Bio
A DJ is more than someone that spins records or gets the party started. A DJ is someone that is the voice of the people; someone that ignites souls and creates the soundtrack to your fondest memories…
Born and raised on Chicago’s Westside, Chill Will gravitated towards record players and albums at an early age while developing a rich love and appreciation for music. His cousin introduced him to the world of spinning records, which led him to becoming the house DJ at his family functions. Although he understood the fundamentals of DJing, he soon realized it was more to the art than just playing what the people wanted to hear.
Will headed to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he built a prestigious name and loyal following. He befriended DJ World and DJ Legacy in 1996 who mentored him for the next year. Despite DJing existing as his first love, he developed a deep interest in the radio and entertainment industries and discovered one of his many callings. He took on several jobs that would add to his extensive knowledge as a DJ. He worked as a production manager and assistant music director at the college radio station, 89.3 WBML. He also used his skills and became an on-air personality and was chosen as DJ of the Year for the station. With his hard work and dedication, he was well respected by his peers as early as his second year of spinning. In addition, he also added sound technician, event promoter and Director of Promotions for the World Entertainment Group/Nitelife Group to his growing resume.
By 1999, Will was known for his ability to breathe life into his records, which allowed him to showcase his talents throughout Chicago. Coming full circle, he had the opportunity to open for his mentor, DJ World for such promoters as Phil and Nate Productions and New Birth Marketing and Promotions. While he enjoyed the art of DJing he soon became disengaged and wanted to focus on his family. But like any true artist, his fans and peers requested his presence back on the scene. He was asked to become the resident DJ at the new hotspot, Chicago’s Crocodile Lounge in 2003. Like a true natural, once he was back in front of his turntables, it was as if he never left. He remained at the Crocodile Lounge and had a successful run for the next three years, but by this time, he had his eyes set on even greener pastures.
Will embarked on a new stage of his career by coming on board as part owner with the privately owned fashion label, Afrodisiak Clothing. He knew the importance of diversifying and utilizing his talents and took his knowledge even further and combined his passion for DJing by working with the youth. He has and continues to conduct several DJ workshops while developing an entrepreneurial program that encourages young people to develop practical businesses. Will recognized the value in mentorship programs and educating the youth and wanted to extend his hand by giving back what was given to him.
Like any gifted artist whose body of work speaks for itself, Will found creative ways to reinvent himself. To keep him as distinctive as his DJ sets, he changed his moniker to Joe Kollege. “I wanted to set myself apart from the rest and rely on my ability to remain unique and continue to take the road less traveled.” Under his new name, he released four mix-tapes: AfroSoul Volumes 1-4. “Afrosoul is an organic blend of soul and hip hop. The CD’s reflect of my style of djing; something that touches your soul, makes you feel good and offers food for thought all at the same time.”
Joe Kollege has played for such media giants as Essence and Uptown Magazines, Hidden Beach Recordings, and countless other corporations. In lieu of his other achievements, Joe Kollege had the honor to travel to Washington DC and deejay during President Barack Obama’s historical Inauguration week. He also participated in the Winter Music Conference in 2009 and 2010 (Miami, FL) and has shared the spotlight with artists such as The Roots, Al B. Sure!, Rueben Studdard, Special Ed, KRS ONE, Robin Thicke, Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick. In addition, he has shared the turntables with the legendary Grandmaster Flash, Kid Capri, DJ Eddie F, Biz Markie, D-Nice, Pete Rock, and DJ Jazzy Jeff. Joe Kollege also opened for former President Bill Clinton and Hip Hop artist/actor Common at an event at House of Blues Chicago in November 2009.
