House Music History 101: Cajmere
Cajmere
Cajmere, whose real name is Curtis Alan Jones, is a prominent figure in the house and electronic music scene. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he is best known for his significant contributions to the Chicago house music genre. (He also produces music under the alias Green Velvet).
Cajmere started making waves in the early 1990s. His breakthrough came with the track "Coffee Pot (It's Time for the Percolator)" released in 1991. This track became a classic in the house music genre, characterized by its catchy and repetitive hook.
Under the Green Velvet alias, Jones explored a darker, more techno-influenced sound. Notable tracks include “Voicemail”, “BARBEE”, "Flash" and "La La Land," which became anthems in clubs worldwide. The Green Velvet persona allowed him to push boundaries and innovate within the electronic music scene.
In 1992, he founded Cajual Records, which became a pivotal platform for Chicago house music. The label supported and released music from various influential house artists, further establishing Chicago as a house music epicenter.
Cajmere’s music often features quirky, playful elements combined with deep, infectious grooves. His tracks are known for their strong basslines, funky rhythms, and distinctive vocal samples. This style has influenced countless producers and DJs in the house music community, especially the current tech-house sub genre.
Over the years, Cajmere has collaborated with numerous artists and producers, further cementing his influence. His work has inspired a new generation of house and electronic music producers, blending traditional Chicago house elements with contemporary sounds.
His work has earned him a place among the absolute legends of house music. His contributions are frequently acknowledged in retrospectives and documentaries about the history of house music. Tracks like "Percolator" and "La La Land" remain staples in DJ sets around the world.
Despite being active since the early 1990s, Cajmere/Green Velvet continues to release new music and perform globally. His ability to adapt and innovate has kept him relevant in the ever-evolving electronic music scene. Green Velvet has performed with modern day favorites like John Summit, Dom Dolla, Chris Lake, and so on.
Here is Green Velvet playing B2B with John Summit at this year’s recent EDC in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Cajmere, aka Green Velvet, has had a profound impact on house and electronic music. His innovative tracks, influential label, and distinctive style have left an indelible mark on the genre. As both a pioneer and a continual innovator, Curtis Alan Jones’s contributions have helped shape the sound and culture of house music, influencing countless artists and enthusiasts around the world.
