From partying on Soldier Field for Spring Awakening to chilling at Grant Park for Lollapalooza, Chicagoans are pretty lucky when it comes to festivals, as well as music in general. Freaky Deaky is no exception. Sure, there are Halloween events all over the country this year, but only a select few can say they have a line-up that is this diverse while also pleasing the crowd with big names such as Bassnectar, 2 Chainz, and Armin Van Buuren. With everything from heavy dubstep to hip hop to electro funk on the bill this year, how do you choose which acts to see? Here is a guide to 5 sets you don’t want to miss at Freaky Deaky this year.
Oliver Heldens
Whether you’re raging with the squad or partying with your boyfriend, you’re going to have a hell of a time at an Oliver Heldens show. This Dutch DJ knows how to hit you right in the feels. This is a set that will connect the crowd like no other. All the big names in house music have definitely taken notice, as this guy has collaborated with countless artists; everyone from Tiesto to Zed’s Dead. He knows how to give the house heads what we crave, from female vocals that can be dramatically sung along to, with funky, fast-paced beats that will dare you to stand still. Get ready to get sweaty with this one! Catch him on Friday October 30th on The Shrine Stage from 8:10-9:10pm.
TOKiMONSTA
If you’re more into a chill vibe, Los Angeles’ TOKiMONSTA is your go-to girl. Taking her classical training and love of hip hop and turning it into something laid back yet magical and out of the ordinary, you’ll instantly be enthralled. She started her musical journey with piano lessons and the influence shows on her melodic tracks, perfect for hip hop heads and lovers of Indie Electronica alike. The first female on Flying Lotus’ label Brainfeeder, she has proven that she can play with the big boys. She is extremely talented, dabbling in side projects, while still turning out tunes like hot cakes. We’ll also most likely get to experience some new music, since she has an album coming out November 9th. Catch her on Friday October 30th on The Shrine Stage from 4-5pm.
GRiZ
Freaky Deaky is bringing it with the funk this year. Here in Chicago, we have an energy that is insane, especially when it comes to live music, and have I mentioned WE LOVE TO DANCE! Nothing brings the feel good vibes of a festival like some future funk, and Michigan born GRiZ is at the top of his class. His production skills, as well as his talent on the saxophone, can only be matched by very few. This guy knows how to get the crowd moving! It’s something fun and different from a lot of what makes up the electronic music scene. He blends futuristic sounds with soul and jazz and believe me, you won’t be able to get enough of his sound. Get ready for your next obsession and catch him on Friday October 30th on The Shrine Stage from 7:10-8:10pm.
Joey Bada$$
If hip hop is what you’re into, don’t miss Joey Bada$$. He’s more about telling a story through lyrics then rapping about partying with “big booty hoe’s” (sorry 2 Chainz). A conscious Brooklyn born rapper, this guy is on his way to becoming one of the greats. His style is a little rough around the edges and he is not afraid to show the dark side of this world. Joey is grimy and real and his talent is so impressive that he can vibe with any background beat from any genre, from electro to dancehall. You can tell by his flows that he has a background in poetry and can give us more than just a party track that will be old news by next year. Catch him on Saturday October 31st on The Big Top Stage from 6-7pm.
Midnight Conspiracy
Don’t forget to show these Chicago favorites some love! Their show production is off the charts as they bring you along on a journey that you won’t forget. Some of the best shows I’ve been to in Chitown have been MidCon shows. The music will hit you hard, so get your bass face ready for this one. You won’t even miss the laser light shows (but seriously, check them out at night or indoors! Their lights are on point.) since they play in the day. Whether you’re there for the dubstep or their take on Ginuwine’s “Pony”, you will be in for a treat. New music from these guys will also be evident, seeing as they drop a new album on Oct. 30th. Are you ready to be inducted into the Midnight Conspiracy? See them on Sunday, November 1st on The Big Top Stage from 350-450pm.
Wondering who else to catch? Take a listen to our Freaky Deaky 2015 playlist, showcasing the latest and greatest songs by all of the artists playing at this years festival!
