Chicago-based artist Sherm embodies the vibrant spirit of house music culture while juggling multiple roles in the electronic music industry. Since 2014, his journey has evolved from DJ to tastemaker, making his mark through his work as a producer, A&R executive, and podcast host.
Photo credit: Sherm – Facebook
His magnetic presence behind the decks has earned him spots alongside artists like Armin Van Buuren, John Summit, and Galantis, while his performances at North Coast Festival and Amsterdam Dance Event showcase his ability to move crowds. As A&R for Hood Politics Records, Sherm shapes the label’s trajectory by working with chart-topping artists and discovering emerging talent.
Beyond the booth, Sherm’s ‘Sherm In The Booth’ podcast has become a cornerstone of electronic music conversation, featuring over 200 episodes with renowned artists. His latest venture, Chicago Music Nexus, reflects his commitment to fostering community and education within the industry.
Fresh off the release of his new single ‘Jet Life’—a collaboration with Smith & Sorren that playfully captures the essence of life as a touring DJ—Sherm sat down with EG to discuss his creative process, the influence of Chicago’s house music legacy, and his mission to create meaningful connections in the electronic music community.
EG: Hi Sherm, welcome to EG! We’re excited to have you with us today. Can you tell us where you’re currently based?
Sherm: The home of house music baby, Chicago!
EG: Congratulations on your new single ‘Jet Life’ with Smith & Sorren! What inspired the aviation theme and how did this collaboration come about?
Sherm: As touring DJs, we travel so much and have to get used to the highs and lows of everything that comes with it. At the end of the day, we have the best job in the world and there’s nothing more exciting than when you prepare for landing. The party is starting soon!
EG: The track opens with a flight attendant’s announcement. How did you come up with incorporating that playful sample, and what does it symbolize for you as an artist constantly on the move?
Sherm: Yes, you got it—somehow flight attendants basically all sound the same on that microphone too, so it worked out perfectly.
EG: You mentioned hearing the stewardess’s voice in your dreams due to hectic travel schedules. How has life on the road influenced your music and creativity?
Sherm: It is very difficult to maintain high levels of creativity when you travel so much. I try to find inspiration from my surroundings and thought of the idea while on a plane! Sometimes it’s right under your nose.
“At the end of the day, we have the best job in the world and there’s nothing more exciting than when you prepare for landing”
EG: Working with Smith & Sorren seems like a natural fit. How did your styles blend together in creating ‘Jet Life,’ and what was the collaborative process like?
Sherm: Brandon and Joe are incredibly talented and driven producers. They are always wanting to raise the bar and that energy resonates deeply with me. We’ve been fans of house music for over 10 years and we wanted to bring back those massive rolling basslines from the early Solardo and Detlef days. Match made in heaven!
EG: You’ve been active in Chicago’s music scene and have performed at major stages like North Coast Music Festival. How does the energy of Chicago influence your sound and career trajectory?
Sherm: It’s everything to me. It’s the 40th anniversary for House Music and so much has happened during this short period of time. I’m heavily influenced not just by the sounds of Chicago House, but the message and culture overall. House is for all and it’s a feeling.
EG: Beyond producing music, you host the ‘Sherm in the Booth’ podcast, co-created Chicago Music Nexus, and recently moderated a panel for John Summit. How do you balance these multiple roles, and how do they complement each other?
Sherm: I just let my passions lead the way—having conversations with peers in music is so meaningful to me and other artists. We have to share our stories of success and failure so we can all help each other make our dreams come true. I continue to push myself and go outside of my comfort zone to see what I’m capable of—sky is the limit!
EG: You’re also gearing up for the inaugural Chicago Music Nexus event with Olivia Mancuso. What motivated you to create this platform for artists and industry leaders, and what impact do you hope it will have?
Sherm: It has been a year of non-stop planning but it’s something that we believe is truly needed for the industry to move forward—particularly in the US. The impact will be immediate but we wouldn’t have started CMN if it wasn’t to create a better path forward long-term for artists and music industry professionals. We wanted to create a space for people to learn, grow and collaborate with each other. It’s a very special thing we’re starting.
“The tools will always continue to change and evolve; you just have to be genuine in how you tell your story”
EG: Technology and social media have changed how artists connect with fans. How do you utilize these tools to engage your audience and build your brand?
Sherm: The tools will always continue to change and evolve; you just have to be genuine in how you tell your story. Regardless of online trends or new tech, I hit the STREETS and market myself. People want to see who you really are and that is what real influence is. Followers mean nothing if they don’t know who you are and what you care about.
EG: With such a busy schedule wearing many hats, what keeps you motivated and inspired to continue pushing boundaries in your career?
Sherm: My community that I’m surrounded by. I have so many supporters that come in different ways. These are the people that keep me motivated and always wanting to give more. It’s always a two-way street if you make it that way!
EG: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the music industry, especially when it comes to balancing multiple passions like you do?
Sherm: Find a way to tell your story in a way that you are comfortable with long-term. It truly is the journey and you have to show up every single day as an artist—not just for others, but for yourself. Don’t ever forget why you got into this. Don’t forget your “why.”
Sherm’s ‘Jet Life’ is now available on LOW CEILING. Stream and download here.
Follow Sherm: Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram | Facebook
