On July 18, legendary producer Pete Rock was in Chicago to take part in Closed Session’s “Legend Conversation.” Held at the new Ramova Theatre, “Legend Conversation” features discussions with luminaries who have forged a legacy of greatness in their field and continue to make an impact. Previous “Legend Conversations” have featured Jazzy Jeff, Raekwon The Chef, Clark Kent, and Alchemist.
Dave Jeff and DJ RTC are the hosts of “Legend Conversation.” During the early part of the conversation, Pete Rock shared that music has always been a part of his life since the moment his parents brought records home. Rock learned how to DJ at the age of seven and was in a group called The Classy Rock Crew. He credits his cousin Floyd as the person who taught him how to DJ. Over the years, Rock has collected over 175 thousand records that he stores in three different houses. He also mentioned his affinity for Chicago and how he would fly to Chicago to dig for records at Dr. Wax, which was once located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago.
Pete Rock explained his love for James Brown and John Coltrane helped to inform his production style and the types of samples he uses. He also mentioned he knows a record is done when it moves his soul.
Pete Rock just released an album with Chicago award-winning rapper Common called The Auditorium Vol. 1 that has earned high praise in the music world.
The funniest moment of the conversation was when Rock mentioned that New York pizza was better than Chicago’s, and all his loving Chicago fans filled the room with groans while offering up places he should visit. It was a lighthearted moment that demonstrated the value of the “Legend Conversation” and how fans who attend can learn more about their favorite artists.
Take a look at a few pictures from the event in the gallery below.
