DJ Seth Breezy returns to
Hydrate Nightclub on Saturday night, April 26, for the first time since last August.
Breezy, 35, with 12 years of DJing experience, is thrilled for his return to Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood.
“Hydrate is one of those rare clubs where I feel completely free to be myself. The crowd really loves house music, and they give me the space to explore and get creative with my sets,” said Breezy, who lives in Atlanta. “The last time I played (in Chicago) was on the main stage outside during (the 2024 Northalsted) Market Days. That gig was really special to me. I remember being a baby DJ years ago, watching that very stage and thinking, ‘Man, I’d love to play there one day.’
“I have so much love for the Chicago (circuit) crowd. They know their music, and they’ll let you know if you’re killing it—or not. They’re sharp, passionate and they really stay up-to-date with what’s hot.”
Breezy brings big energy to the dancefloor, and promises a tom of new music.
“I’ve been in the studio nonstop the past few months and can’t wait to debut some new remixes. Lately, I’ve found a sweet spot blending early 2000s hip-hop and R&B vocals with high-energy house—it’s fire,” he said. “I aim to bring fresh original productions to every set, and Chicago’s crowd deserves nothing less.
“Chicago holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been playing at Hydrate for almost eight years, and the friends and support I’ve gained here mean the world to me. I’m so grateful for the love I receive every time I come back. Chicago taught me to push my limits. The crowd here wants to hear something different and encourages DJs to break the mold, especially when it comes to what’s considered the typical ‘gay club sound.’”
Breezy’s first venture into the DJ world came at the legendary Heretic in Atlanta in 2013. He also co-produced the event, though admittedly he was incredibly nervous. “I don’t think I looked up from the decks all night,” he said, laughing.
“(I was) born and raised in Atlanta, and I used to sneak into the gay clubs just to dance. (When) I heard the late Peter Rauhofer play at Jungle, everything clicked. I remember thinking, ‘This is what I want to do with my life.’”
Breezy is now a resident DJ at Eagle Wilton Manors (Fort Lauderdale) and Hydrate Chicago.
“I’d say I’m a punchy DJ. I love using effects to add emphasis to transitions and always use looping creatively throughout my sets,” he said.
Breezy’s sound is a high-energy blend of house, big room and after-hours vibe.
NOW SPINNING ... DJ Seth BreezyAll-Time Favorite DJ Gig: The closing party for Purple Party in 2016. “It was my first headliner slot and the energy was electric. My friends came out in full force. I can still hear the clacking of fans in that room.”
Favorite Chicago Gig: Market Days 2024, but the DayBreak party in 2017 came in a close second-place.
DJs to watch: “I’m a sucker for the classics: Abel,
Ralphi Rosario, Paulo, Tony Moran. Their dedication to the dance floor is unmatched. But shoutout to Chicago’s own Karsten Sollors, who’s been killing it lately. I’m also impressed by Brady Prince, Jace, Jesus Montanez, Alfonso, Alex Ramos, Calagna, GSP, Cindel, and T’Don. Each of them brings something unique to the scene.”
Favorite DJ: “If I had to pick one … Rosabel. Consistent and always elevating the experience.”
Favorite Musician: “Doechii has been giving me life lately.”
Last Concert Attended: Duke Dumont last summer, which was pure magic, he said.
Hobbies: “I’m into working out, producing music, playing basketball, stargazing and spending quality time with my boyfriend.”
Favorite TV Show: The OrvilleFavorite Movie: StargateLittle-Known Fact: “I’m actually a huge psychology nerd. I find the brain fascinating and am currently working toward a master’s degree to become a counselor someday.”
Drinking in The DJ Booth: Vodka soda
It’s A Fact: “I graduated from the Atlanta Institute of Music back in 2011 with a focus on Audio Engineering and Production. Music is my life—it’s always been about making people feel something. Sure, there’s an ego element in DJing, but the real ones know it’s about lifting people up and creating something unforgettable through music and energy. That’s what I want to be remembered for.”