Terry Hunter is a highly respected DJ, producer, and remixer from Chicago, known for his contributions to the evolution of house music, particularly within the subgenre of soulful house. As a key figure in the city's legendary house scene, Hunter began DJing in the 1980s and quickly gained recognition for his ability to craft seamless sets that blended house with elements of funk, R&B, and disco. His deep knowledge of music and commitment to maintaining the soulful roots of house have made him a beloved figure not just in Chicago but across the global dance community.
In addition to his skills behind the decks, Terry Hunter has built an impressive career as a producer and remixer. He’s collaborated with iconic artists such as Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, and Jill Scott, creating soulful, rhythmically rich remixes that have expanded his influence beyond the house music scene. His 2007 remix of Jill Scott's "Hate on Me" became a defining moment in soulful house, and his ability to bridge the gap between classic house and mainstream R&B has given him a unique place in the music industry.
Hunter is also known for his long-standing affiliation with the Chosen Few DJs, a collective that hosts one of the world’s largest house music festivals, the Chosen Few Picnic, held annually in Chicago. His involvement with the event has helped to keep the essence of Chicago house alive, ensuring that its history and cultural significance are celebrated year after year. Throughout his career, Terry Hunter has remained dedicated to elevating the soulful side of house music, becoming a key ambassador of the genre and helping to maintain its authenticity and global appeal.In 1990, Hunter produced his first release "Madness", which became an underground hit.[1] While continuing to DJ in Chicago and beyond, he honed serious production skills, contributing his talents to remixes for top artists, including Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, R. Kelly, Byron Stingily (of Chicago's Ten City), Barbara Tucker and La India.[2] His 1997 track, "Harvest for the World" (a cover of The Isley Brothers track) peaked at #48 on the UK Singles Chart in July that year.[3]
In order to develop the next generation of house music talent, Hunter launched his own label, T's Box Records, in 2004.
In 2006, he became the first new member of Chicago's Chosen Few DJs in nearly 30 years. He was named "Producer of the Year" by 5 Magazine in 2009.[citation needed]
In 2011, Hunter conceived and co-produced the first 'Chicago House DJ Day', bringing together for the first time 100 of the most influential DJs in Chicago house music.