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Latinos were there when the thumping beat of house music first took the Chicago underground scene by storm in the early ‘80s. Hector Lopez, a teenager at the time, was captivated by the sound, and soon would learn the basic moves from his big brother, Dave, who had started spinning back in 1979. Today, the Mexican-American-Chicano DJ from the North Side is a source of influence and inspiration for a new generation of DJs.
 What made you become a DJ?
It would have to be the excitement of watching my brother work his magic on the turntables and [seeing] the crowd’s response. It just blew me away, and I knew then and there it was something I wanted to do. At the time he wasn’t even playing house yet, he was playing R&B and disco. But I felt it... I felt what he and the crowd felt... It was very spiritual. Yes, I was only 13 at the time, but it was amazing how much I learned by just observing. The only time I would have to practice was when my brother was away at work. So, I took full advantage of the little time I had and spent hours learning the breaks and getting my blends down. Needless to say, I learned and I learned quickly.
What role do Latinos play in the Chicago house music scene?
Right now our position in house music is secure. Latinos have been in the house scene since it all started. I know when the word ‘house’ is mentioned people bring up Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy. But, for me, it was guys like Jesse Velez and WBMX’s (Chicago’s no. 1 radio station at the time) Ralphi “The Razz” Rosario who paved the way for me and other Latino DJs. Now, I wish to give back by passing the torch onto the up-and-coming DJs. I’m just proud to be one of the many Latino DJs to have kept the legacy going.
What is your biggest contribution to the local house music scene?
I think I play an essential part on the musical influence of other house DJs due to my position at Gramaphone Records, and my experience and reputation as a connoisseur of house music. I’m hoping that DJs and producers will look up to me as a guide to what they should achieve and expand upon. Look at Martini Ranch, for example. I never had so many other DJs come up to me and thank me for helping them become a better and diverse DJ. They acknowledge how much time and effort I put into my craft, and I guess that’s what separates me from the rest.
Vinyl, Serato (computer software) or CD’s?
There’s no substitution for vinyl, but I could see how others would use an alternative. I’m currently using CD’s when I play out or when I travel. I’m not saying that using Serato is a bad thing. In fact, I think it’s the ideal equipment for a mobile DJ, who needs just about everything from his music library to perform. But, what happens if your computer freezes up? I guess it’s about what’s convenient to the DJ. I just can’t bring myself to use a computer to spin.
What are your favorite places to play in Chicago?
Well, I don’t have a specific place and I wouldn’t want to hurt anybody’s feelings, especially the club owners. I like the smaller venues where it’s more intimate and comfortable. Don’t get me wrong. If I’m asked to play in a bigger club, I’d do it in a second.
What influences your music choices?
I’m pretty diverse when it comes to music. I truly love it all, whether it is house, down tempo, hip hop, techno... Producers like Santana, Stevie Wonder, Louie Vega, Joe Clausell, Blaze, Kenny Larkin, Derrick Carter, house guru Andy Moy and others have influenced me and have given me much to work with. I’m blessed to call most of them my friends.
What’s the biggest difference between house then and now?
The passion and camaraderie for house isn’t there anymore. I don’t blame the [public] because back then they had the radio station [WBMX] to rely on. Now they need to go out to the clubs to get a taste of what’s hot and new. Usually they don’t give the new stuff a chance because it’s not familiar to them. I remember when you would walk into a party and you would see people going nuts – throwing their hands up in the air, jackin’ and singing to the music. I just don’t get that anymore. At least not with the newer stuff. But, believe me, you play some old school and you still get the same response.
What future role do Latinos play in house music?
I am familiar with a lot of the younger DJs and producers, many of them Latinos that are coming into the scene. And these guys are talented, determined and love the music. They have the ability to bring in a younger crowd. They play a lot of the newer stuff, and that’s essential to keeping house alive. They respect the history and want to keep it going. Some of them have already started their own labels, something I have wanted to do myself. I get motivated when I see these young cats moving forward. It keeps me on my toes.
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