ABOUT ME
Chris Lara — Chicago DJ, Curator, Radio Host, and House Music Community Advocate
Chris Lara is a Chicago DJ whose versatile sets have graced a wide range of events and venues throughout the city, including celebrated spaces and events such as Smartbar and Brunchski. Behind the decks, Chris blends House and Hip-Hop while staying deeply connected to the musical culture that shaped him.
A proud member of DMC Entertainment, Chris co-hosts monthly House Music events that celebrate the genre’s rich history while connecting Chicagoans to its evolving future. He is also a member of Undaground Element, a Chicago House Music institution with a 30-year legacy of producing community-driven events, festivals, and experiences featuring local and internationally recognized talent. Chris is also a member of DaBooth312 Radio, broadcasting weekly on WIIT 88.9 FM.
As founder and host of the Chicago House Scene Radio Show, Chris shares inspirational stories from Chicago DJs and producers, including Shmoo and DSC, while strengthening connections within the community through music and storytelling. He previously served as co-chair of House of Sol, the House Music DJ stage at the annual Fiesta del Sol, one of the Midwest’s largest Latino festivals. He is also a former member of SoulJack Digital, a Chicago-based record label, as well and Puppet Master DJz, a DJ collective.
Chris continues to expand his presence within Chicago’s House Music community and beyond. This year, an opportunity was given to be part of the Chicago House Music Festival & Conference, the City of Chicago’s four-day celebration of the music, culture, and community that helped make House Music a global movement. The festival brings together generations of artists, DJs, industry voices, and House Music lovers from Chicago and around the world. Previously, Chris took his passion for House Music international, DJing at Mi Casa Holiday in Cuba, an important milestone in his journey that brought the soulful sounds and spirit of Chicago House to an international stage. He has also participated as a discussion panelist for the Latinos In Da House Conference, contributing to conversations that highlight the influence, history, and ongoing impact of Latino artists and voices within Chicago House Music.
Growing up in Chicago’s vibrant Pilsen neighborhood, Chris was immersed in music from an early age, collecting DJ mixtapes featuring the pioneering sounds of Farley “Jackmaster” Funk, Frankie Knuckles, Cajmere, DJ Sneak, CZR, Chip E., Paul Johnson, and many others. Inspired by these trailblazers, what began as a personal passion evolved into his own journey behind the decks.
With a deep love for House and Hip-Hop, Chris approaches every set with an appreciation for the past and an ear toward what comes next. His selections reflect a commitment to bringing people together across generations, genres, and backgrounds.
Whether performing at Chicago staples or international destinations, Chris Lara’s sets are an invitation to dance, connect, and celebrate the culture that continues to make Chicago one of the world’s great music cities. Follow Chris on social media for upcoming performances, events, and projects.
