At Soldier Field, the Chicago Bears DJs play a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere for both fans and players during games. Jay iLLa, the Bears’ practice and pregame DJ since 2015, shared an anecdote from Week 3 of the 2018 season when he played “Swag Surf” in the pregame, contributing to the birth of the celebrated ‘Club Dub.’ Despite his pivotal role, iLLa acknowledges the lack of credit for his impact.
Drawing inspiration from his deep love for hip-hop, iLLa, one of the four Bears DJs, combines various genres to maintain high energy during practices and pregames, irrespective of the team’s record. While players seldom make music requests, iLLa relies on his club experience to create motivating vibes for the team.
During games, the musical responsibilities transition to DJ Jay Funk in the public-address room. In his eighth season with the Bears, Funk, who also works with other sports teams, considers DJing as his art form. He emphasizes the need to control the energy in the stadium, tailoring the music to evoke specific emotions in both fans and players.
Funk strategically selects songs based on the in-game situation, considering factors like the quarter, score, and defensive or offensive plays. He aims to amplify the crowd’s enthusiasm when needed and calm it down during crucial moments for the defense. Unseen but actively involved, Funk plays a pivotal role in the overall game day experience.
Both iLLa and Funk acknowledge the challenges of their job, particularly when the team is not performing well. As fans themselves, they empathize with the frustrations but stress the importance of maintaining a level-headed approach. Despite a 5-8 team record and injuries, they strive to keep Soldier Field upbeat and fans engaged.
Beyond the main game, DJ Sasha at the Dr Pepper Patio and DJ Marquee at the Miller Lite Ultimate Tailgate contribute to the pre-game festivities, setting the mood for fans entering Soldier Field. They aim to create an atmosphere that connects people and generates excitement for the upcoming game.
The DJs, passionate about their role, highlight the significance of fan energy for both them and the team. Using music as a tool to enhance the atmosphere, they continue to play a vital part in supporting the Bears, even incorporating Chicago’s rich music culture into their playlists. Despite challenges, the DJs remain committed to their mission of infusing energy and enthusiasm into every Bears game.
Leave a Reply