This week's guest is Beatdown Sound, the powerhouse duo bringing authentic Jamaican-style sound system culture to the Midwest. Chef Chux and Selectress Kinky P break down their journey from discovering dub and reggae at legendary events like Notting Hill Carnival to building their own handcrafted five-way speaker system, engineered for deep, immersive bass. They share insights into the roots of dub, the influence of icons like King Tubby and Lee “Scratch” Perry, and why their sessions are more than just parties—they’re a movement.

From curating intimate, high-energy events on Chicago’s South Side to serving up homemade patties and espresso at their shows, Beatdown Sound is redefining what a sound system experience can be. Whether you’re a reggae enthusiast, a bass lover, or just curious about the culture behind dub music, this episode is packed with knowledge, passion, and plenty of bass therapy.

📌 Support the Podcast: Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the music industry! 

🔗 Links & Credits
Listen to Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poducerpodcast

Connect with Beatdown Sound
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beatdown_soundsystem/
Selectress Kinky P on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selectresskinkyp/
Chef Chux on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefchux/

Chapter:
00:00 - Intro
02:03 - First Concert Experiences: From Tribe Called Quest to Baja Punk  
03:59 - Discovering Dub & Sound System Culture  
05:13 - The Influence of Notting Hill Carnival  
09:20 - Why Sound System Music is a Spiritual Experience  
11:04 - The Moment They Decided to Build a Sound System  
13:55 - The Origins of Dub Music & Sound System Culture  
17:05 - How Jamaican Sound Systems Changed Music History  
20:05 - What Are Dubplates & Why Are They So Exclusive?  
23:41 - The Anatomy of a Traditional Sound System  
25:18 - The Role of the Selector vs. The Operator  
29:30 - Dub Sirens & Their Unique Role in Sound System Culture  
32:07 - How Dub Sets Are Different from DJ Sets  
35:37 - The Connection Between House Music, Hip-Hop & Dub  
39:47 - Why Jamaica Doesn’t Have Many Dub Sessions Today  
43:01 - The Difference Between Roots, Dub, and Dancehall 
47:41 - The Story Behind Beatdown Sound’s Name  
50:42 - How Beatdown Sound’s Founders Met  
54:58 - Running a Sound System: The Challenges & Rewards  
58:54 - Why They Serve Food at Their Events  
1:03:54 - Chef Chux Life as a Private Chef  
1:08:52 - Future Goals for Beatdown Sound & Growing the Scene  
1:14:55 - Lessons Learned from Running a Sound System  
1:17:53 - Chicago vs. Other Sound System Scenes Worldwide  
1:23:14 - The Rise of Sound System Culture in the U.S. & Mexico  
1:32:48 - Best Documentaries & Resources for Dub & Reggae  
1:34:39 - Sound System Bass Therapy & Vibration Healing  
1:46:43 - How a Sound System Experience Can Change Your Life  
1:52:44 - Playing Near the Pyramids & Crazy Travel Stories  
1:58:02 - Shoutouts & Final Thoughts  
1:59:46 - Where to Find Beatdown Sound & Upcoming Events

Beatdown Sound System: Dub History, Sirens, Bass Therapy, Roots Reggae

In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Chicago-based producer Chez (pronounced “cheese”) for a fun and thoughtful conversation about music, identity, and community. Chez reflects on his first NSW show, overcoming nerves, and developing a sound that blends humor with serious musicality—drawing inspiration from Frank Zappa, Tim & Eric, and glitch-hop staples like Tipper & KOAN Sound.

We explore the role of creative communities, Chez’s approach to sound design, and his upcoming move into a producer house in D.C. The episode also dives into wild merch ideas (cheesehead hats, berets), and what sets the “Two Guys” project apart from a typical B2B. Later, we unpack AI in music, rediscovering the magic of live bands.

Links:
Listen to Chez: https://soundcloud.com/chez_muzik
Follow Chez: https://www.instagram.com/chez.music/
Follow NSW: https://www.instagram.com/nsw_presents/
Poducer IG: https://www.instagram.com/poducerpodcast/
More: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro & Welcome: Chez or Cheese?
01:43 - Early Shows & Venue Experiences
08:07 - Musical Humor & Inspirations: Zappa, Anime, and Comedy
16:11 - Discord Life & Creative Community
24:25 - Track Showcase: "Monsters Inc Flip"
27:42 - Genre Exploration & Sound Design Insights
35:14 - Producer Life: Moving to DC & Collaborations
40:23 - Festival Talk: Summer Camp & Infrasound Experiences
49:09 - Navigating Impostor Syndrome & Networking
57:01 - Shoutouts & Upcoming Collaborations
1:00:01 - Patreon & Paid Content Considerations
1:06:26 - The Origin & Evolution of "Chez"
1:15:56 - Merch Ideas & Creative Branding
1:24:12 - Track Showcase: "F*** Turkeys"
1:27:15 - Upcoming EP & New Music Projects
1:34:06 - Wild Concert Experiences & Anklepants
1:38:19 - AI in Music: Funny Experiments & Ethical Thoughts
1:48:54 - The Magic and Mystery of Music Creation
1:53:40 - Closing Reflections & Game-Changing Concert (King Gizzard)
2:00:46 - Final Thoughts, Shoutouts & Where to Find Chez
2:02:55 - Outro & Podcast Promotion

Watch Video

NSW x Poducer EP 3: Chez — Humor, Identity & Glitch-Hop Vibes

In this episode of Poducer, we link up with the all:Lo Collective — a genre-blurring crew of artists pushing the soulful edge of electronic and hip-hop fusion. TF Marz, parkbreezy, Pheel, and Joe from NSW sit down to share the story of how all:Lo started as a bedroom project between roommates working at The Black Box and grew into a nationwide collective curating a unique low-frequency, lo-fi sound.

We dive into their early influences (from Madlib to Cord Marauders and Soulection), the art of instrumental storytelling, and the creative ethos behind their legendary “Morning Coffee” mix series. They also break down side projects like Hoodie Weather and Groove Sauce, and reflect on formative live shows — from Shambhala to Tipper & Friends.

Links:
Follow all:Lo: https://www.all-lo.com
Follow NSW: https://www.nswpresents.com/
Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

NSW x Poducer EP 5: all:Lo Collective — Lo-Fi Frequencies, Soulful Storytelling

The debaucherous, high-energy legacy of Porn and Chicken — a legendary Monday night party that turned into a movement. From its humble beginnings at Risqué Café with all-you-can-eat wings, vintage porn screenings, and DIY DJ sets, to its explosive evolution at Evil Olive and The Mid, P&C reshaped Chicago nightlife.

🎧 Watch the full episode: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1

Links:
Follow Orville Kline: https://orvillekline.squarespace.com/
Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

The Wild Story Behind Porn & Chicken

In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Artie Do Good — a genre-bending producer, trombonist, educator, and storyteller who fuses live jazz instrumentation with electronic music and deeply rooted political themes.

From his early days throwing ska shows in Kenosha to composing orchestral works in NYC, Artie walks us through his evolution as an artist, educator, and community builder. We dig into the influence of Chicago’s DIY scene, the impact of labor movements and socialist philosophy on his music, and the creative process behind his powerful album Socialist Dance Party.

We also explore the intersection of soulful composition and beat production, his dual life as a teacher and performer, and the growing movement of emotionally intelligent masculinity (aka himboism). Plus, he shares unreleased tracks, stories of musical mentorship, and memories of transformative shows like D’Angelo at Afropunk.

Links:
🎶 Follow Artie Do Good: https://www.instagram.com/artiedogood
💿 Listen on Bandcamp: https://artiedogood.bandcamp.com
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

artie do good: Socialist Dance Party, Himboism, Live Jazz Fusion & Teaching with Heart

In this collaboration episode of Poducer with NSW, we connect with genre-warping UK producer Sam Binga — known for pushing the boundaries of club music with raw textures, cheeky edits, and forward-thinking sound design. From his early days in Bristol’s drum & bass scene to becoming a global force in hybrid electronic music, Binga shares the creative mindset and community ethos that have shaped his path.

We dig into his evolution as an artist, his approach to collaboration (with names like Nikki Nair, Addison Groove, and Bianca Oblivion), and why he's more interested in vibe than perfection. Binga talks honestly about the current state of gig culture, the pressure of staying relevant on social media, and how he balances underground respect with broader recognition. He also shares the story behind Pineapple Records, his outlet for fun, functional, and distinctly weird club tools — and how it’s become a space for artists to explore sound without overthinking.

🎧 Listen to Sam Binga: https://sambinga.bandcamp.com
💿 Listen to Pineapple Records: https://pineapplerecords.bandcamp.com/
📲 Follow Sam Binga: https://www.instagram.com/sambingamusic
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

NSW x Poducer Ep: 6 Sam Binga — Bristol Roots, DIY Spirit & the Future of Club Music

Artie Do Good dives into the philosophy of himboism, exploring the rise of emotionally intelligent masculinity in modern culture. From Dragon Ball Z's Goku to Chris Hemsworth’s Thor, we break down the core traits of the modern himbo: strength, kindness, and a blissful lack of ego.

Artie shares how working with kids in the age of Andrew Tate has influenced his perspective on masculinity, and why he’s embracing the “himbo” identity as a way to promote compassion, vulnerability, and self-awareness. We also touch on the need to shatter outdated gender norms, and how big-hearted energy just might help save the world.

Links:
🎶 Follow Artie Do Good: https://www.instagram.com/artiedogood
💿 Listen on Bandcamp: https://artiedogood.bandcamp.com
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Himboism Explained: Emotionally Intelligent Masculinity

In this live episode of Poducer, recorded at Summer’s End Smokeout, we sit down with Joe Nice — a pioneering figure often credited with bringing Dubstep to the United States. From launching the legendary Dub War parties in New York to shaping the global spread of the genre, Joe has been at the heart of underground culture for nearly two decades.

We dive into his journey as a tastemaker, his thoughts on the modern expectation for DJs to also be producers, and how he stays grounded through organization, sobriety, and a commitment to mental health. Joe also speaks on the responsibility of artists to use their platform for advocacy, his favorite sound systems around the world, and why unionization could be the future of fair treatment in electronic music.

🔥 Whether you’re a longtime Dubstep head or just discovering the roots of the scene, this conversation is packed with history, honesty, and perspective from one of the culture’s most respected voices.

📲 Follow Joe Nice: https://www.instagram.com/joenicedj
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction at Summer’s End Smokeout
00:20 – Joe Nice & the origins of Dub War
04:09 – DJ vs Producer: changing expectations in electronic music
07:16 – Mental health, energy, and preparation on tour
12:34 – Sobriety, veganism & living with balance
13:40 – Advocacy, activism & using your platform responsibly
18:10 – Sound system culture & community through music and food
22:13 – Unionization & fair treatment for DJs and artists
25:11 – Closing thoughts & gratitude

The Podcast for Producers

Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Joe Nice (Live)

In this episode of Poducer, recorded live at Summer’s End Smokeout, we sit down with Manic Focus. The genre-bending producer who has built a reputation on soulful beats, heavy grooves, and an unfiltered approach to storytelling through music.

From his first concert memories to the dynamics of working with his brother as both manager and creative partner, Manic Focus opens up about the honesty, trust, and tension that shape his art. We dive into his unique production style, how he avoids chasing trends by designing sounds with swing and swagger, and the lessons he’s learned from years of performing on stage.

He also speaks candidly about living with bipolar I, how music serves as his medicine, and why being open about mental health matters not only for himself but for the wider community of fans and artists. Along the way, we touch on his biggest live inspirations, creative rituals, and what it means to keep growing while staying true to your sound.

🎧 Listen to Manic Focus: https://manicfocus.com
📲 Follow Manic Focus: https://www.instagram.com/manicfocus
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Chapters:
00:00 – First Concert Memories (Pretenders & B-52s)
01:12 – Working With His Brother as Manager
04:23 – Early Inspirations & Making Beats
05:42 – Sound Design, Wobbles, and Avoiding Trends
10:41 – Music, Mental Health & Bipolar I Journey
12:40 – Game-Changing Concert: Moby’s Play Tour

Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Manic Focus

In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Charlie Heldman — Chicago-based artist, producer, and founder of Windy City Wavs, a grassroots music production collective dedicated to building community, fostering creativity, and supporting independent artists.

Charlie opens up about his journey from his early teenage band days to developing his own R&B-inspired sound — blending sweet lyrics with soulful, sexy beats. We explore his approach to growth as an artist, the role of collaboration in shaping his music, and how consistency and community feedback have fueled his development.

Beyond music, Charlie shares his perspective as a studying therapist, reflecting on mental health, empathy, and the importance of creating safe spaces for expression. He talks candidly about navigating self-doubt, learning to shift negative self-talk, and balancing passion with purpose.

📲 Follow Charlie Heldman: https://www.instagram.com/cbbeatsofficial/
🌊 Learn more about Windy City Waves: https://www.instagram.com/windycitywaves/
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Charlie Heldman: Building Community, Creating R&B Vibes & Finding Balance

The Podcast for Producers



Watch on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1

Art by: www.henryfeldman.com

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