Chicago's hip-hop record label Closed Sessions turns 15
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Chicago hip-hop artist Femdot performs in Brooklyn in 2019. Photo: Johnny Nunez/WireImage
Keeping any Chicago business afloat for 15 years is tough, but keeping an independent hip-hop record label going strong is almost miraculous.
The big picture: Closed Sessions is celebrating its anniversary with a big show Thursday night at the Avondale Music Hall.
- The label, co-founded by Alexander "DJ RTC" Fruchter and Michael Kolar, has signed, developed and nurtured such artists as Jamila Woods, Femdot, Boathouse and Kweku Collins, just to name a few.
What they're saying: "Running Closed Sessions is almost like breathing to me at this point," Fruchter tells Axios.
- "I'm thankful to make it 15 years and still be functioning at a high level."
Between the lines: Running an independent music label is tougher than it ever has been as more artists are producing their own music and using social media to promote.
- "It has been incredibly difficult with the changing music industry," Fruchter says. "It's the way people consume music, the daily grind, the financial challenges and just how exhausting it is. Yet for some reason or another, I keep pushing this boulder up the hill because I simply love Chicago hip-hop."
If you go: DJ Muggs will headline Thursday's 15-year-anniversary show with several Closed Sessions acts also on the bill. Doors open at 7pm at the Avondale Music Hall. $30.