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As most of you know, our brother in House music, Jesse Saunders suffered a severe stroke in November of 2022. Since then, he has been hospitalized, then in rehab, non-vocal, getting fed through a tube, his walk staggers, and he had been trying to get back to some semblance of normalcy. Just recently, his health took a turn for the worse and he collapsed on the kitchen floor where he lives. His blood sugar and blood pressure were both dangerously off the charts. Right now, Jesse needs our help in a big way. He is NOT in a good place–he cannot afford the care he needs in the rehab facility and is at risk of being released without further help. This is an URGENT matter, as he will be evicted from the care facility by the end of this month, if we cannot get him the funds to maintain his care. Let’s all step up to get him the care he needs.
“Team Jesse” is supporting this cause, which includes: His brother DJ Wayne Williams, his Chosen Few brothers Alan King, Tony Hatchett, Andre Hatchett, Terry Hunter, and Mike Dunn. DJs Chip E, Joe Smooth, Maurice Joshua, Eric Esmoove Miller, Steve Silk Hurley, Farley Jackmaster Funk, Eric ET Taylor, Lori Branch, Celeste Alexander, Dee Jay Alicia, G Whip, Greg Winfield, DJ Spen, Hans Cherry, Reggie Corner, Angie Tee, and the list is growing from around the world.
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Jesse’s history
• Considered one of the founding fathers of House music, Jesse released the first commercially available House record, “On & On” (1984) with Vince Lawrence.
• Instrumental in shaping the early sound of Chicago House with its raw, minimalist style and use of the Roland TR-808 drum machine.
• Renowned DJ, playing at Chicago’s legendary warehouse parties in the 1980s and continuing to perform globally today.
• Prolific producer, releasing numerous solo albums and singles, along with remixes and collaborations with other artists.
• Founded multiple record labels, including his own imprint, Jes-Say Records, and worked extensively in music and film production.
• Author of the book “House Music… The Real Story” (2008).
Early Life and Influences:
Jesse Saunders was born and raised on the south side of Chicago. He developed a love for music at a young age, inspired by R&B, soul, and disco. By 15, he started DJing at parties and clubs, later becoming a resident DJ at the iconic Playground venue.
Birth of House Music:
In the early 1980s, Saunders, along with Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy, experimented with combining disco, electro, and European synth music, crafting a new sound that would become known as House. Saunders’ “On & On” became a defining track of the genre, sparking its growth and popularity.
Career Highlights:
Throughout his career, Saunders has released several influential albums and singles, including “Love on Mars” (1984), “Can’t Turn Back” (1988), and “The Funk Phenomena” (1993). He has collaborated with artists like Larry Heard, Marshall Jefferson, and Robert Owens, and remixed tracks for Madonna, Kylie Minogue, and others.
Beyond Music:
Beyond being a musical pioneer, Saunders has been involved in various ventures. He founded record labels, worked in film production, and served as a voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. His book, “House Music… The Real Story,” chronicles the genre’s early days and his own contributions.
Legacy:
As a member of the Chosen Few DJs, Jesse Saunders is revered as a true legend in the world of House music. His innovative spirit, technical skills, and dedication to the genre have left a lasting impact. He continues to inspire DJs, producers, and music lovers worldwide.
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.