Farley Jackmaster Funk

Farley ‘Jackmaster’ Funk established his foundational influence on the Chicago house music scene in 1981, beginning his career as an original member of the Hot Mix 5, a prominent DJ team at WBMX-FM 102.7 FM in Oak Park, Illinois. During this formative period, he served as a guest DJ at the legendary Warehouse nightclub and held a residency at The Playground, which later became the Candy Store. These early engagements allowed him to develop his distinctive DJing style, integrating disco, funk, and electronic sounds, which was crucial to the emerging Chicago house sound. In 1985, Farley co-founded House Records with Chip E., releasing ‘Jack Trax’ by Mirage & Chip E.

as the label’s inaugural project. His own debut single, ‘Aw Shucks (Let’s Go Let’s Go),’ followed later that year as the second release, alongside ‘Funkin with the Drums.’ Farley’s influence deepened with releases on Trax Records, including ‘Jack the Bass’ in 1985, a pivotal track that contributed significantly to the popular ‘jacking’ dance craze within Chicago house culture. In 1986, he released ‘Give Yourself to Me,’ featuring vocals from Kevin ‘Jack N House’ Irving and gospel singer Ricky Dillard. A major international breakthrough occurred later in 1986 with ‘Love Can’t Turn Around,’ a collaboration with Jesse Saunders and vocalist Darryl Pandy, which impressively reached number 10 in the UK Singles Chart.

Demonstrating his commitment to preserving the genre’s heritage, he is actively involved in initiatives such as the planned House Music Museum and Hall of Fame, and played a key role in the establishment of House Music Month in August.