also attended the Repopulate Mars and Techne Events. He was literally there from Wednesday to Friday night and never stopped having fun. 🤩

•2022 plans: Last time I had Susan on was late in 2020 and he had a MASSIVE 2021 - huge shows and prolific releases all while running his label Hood Politics Records. Needless to say, his nonstop efforts last year have teed him up for the biggest year yet. His music is being played worldwide on the biggest stages and he just signed an exclusive with Ultra's new label called Helix. It's GO TIME! 🏃‍♂️

•Q&A: We had some amazing questions come in from the people and made sure to answer them all. We talked about how we met, plans for Hood Politics Records, how to throw events, and so much more. Really loved taking these questions on with Susan, he's such an inspiring person and I love his perspective on the industry.🤘🏻

I talk to DJ Susan almost daily and he makes my day every time. This man's passion to make the industry and the world a better place helps me get out of bed every morning. 💫

I cannot wait to see what the rest of 2022 holds for him but if there's one thing I know for sure... DJ Susan is taking over but putting EVERYONE on the guest list. An unstoppable positive force - hop on people! 🚂

linktr.ee/sherminthebooth

SITB 201 feat. DJ Susan (DJ/Producer)

Episode 207 features my favorite DJ duo in the game - the boys of Broken Future!! I caught up with these Canadian legends a few weeks back and had such a blast chatting and getting their full story. 📖

In episode 207 we got it all in:

•Becoming Broken Future: Jake and Brandon both grew up in northwest Canada and always had a passion for music. They actually met working for a promotion company and decided to join forces and started making music. Over the past 5 years, the boys have continued to evolve their sound and have created a truly unique sonic identity. Although they are wildly talented, the boys stay humble and are the first to tell you it doesn't happen overnight. 💪🏻

•Discography: The Broken Future sound is highly coveted and produce music that can only be described as "ROLLERS". They are a cornerstone of the Hood Politics sound and have released on House of Hustle, OFDM, Rock Bottom and just had a collab on IN/ROTATION with DJ Susan. We ran through some of their early tracks and got the full story on hits like "Benz Friends", "Tell Me" and "Ho Honey". 🔥

•In The Stu: No surprises, BF was in their studio when they did this interview - It's basically their home. These guys literally live and breathe music - they are constantly creating and inspiring each other with every idea. We discussed their collaboration process and they ended up sharing some secret plugins and tricks of the trade for saving time with your tracks. These guys are a wealth of knowledge with production!! 🪄

Of COURSE this was an extended interview because these are literally some of the greatest guys I've ever met - could chat with them for days. I'm so inspired by their hustle, talent, and relentless Canadian positivity to just keep going - and have fun while you're doing it!! 🎸

Make sure to give these guys a follow if you haven't heard of them - big things coming. 🙌🏻

SITB 207 feat. Broken Future (DJ/Producer Duo)

Firstly, we're celebrating 6 years of SITB. 6 years! I am not going to lie, I almost forgot because it seems like just yesterday that I was saying how crazy it's been that 5 years have gone by. Thank you so much to everyone that has supported me along the way. I absolutely love what I do.

Secondly, we have our FIRST 3 timer on the show today! My dear friend Isaac Palmer was in town and we had such a fun time chatting and catching up. 

In 213 we got it all in and discussed:

-The Past, Present and Future of Isaac Palmer: Isaac was one of my first guests - episode 11, over 6 years ago! He was on again for episode 037 but so much has happened since then in our lives. He's an incredibly smart and talented dude who shared his full story about his successes in music, his travels around the world and also some of the issues he's had with his health over the years. Powerful stuff throughout. 

-Isaac Palmer Discography: Isaac is one of the most talented and hardworking producers I have ever met - he taught me almost everything I know about music production and he's 8 years younger than me! The time and effort that he has put in has led him to release tracks like "Inception" with Tony Junior on Maxximize Records, "Need You" with Thmpsn, and a remix of "I Love You" from The Chainsmokers. Not to mention a slew of remixes that he's released for free over the years - most notably Skrillex's "Ego Death" which is absolute HEAT!

-Self-Made: Isaac has taken 0 shortcuts in life. He's had to overcome more obstacles at his age than most people do in a lifetime. His passion for music has helped him get through some tough times and he continues to stay humble and motivated in the studio on a daily basis. Isaac is the MAN and against all odds has networked his way to becoming a true force in the industry - but a positive force at that. His story is an inspiration to me and so many others. 

It's truly an honor to have Isaac on the podcast - I've seen him grow (literally) over the years and he's like a brother to me. When I think about how far he's come on a personal and professional level, I can't help but smile and get excited for the future that is ahead of him. He deserves everything coming his way, but he's the one who is making it happen.

Isaac, thank you so much for coming on the show - I can't think of a better guest to have on 3 times and also celebrate 6 years of SITB with me. So much love and respect for you my man!

SITB 213 feat. Isaac Palmer (DJ/Producer)

We have an amazing episode for you today and it features a very special artist who has had a MASSIVE year! It is my honor to have the one and only Maddy O'Neal as my guest for episode 215. 

Maddy and I have been trying to line this up for awhile and I'm so glad we finally made it happen. 

In episode 215 we discussed:

-Gratitude - Past, Present and Future: Something I've been thinking a lot about is practicing self-gratitude and I wanted to get Maddy's take on what she is grateful and proud of from her past, present and future. This opened up a much bigger discussion on how she mentally and physically manages her life as a touring artist. I know this portion of the interview will resonate with so many people - Thanks for sharing so much Maddy!

-Relationship with Music: Maddy has described her music as "dirty funk bass music but make it pretty" and I think anyone that is so poetically raw when describing their music is connected to it more than the average person. For an artist like Maddy, music is so much more than music. It's a way of life - it's where she finds "home". Like any relationship in life, they come with highs and lows. Maddy and I shared stories of when when that love is tested and when it's reaffirmed - loved this discussion! 

-New album - "Ricochet" - Maddy just released her second studio album and all I can really say is WOW. We went deep on her creative process when she was putting it together and where her heart and head were at throughout. One thing that continued to come up during our interview was being "unapologetically yourself" and this album is her story that she wanted to tell the world. You have to check it out!

While music is always at the core of a SITB interview, Maddy and I found ourselves on topics in and outside of being an artist which was so much fun. She has a genuine love for making and sharing music but in her own dirty but pretty way. 

Maddy, thank you so much for making some time in between your tour stops and sharing some incredible pieces of advice for anyone who's trying to build their career.

SITB 215 feat. Maddy O'Neal (Producer/DJ)

I am honored to have the amazingly talented Producer/Songwriter/DJ @venessamichaels Michaels on for the first episode of 2023!

I caught up with Venessa a few weeks ago and had SO much fun chatting with her. We were vibing the entire time and the conversation was truly A1.

In 217 we discussed: 

-Journey Into Music: Venessa and I shared stories from some of our first DJ gigs and discussed how crazy of journey it's been as a DJ. Her mom actually pushed her to start DJing and she quickly realized that this is exactly what she was born to do after her first gig. She continued to build her name on the west coast and began to release music under her self-coined genre "2090". 

-Discography: Venessa has a DENSE discography of originals, remixes, collabs and features that is truly and unapologetically her. Her sound is so unique and fuses genres effortlessly with each production. She gave us the backstory on tracks like "Creme Brulee" with Kaleena Zanders (The GOAT), her remix of Gallant's "Weight In Gold", and how she produced the theme song for Dreamworks/Netflix show "KIPO and The Age of Wonderbeasts". She can do it all! 

-"Sent From Saturn": Venessa is set to release her first studio album "Sent From Saturn" later this month and recently put out the first single "Spirit of Mine" featuring Luck. We went deep on the creative process she took while creating this album and the meaning behind the project. It was truly amazing to hear her talk about how it all came together and why she chose to create an album rather than blast out singles. Can't wait to hear it! 

She is also a SUPER talented DJ and performer who's played at Coachella, Splash House and toured across the country for years - I'm absolutely dying to see her. 

There wasn't a second of silence in this interview and the energy was on fire. We laughed, we cried (kinda but not really), got real and above all had fun.

linktr.ee/sherminthebooth

SITB 217 feat. Venessa Michaels (Producer/Songwriter/DJ)

I know most of you know how much I love connecting with both sides of the music industry and today we have a backend titan who has been making waves for years - we have the VP of Disco Donnie Evan Bailey on and I couldn't be more excited to share this episode.

Evan and I met at ADE in October and after hearing him speak on branding and sponsorship I knew that I had to get him on SITB.

In 218 we discussed:

-Journey Into The Music Industry: Born in NYC but raised in Ohio, Evan always had a profound love for music. He was in a band in college and always planned on rock/punk until he went to his first rave and saw Paul Johnson killing it and fell in love with dance music. He shifted gears and went all in on electronic music throwing parties, DJing and immersing himself in this new world. He eventually crossed paths with James "Disco Donnie" Estopinal and joined forces - the rest is history. 

Role With Disco Donnie: Evan came into Disco Donnie in the early stages and has been a core influencer in helping the event and promotion company explode over the past 20+ years. As VP, Evan is responsible for a little bit of everything and there's nothing that is below him when it comes to making the experience a memory that they will never forget. Spanning over 100 cities around the world, Evan helps Disco Donnie Presents produce thousands of live music events and festivals including Ubbi Dubbi, Sunset Music Festival, Freaky Deaky and Lights All Night each year.

Equity, Inclusion, Diversity Programming: One of Evan's major focuses is making sure DDP events are a safe and comfortable place for both patrons, artists, and vendors. Evan recently set up a music scholarship through Vanderbilt that honors their former colleague Leon Jackson that gives anyone the opportunity to pursue music as a full-time career. Evan also works very hard to give a spotlight to diverse up and coming artists to play at their events - his passion certainly shows on and off the stage. Loved this portion of the interview! 

2023 is just getting started but Evan and the Disco Donnie team have a massive year planned that is sure to drop some jaws. I cannot wait to see what they have coming! 

Evan is one of the most humble, driven and intelligent people I've met in the industry and I'm so glad we made the time to get his full story.

Thank you so much for coming on my friend and I look forward to connecting again soon.

Let's get into it right now so you can hear his story for yourselves, this is episode 218 with Evan Bailey.

SITB 218 feat. Evan Bailey (VP, Disco Donnie Presents)

What up everyone!

Today is friday May 19th 2023 and this is episode 219. It has been a few months since the last episode but we are BACK and better than ever.

It is my honor to welcome back two special individuals who have now officially joined forces under their new moniker "HOTPRETTY" - Zooey Glass and Abigail are some SITB OG's and it was such a blast sitting down with them and talking about this new project.

You are going to want to listen to this one people - we talked about the past, present and future of the Chicago House music scene, launching "HOTPRETTY", event curation, music production styles and influences, overcoming performance anxiety, mental health and so much more.

I have known them for years - Zooey was on episode 039 and Abigail was 90!! They are some of my favorite people in and outside of music and I'm genuinely a huge fan. Cannot wait to see this next chapter unfold! 

linktr.ee/sherminthebooth

SITB 219 feat. HOTPRETTY (DJ/Producer Duo)

I am so excited to share this episode because this was recorded LIVE with an audience in Chicago with my boy Kaysin. 

Nick was in town for his debut headline Chicago show at Primary Nightclub and we've been trying to make this happen for a while now

We talked about some of his biggest tracks over the past 2 years including his Dillon Nathaniel collaborations which have recently been supported by Fisher, playing EDC Las Vegas, Repopulate Mars expansion with their second sub label North of Neptune and how it's been going as A&R for the number 1 selling tech house label on Beatport! 

We also had a Q&A section from the audience at the end which was really fun and valuable as well. 

Thanks so much for making the time to do this Kaysin! This is what I love to do. 

Let's get into it right now so you can hear it for yourselves, this is episode 220 with Kaysin.

SITB 220 LIVE feat. Kaysin(DJ/Producer/A&R)

Tech house is a subgenre of house music fusing elements of techno (rugged basslines) and house (harmonies/vocals) - Fisher, John Summit, Green Velvet, and Solardo are just a few examples of where the sound comes from, and where it is today. 

During this session, featuring reps from several top Tech/House labels from the US, the conversation will focus on how to start a relationship with US labels, how to develop a fanbase, organize successful events, and grow profitable relationships with the US. 

The main focus of the discussion will be built around how foreign labels/artists can break into the booming American Tech/House market.

Featuring:
Kaysin (DJ, Producer - A&R Repopulate Mars)
DJ Susan (DJ, Producer - Founder Hood Politics Records)
Carissa Szlosek (Artist Manager, Prodigy Artists)
Moderator: Sherm (DJ, Producer - A&R Hood Politics Records

The US Tech/House Scene: Live from ADE

It's been way too long but I'm so glad to be back doing what I love the most - talking about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness aka talking bullshit with my friends, peers and esteemed colleagues in the music industry.

You already know I had to bring back DJ Susan for his 3rd SITB but his 1st in person. He was in town before our show at Sound-Bar - which was the biggest yet by the way - and we chopped it up for an hour on what's been up with him this year, our plans for Hood Politics, backfilled with absolutely ridiculous conversation topics but what else do you expect.

So so happy to be here and we are going to keep up the pace on new episodes so make sure to stay tuned and get ready for a new style of SITB - I'm here to have fun and that's that

Enjoy!

SITB 221 Feat DJ Susan (DJ/Producer)

Episode 222 features the incredibly talented DJ/Producer Ares Carter! This NYC native has built quite the name for himself since entering the music industry almost 10 years ago.

From his early days as the tour DJ for ILOVEMAKONNEN, to having a song in FIFA 22, to touring the world and playing festivals like Ultra and Electric Zoo, Ares has quite the story so far. 

So glad we got to connect in person at ADE a few weeks ago before this interview - he's a really good guy and deserves everything coming his way.

SITB 222 feat. Ares Carter (DJ/Producer)

We have another special interview for you all today

SITB 223 features fellow podcaster and dance music reporter Olivia Mancuso! 

I've known Olivia for a few years and I've always been impressed with her wide array of skills. From her days as a reporter, to her entrepreneurial pursuits, to interviewing some of the worlds biggest dance music acts at EDC Vegas and now her newest project called "Elevated Frequencies" - a podcast devoted to digging into the real lives of musicians. 

It's always so much fun having another podcaster on because the conversation is so natural and engaging - this was a blast! 

Thanks for coming on Olivia and I'm looking forward to coming on Elevated Frequencies soon!

SITB 223 feat. Olivia Mancuso (Entrepreneur)

It is officially 2024 and I hope everyone had a fantastic end to the year - 2023 was quite the year but we are kicking this year off with one of my favorite episodes to date.

224 features my dear friend Colton Bachar - many of you know Colton from his incredible work as a videographer but there is so much more to him that you will all hear about coming up.

We had such a great conversation chatting about his journey and I have an even deeper level of admiration and respect for him on so many different levels.

SITB 224 feat. Colton Bachar (Videographer/Entrepreneur)

We are here today to get the full story of one of my favorite DJ/producers in the game Proppa. 

A Chicago native, Proppa has been in the game for a minute and deserves all the praise this city and the industry can offer.

We had so much fun chopping it up and talking about his viewpoints on what it takes to really make it in this business. He's full of great advice and I learned so much from him during this episode.

We went deep but it still felt like it flew by!! Thanks so much for coming on my friend and I look forward to to seeing what the future holds for you.

SITB 225 feat. Proppa (DJ/Producer)

We are chugging right along baby and today we have a truly awesome episode for ya featuring one of the hottest DJ/Producers in the game who goes by the name of @gudfellaofficial

Kyle is a wildly talented guy who's had an insane 365 days. We got it all in and had so much fun discussing his journey as a producer, soundcloud's role in his growth, collaborating with Tiesto, and what lies ahead in his near and distant future.

He might be young, but he's got a really genuine passion for music and you can tell he's here to have a blast and make an impact at the same time.

Much love Kyle and I can't wait to see you again soon!

SITB 227 feat. GUDFELLA (DJ/Producer)

Episode 232 features the incredibly talented DJ/Producer Goshfather! When I say this interview has it all, I really mean it.

We talked about the state of the industry and what the future looks like for artists, building your community and how to engage with that community as an artist, how he released 1 track every week for a year, social media and so much more.

I found myself completely engulfed in his stories and perspectives ranging from incredibly profound to absolutely hilarious. I know this episode is going to hit for so many of you! 

linktr.ee/sherminthebooth

SITB 232 feat Goshfather (DJ/Producer)

SITB 245 features Chicago House Music legend Terry Hunter - a 3x grammy nominated DJ, Producer and label owner who needs no introduction. 

Many of you know how passionate I am about the history of Chicago House Music and to have a 1-1 conversation with this icon just a few blocks away from the Warehouse is truly surreal.

Terry and I got connected through Chicago Music Nexus where he sat on a panel that I moderated called Adapt Or Die: Cultivating Resilience. His attitude on the past present and future of the music industry is refreshing, authentic and genuine - we share a lot of the same beliefs and perspectives which is why the energy was incredible from start to finish during this interview.

SITB 245 - Staying True w/ Terry Hunter

Episode 246 features SoCal based DJ/Producer XIE - We have been trying to line up a date for an interview for a minute and I'm so glad we found some time to connect

XIE is truly a unique talent not just because of her history as a classically trained musician but also her approach and perspective on what her intentions are on her journey as an artist.

It's all about the music to XIE and I couldn't agree more - we got deep on topics like purpose, finding your sonic identity, support DJ sets vs headlining, and so much more. 

XIE you are a real one and I had so much fun talking with you and I'm sure everyone else will enjoy this episode as well!

SITB 246 - Creativity Without Borders w/ XIE

Our guest for today is Brad Sweet - the co-founder of Same Same But Different Festival and co-host of the Different Paths PodcastWe had such a great time getting into the origins of SSBD - for those that haven't heard of it, you need to. 

It takes place in Lake Perris, CA just outside of LA and San Diego. It's grown so much since their first run in 2018 and have had artists like Griz, Polo and Pan, Louis The Child, Big Wild and What So Not on - and that's just to name a few.

We talked a lot about purpose, community and longevity and why these things matter when it comes to music festivals but that's what makes SSBD different - it's a truly special experience not just for the fans, but also the artists and they'll tell you that themselves! This is a truly unique festival because everyone contributes in their own way - the artists, the fans, and the staff. Really special. 

His podcast called "Different Paths" explores the stories of creatives and gets deep into their journeys - he's had guests like Mikey Lion, Mary Droppinz, and Ravenscoon on thus far and I love the format. 

The 2025 SSBD lineup is going to be dropping soon so make sure to keep an eye out for the announcement. Brad says it's the biggest yet and as you can tell they go BIG so this will be a very special treat.

SITB 247 - Buildling Community w/ Brad Sweet

248 features an artist that I have over 50 tracks from and play at least 1 every set I perform. He goes by the name of BVRNOUT and if you aren't familiar with the name, I guarantee you've heard one of his remixes.

Chris has an amazing story and it was so much fun talking about his journey from day 1 through now. He is a prolific producer with an expertise in remixes but has now started focusing on originals and creating his own label-  BVRN'D Records - as a way to give himself a platform for his sound.

He's been supported by some of the biggest DJs in the world like Loud Luxury and his music has helped many artists go viral on social media when they play a BVRNOUT record. 

I really mean it when I say that without BVNROUT remixes, this scene would be a different place and I certainly wouldn't be where I am without his music.

SITB 248 - Becoming The Remix King w/ BVRNOUT

Episode 249 features Chicago based but Detroit rooted DJ Nanoos - a Palenstian Armenian DJ who is making a big splash in the scene.

We had an absolute blast sitting down in person and getting her full story and perspective on some hot topics in the industry right now. 

Nanoos is a real one on so many levels and there's good reason for his quick rise in following - she's a really good selector on the decks and fuses tons of different genres together in her sets creating one of a kind experiences for anyone who sees her. She's also got an insanely dope sense of fashion and charisma that had me hooked even before I met her. 

We chatted about the afro-house movement, the state of the scene in the US and what we think is to come, her tour that's taking her all over the country, and her plans for the future.

SITB 249 - Rep Your Roots w/ Nanoos

So you want to be a touring music artist?

This live panel in Denver Coloardo will give you some perspective on how to make that happen. 

Featuring founder of 128 Productions and Denver talent buyer, Alex Padgett, DJ/Producer/Podcast Host Lizzy Jane, and DJ/Producer Housewife.

This conversation goes into the realities on what it takes to go from a local DJ to a touring act and offers insights on how to get booked, build your brand, and create opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

-Why is it so hard to get gigs outside of the city you're based
-How to build a career when your hometown doesn't support you
-The strategy of representing your city while building elsewhere
-Maintaining your brand through genuine connections 
-How to make money on tour and how to protect yourself
-What talent buyers look for when booking artists
-Why relationships matter and how to build them

From Local To Global: How To Start a Touring Career

In September 2016 I started a journey that didn't have an end goal. 

I just wanted to do something that I would always enjoy and have no hesitation on consistency or passion. 

249 episodes later I've interviewed over 200 guests ranging from DJs, producers, agents, talent buyers, entrepreneurs, and more. 

The most rewarding part is the relationships and friendships that have come from SITB. There has been a lot of ups and downs but sitting here today I can say for certain that this is my calling. 

The biggest thing I've learned is that the podcast has to make me happy first. If it doesn't, then why would anyone else want to listen or watch? Just look at my smile throughout this interview.

Thank you to everyone that has supported me in any way, shape or form. Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me. Thank you to Olivia Mancuso for inspiring me and also keeping me on track during this interview... lol. 

Cheers to 250 episodes and here's to the future.

This is still just the beginning.

250 Podcast Episodes - A Major Milestone

He built a 10,000-person Santa-themed party… and that’s not even the craziest thing he’s done in the music industry. 

Today on SITB, Wes Berger—San Diego entrepreneur, event producer, and all-around legend—shares how he went from Chicagoland kid to running some of the wildest events in SoCal… and the insane stories that came with it.

This San Diego-based entrepreneur, talent buyer, label manager, event producer—and all-around solid dude— is a true legend. This guy’s done it all behind the scenes: from Santacon to Freedom Fest to Daisy Chain and Subsessions, Wes has built brands that pull serious crowds.

He’s originally from Chicagoland, and in this episode he shares how he took a massive leap to the West Coast, the wins, the struggles, and some crazy industry stories along the way.

You’ll also catch the dynamic between us—we’re longtime friends, which means plenty of roasting, plenty of laughs, and a lot of genuine insight into what it takes to thrive in this business.

Connection Beats Perfection w/ Wes Berger

What do sports media broadcasters and DJs have in common? A nonstop grind fueled by passion and a love of the game. 

That’s the thread running through today’s episode — and the crazy part is, this story starts in the same place. Tony East and I both grew up in Zionsville, walked the same high school halls, and chased completely different careers. 

He went all-in on sports media and became one of the go-to voices for the Pacers and Fever. I dove headfirst into music and built my path as a DJ and podcaster. Two different arenas, but the same mindset: hustle, resilience, and chasing the dream. 

And now, years later, we’re linking up full circle — recording this conversation on a back porch in Zionsville, right where it all began. This is a very special episode that I'm sure you will enjoy!

SITB 252 - Love For The Game feat. Tony East

Only in Chicago do you get a world-class pizza chef, his dad, and his grandpa — all talking family, legacy, and the culinary arts… all while Professor Pizza and I throw back Malört like it’s holy water.

This is just one of those episodes. I had the pleasure of sitting down with my guy Tony Scardino, aka Professor Pizza — a chef, creative, and hometown hero who’s turned his obsession with pizza into a legit culinary movement.

But here’s where it gets special — Tony’s family was in the city for his birthday so we decided to have his dad and grandpa join us. Three generations, one family, and enough stories to serve the whole restaurant.

So grab a slice, pour yourself something questionable, and enjoy one of the most fun and authentic convos I’ve ever had on the show.

SITB 253 - Carrying On A Legacy w/ Professor Pizza

From the Midwest to the heart of LA’s dance music industry—today we’re sitting with Ryan Roth, also known as Roy LaCroix and Driver405. 

He’s a DJ and producer who packed up from St. Louis, took a massive risk, and now works inside the world of Pioneer DJ—helping shape the future of AlphaTheta. 

We’re talking Midwest roots, house music obsession, and how he’s working to elevate what DJs and fans experience everywhere. 

This was a really fun episode and I'm so excited to share.

Let's go!

SITB 254 - Make Your Own Destiny with Roy LaCroix

Episode 049
8/27/18
Feat. Be Nice Collective

In The Booth 049 - feat. Be Nice Collective

In The Booth 076 feat. Orville Kline

Live at Concord Music Hall
Chicago, IL 
10/25/2019

Live at Concord (Opening Set for Shiba San and Walker & Royce)

This is hands down one of the most informational interviews I've ever done. Episode 109 features Evan Price - founder of Artist Collective, artist manager, music business savant, and overall great dude. 

I learned SO much from Evan in this interview - we covered the bases and discussed his business Artist Collective(music consulting company), how to find your "super fans", building a brand that lasts, and how to plan ahead. 

If you are in the music industry and want to learn more about the business side, this is the guy to ask - powerful stuff. Thanks for coming on Evan!

In The Booth 109 feat. Evan Price

Back again with another brand new #SITB!

Episode 110 features @deeprootrecords Label Head @djfrancismercier - a multifaceted DJ, Music Producer, and label head. 

This was such a fun interview - we went deep and discussed his early musical inspirations, his journey as DJ in NYC, his label Deep Root Records, and the experiences he's had as a house DJ performing with the likes of Gorgon City, Lost Frequencies, and Claptone.

Francis is one of the driving forces in NYC House Music and is only just getting started. Make sure to check out his new underground moniker @Emvafaya as well as his live series w/ @deeprootsessions in partnership with the Grammy's @musicares & @radiofgofficiel - thanks for coming on Francis!

In The Booth 110 feat. Francis Mercier

We are back with another brand new #SITB! 

Episode 113 features the SoCal stud @chrisdiazmusic - although he is young in the game, he has over a decade of experience in the industry and has been building his brand and honing in on his sound.

In this interview we discussed the differences in music culture from cities all over the world, his production style/influences, and how he thinks 2020 and beyond will play out for the music industry. 

I really enjoyed hearing his story and I guarantee you will too - this guy is too much fun. Thanks for making some time Mr. Diaz!

In The Booth 113 feat. Chris Diaz

Hey what's up and thanks for checking out my podcast "Sherm In The Booth"! 
My name is Sherm and I'm a DJ, Producer, Podcast Host, Artist Manager and Event Curator based in Chicago, IL 

Every Wednesday, I feature exclusive interviews from talented artists in the music industry and discuss their early inspirations and influences, discographies, live show experiences,  successes and failures, and goals for the future. 
This is your one stop shop for everything electronic music. 

Now, let's get In The Booth

What is Sherm In The Booth?

In the world of dance music, where creativity and innovation converge, Sherm has emerged as a prominent figure. With an insatiable passion for music and an uncanny ability to dissect and articulate the intricacies of artists, Sherm has carved a niche for himself as a leading podcaster in the music industry.

Based in Chicago, Sherm quickly developed an appreciation and admiration for house music. Building his name in a city where house was born, his journey into electronic music has been one built on a genuine curiosity to learn and collaborate with industry peers and icons. His passion for dance music and educational background in media production ignited a spark that would eventually lead him down an extraordinary path to start a podcast.

With a thirst for knowledge on what it takes to make it in the music industry, Sherm launched Sherm In The Booth in 2017 and began interviewing local talent. This relentless pursuit of stories of success and failure laid the groundwork for what makes SITB so special. He spent countless hours honing his interview skills, improving his content, and delving deep into the history of each guest to create a unique experience for them and the listener.

Sherm In The Booth became known for its insightful interviews with prominent figures in the electronic music industry, where Sherm skillfully navigated conversations about music production techniques, industry trends, and the the past, present, and future of electronic music. Sherm's ability to connect with both artists and listeners through candid and engaging discussions set the podcast apart.

Over the years, Sherm has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between artists and fans in the electronic music community. His dedication to promoting emerging talent and shedding light on the genre's rich history, has fostered a sense of unity and appreciation within the electronic music world.

Through Sherm In The Booth, Sherm has built a legacy of knowledge sharing and musical exploration. His impact on the electronic music scene goes beyond the digital airwaves, as he continues to curate live events, collaborate with artists, and contribute to the growth of the genre he holds dear.

As Sherm continues to harmonize soundscapes and inspire countless others, his story remains a source of inspiration for all who share their love for electronic music.

Popular tracks by Sherm In The Booth