Mark Knight and James Hurr take on the iconic Joe Smooth classic 'Promised Land', delivering a massive piano-house remix destined to ignite dancefloors worldwide. Knight and Hurr achieve what few producers can—not only reviving a legendary hit but reimagining it through the lens of the modern dance floor. Already a staple in Mark Knight's DJ sets, the new remix is a celebration of everything that makes house music shine: uplifting energy, soaring piano riffs, and an undeniably infectious groove.
Dimitris Kechagias Review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Joe Smooth - Promised Land (Mark Knight & James Hurr Remix) [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Mark Knight and James Hurr breathe new life into Joe Smooth's timeless anthem 'Promised Land' with a dynamic piano-house remix that masterfully blends nostalgia with modern dancefloor energy. This reinterpretation showcases their exceptional production prowess, meticulously balancing the original's soulful essence with contemporary electronic elements. Technically, the remix thrives on a robust 126 BPM framework, tailored for prime-time club sets where energy levels peak. The track opens with crisp percussion layers, establishing an immediate groove that hooks listeners. The drum programming is tight and punchy, featuring well-crafted hi-hats and clap patterns that drive the rhythm forward while maintaining clarity in the mix. Central to the remix's allure are the euphoric piano chords—rich, resonant, and layered for maximum harmonic depth. These soaring riffs not only pay homage to classic house but are enhanced through pristine sound design techniques, including subtle reverb tails and dynamic EQ adjustments that allow the pianos to shine without overpowering the mix. The vocal treatment is equally noteworthy. Knight and Hurr employ selective vocal chops, reverb, and delay effects to maintain the emotive power of Joe Smooth's original performance while integrating it seamlessly into their modern arrangement. The careful use of automation ensures that the vocals ebb and flow with the track’s dynamics, creating moments of introspection before launching back into high-energy sections. From a production standpoint, the track benefits from meticulous mixing and mastering. Each element occupies its sonic space perfectly, with sidechain compression techniques applied subtly to create that signature pulsing effect characteristic of house music. The bassline is warm and groovy, locking in perfectly with the kick drum to provide a solid foundation. Knight and Hurr’s remix of 'Promised Land' is not just a tribute but a technical showcase—demonstrating advanced production techniques, thoughtful arrangement, and a deep understanding of what moves modern dancefloors. This track stands as a testament to their ability to honor house music's roots while pushing its boundaries. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
The album celebrates four decades of house music in a powerful tribute to Smooth’s journey from the underground clubs of Chicago to international acclaim
Legendary house music producer Joe Smooth today released ‘We Shall Overcome’, his first album in over 30 years. Arriving at a poignant moment, the release stands as a deeply personal reflection on his 40-year journey in house music, celebrating the genre’s rich soundscape and the many voices that have shaped his path.
A self-taught musician and DJ since his early teens, Smooth quickly emerged as a foundational force in Chicago’s house music scene. By age 20, he was the head DJ at the iconic Smart Bar and collaborating with genre frontrunners such as Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, and Lil Louis, and producing for artists including Prince and The Art of Noise. In 1983, Smooth co-produced ‘Jack Trax’, one of the earlier house records, featuring ‘Time to Jack’ – the first record in dance music to use the terms “Jack” and “House” and a track widely seen as a cornerstone of house music’s first wave. Just four years later, his seminal track ‘Promised Land’ became a global anthem.
Now, with ‘We Shall Overcome’, Smooth presents a sonic time capsule that blends new compositions with remastered classics, offering a reflective yet progressive journey through the genre’s evolution, told through the eyes of one of its founding pioneers.
Lead single ‘Overcome’, featuring iconic house music vocalist Chuck Roberts alongside Angie Brown and Mr. Root, pays homage to Roberts with a tribute that ensures his voice continues to echo across the scene for decades to come. The album also includes contributions from artists who have reinterpreted Promised Land, including Solomun and Lee Foss, bridging generations of house music and connecting the genre’s roots to today’s global dance culture.
"We Shall Overcome is about more than music: it’s a message," says Joe Smooth. "At a time when the world feels divided, house music continues to bring people together. This album is a celebration of that energy, and of the community that’s carried this culture forward."
As the genre continues to expand and evolve, Smooth emphasizes the need to preserve its roots. “We need to get back to that feeling – house is a feeling. DJs and producers should take more risks and be more intentional with what they create and play. The new generation is hungry for meaning, and this music has always been the soundtrack to real life.”
With ‘We Shall Overcome’, Joe Smooth reaffirms his role not just as a pioneer, but as an utmost champion of house music’s past, present, and future, reminding listeners of its power to uplift, inspire, and unite.
Tracklist: Disc 1 Joe Smooth x Angie Brown x Mr. Root feat. Chuck Roberts - Overcome Joe Smooth - Rain Down On Me Joe Smooth - feat. Maydien & Robert Owens - Crazy World Joe Smooth x DJ K'Alexi feat. Kaleb Searcy & Lushomo - Black Sun Rising Joe Smooth feat. George Clinton - Our Houze Joe Smooth x Slugo feat Wildstyle - I'm Gonna Take you to the House Joe Smooth x Porcelain - Still Loving You Joe Smooth x Angie Brown x Mr. Root - Get Up Everybody Joe Smooth feat Kaleb Searcy - We Got To Love Joe Smooth feat. Black Pearl - I Don't Want Your Love Joe Smooth x Gursahhh x JR. Melon - My Dreams Come True Joe Smooth feat. Alex Bass - Your Love (Georgie Porgie Remix) Joe Smooth - Got That House
Disc 2 Joe Smooth - Promised Land (Solomun Remix) Joe Smooth, Lee Foss - Promised Land Joe Smooth - Promised Land
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Joe Smooth’s We Shall Overcome is a dynamic two-disc collection that not only celebrates the depth and evolution of house music but also stands as a testament to advanced production techniques and meticulous craftsmanship. This collection bridges classic vibes with contemporary sounds through sophisticated layering and innovative sound design. Tracks like "Overcome," featuring Angie Brown, Mr. Root, and Chuck Roberts, showcase powerful vocal processing techniques. The vocals are enhanced with dynamic EQ, subtle reverb layering, and careful compression to maintain clarity and emotional impact. The uplifting beats are crafted using a mix of analog drum machines and digital sequencers, creating a rich, warm texture synonymous with classic house. “Rain Down On Me” and “Crazy World” bring soulful melodies to the forefront, thanks to the use of vintage synthesizers like the Roland Juno-106, coupled with modern soft-synths for harmonic layering. The contributions from Maydien & Robert Owens are emphasized through intricate vocal harmonization techniques and stereo imaging, giving the tracks a spacious, immersive feel. "Black Sun Rising" stands out with its complex rhythmic structures. The collaboration with DJ K'Alexi, Kaleb Searcy, and Lushomo highlights Joe Smooth’s knack for polyrhythmic layering and syncopation. The track employs sidechain compression to maintain groove consistency while allowing the bassline to breathe alongside intricate percussive elements. "Our Houze" with George Clinton seamlessly infuses funk elements into house grooves through live bass recordings, processed with envelope filters and analog saturation, creating a groovy, organic feel. "Still Loving You" featuring Porcelain uses atmospheric pads, granular synthesis, and meticulous automation to add emotional depth, enhancing the dynamic flow of the album. The second disc is anchored by multiple renditions of the iconic "Promised Land." The Solomun Remix introduces a darker, club-friendly vibe achieved through deep sub-bass synthesis, minimalist drum patterns, and extensive use of reverb and delay effects to create a haunting atmosphere. The low-pass filter automation adds a dynamic progression, making the track evolve seamlessly over time. The collaboration with Lee Foss offers a fresh, modern twist with elements of tech-house. Here, sidechain ducking, modular synthesis, and glitch effects are employed to add texture and depth, while maintaining the soulful essence of the original. The intricate drum programming with off-beat hi-hats and syncopated claps adds a contemporary flair, pushing the rhythmic boundaries. We Shall Overcome is a masterclass in blending soulful house with contemporary electronic elements. Joe Smooth’s production process reflects a deep understanding of both analog warmth and digital precision. Each track is meticulously crafted using advanced mixing and mastering techniques—parallel compression, multi-band EQ, and stereo widening—to create a cohesive, inspiring journey. This album is both reflective and celebratory, paying homage to the roots of house music while pushing its creative boundaries. From a technical standpoint, it showcases an evolution in sound design and production artistry, making it a standout in modern electronic music.#PureGold Love IT[/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
About Joe Smooth
Joe Smooth is one the originators of the genre of music called “House Music” and since 1983 has been considered one of the top DJ's in Chicago, a highly skilled sound engineer, and world class certified platinum producer/composer/writer/re-mixer.
A self-taught musician from the age of 12, Joe Smooth is one of the pioneers of the style of music known today as “House Music”. He has worked with such artists as Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Chip E, A Guy Called Gerald, Lil Louis, Tyree Cooper, Fast Eddie, The Art Of Noise, Sterling Void, The Pet Shop Boys, Janet Jackson, Atlantic Starr, New Order, Steve Hurley... and countless more.
At 18, he opened his first underground nightclub called East Hollywood Mannequins. At 20 he became the head DJ at the now world famous Smart Bar nightclub, his nights attracted 2,000 people and DJ’s Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy would come listen to Joe’s sets looking for music to take back and play at their respective clubs, Joe Smooth’s musical prowess was the one instrumental factor that shaped the atmosphere and mystique that still lives at Smart Bar going into its 40th year.
In 1984 Joe Smooth joined the DJ International Records family. After joining the DJ International family he quickly became a central force behind almost everything written or produced from this visionary label. This included Co-producing The Jack Trax EP with Chip-E, the first record to use the words House and Jack. Many say this was the first true house record. Joe also co-produced and mixed Frankie Knuckles' first record, the remake of "You Can't Hide".
In 1985, the Limelight looked at Joe as the number one DJ in Chicago and propositioned Joe for their Chicago nightclub as musical coordinator. In 1987 along with Limelight, he also started working for the soulful Charlie club nightclub as head DJ/musical coordinator and penned one of the greatest house anthems of all time "Promised Land". In 1988, with musical production work at a high, Joe traveled abroad to put his concentration fully into his production, DJ gigs and Performing.
In 1990 CNN commissioned Joe Smooth to write a song as the music bed to be played during the airing of Nelson Mandela’s release after 27 years in prison. This song called “They Want To Be Free” talked about the wrongs of apartheid and oppression of the African people. Later in 1990 returning to Chicago from great success abroad, Joe saw a need for a serious underground house club in Chicago and opened the very successful Warehouse nightclub, named in tribute to the legendary Warehouse nightclub of the late seventies and early eighties with partners Julian Perez and DJ Internationals founder Rocky Jones.
In 1994 Joe’s sought after talent led him to Rome to partner on a label called "Active Bass Music" with famous producer Claudio Donato. Which ran until 1999.
In 1999 Joe Smooth returned home to Chicago and did extensive work with Slang Music Group and Nu Soul until 2005. Joe's work at Slang and Nu Soul would include projects featuring Whitney Houston, Donnell Jones, Destiny’s Child and Sisqo and earn a multitude of Gold and Platinum RIAA awards.
From 2005 till today Joe’s “Obelisk Production Multimedia and Indie Art Music”” labels have released a string of house hits and has songs signed from worldwide artist such as Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, K Ci and George Clinton, as well as more underground and up and coming artist and is currently in negotiations for worldwide distribution through a major distribution network.
Joe Smooth has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve and is often sought after to consult and mentor some of the world’s greatest producers, DJ’s and labels, like Ultra, Armada and Sony. He has a Joint Venture deal with Armada Music Group, he is currently an ambassador for The School of House based out of Amsterdam, working with a multitude of platinum artist worldwide, collaborating with Global DJ powerhouses like Benny Benassi and Alex Gaudino and working with the great charity organization LNADJ(Last Night A DJ). He is also one of the original organizers of Chicago’s Largest house music events held in Millennium Park yearly “The Chicago House Music Festival” and “The House Legacy Project” attracting 50,000 plus over the Memorial Day weekend. Joe Smooth has also expanded his role in the entertainment community in the role as producer and co-producer for TV and Film, involved in productions like “Casting Call Reality Show” created by Faith Diggs, which can be seen on Firestick and Roku station ENVIO TV.
Armada Music is the biggest independent dance music label in the world. Founded by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron (CEO) and David Lewis, the label manages an ever-growing catalog of over 50,000 tracks built up across twenty-plus years of specialized dance music exploitation.
Representing artists such as Armin van Buuren, ARTY, D.O.D, Eelke Kleijn, Jan Blomqvist, Joris Voorn, KI/KI, Lilly Palmer, Loud Luxury, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, THEMBA and Yulia Niko, Armada Music amasses more than one billion streams per month, airplay on leading radio outlets such as BBC Radio 1 and Sirius XM, and top positions in the world’s most notable charts. Significant label milestones include Armin van Buuren's Grammy nomination for 'This Is What It Feels Like' and two tracks surpassing one billion streams on Spotify: Loud Luxury and Brando’s ‘Body’ and Lost Frequencies’ ‘Are You With Me’.
Across offices in Amsterdam (HQ), New York, London and Laren (NL), Armada Music offers a global appeal to its growing roster. The label has its own club, radio studio and multiple production studios, and hosts various live formats. Producer platform Armada University, which offers educational products and opportunities, shows the label’s sustained effort to nurture the next wave of talent.
Full of funk flavor, ‘Our Houze!’ is the final track leading up to Joe Smooth’s new album. Sampling Funk legend George Clinton as well as the effervescent disco tune ‘Everyman’, this track brings lightness, freshness and playfulness to the dance floor.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Joe Smooth's "Our Houze!" emerges as a vibrant culmination leading up to his much-anticipated new album. Rooted deeply in funk influences, the track showcases impeccable production techniques that both honor the genre's legacy and push its boundaries. From a technical standpoint, "Our Houze!" operates at a steady 122 BPM—ideal for maintaining infectious energy on the dance floor without overwhelming the listener. The rhythmic backbone is constructed with crisp, punchy kick drums paired with a subtly layered snare, creating a foundational groove that invites movement. The hi-hats are programmed with a syncopated flair, adding dynamic texture and enhancing the track's forward momentum. Delving into the production process, Joe Smooth employs meticulous sample integration. By weaving in elements from Funk legend George Clinton, he infuses the track with rich, soulful undertones that resonate with authenticity. The disco-inspired flair, courtesy of samples from "Everyman," injects effervescence, blending seamlessly with modern house aesthetics. These samples are treated with precision—filtered, EQed, and occasionally pitch-shifted to align harmonically with the track’s key. Another standout feature is the vocal sampling technique. Smooth utilizes chopped and looped vocal snippets, strategically panned and layered to create an engaging call-and-response effect. This not only adds to the track’s playful nature but also ensures continuous auditory interest. The interlocking groove is a masterclass in arrangement. Basslines are crafted with warm, analog synths, providing a lush, rolling foundation that complements the rhythmic elements. Subtle automation on filters and reverb parameters introduces fluidity, allowing the track to breathe and evolve organically throughout its duration. Overall, "Our Houze!" is not just a track—it’s an experience. Joe Smooth’s adept fusion of funk, disco, and house elements, combined with his technical prowess in production, guarantees its dominance on club floors worldwide. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
Chicago-born DJ, producer and Hot Creations/Repopulate Mars founder Lee Foss has reworked fellow Chicago legend Joe Smooth’s ‘Promised Land’ for a new version of the bonafide house classic, released today on Armada Music. This disco-infused, club-ready rework is perfectly poised to dominate dance floors worldwide, uniting seasoned ravers and new fans alike around the anthem.
Joe Smooth’s ‘Promised Land’ remains one of the most celebrated records in house music. Released in the late '80s, the track quickly became an anthem within the burgeoning Chicago house music scene, resonating deeply with its message of love and acceptance on dance floors worldwide. Upon release, ‘Promised Land’ reached at #56 in the UK Singles Chart, earned the 20th spot in Mixmag’s “100 Greatest Dance Singles of All Time” in 1996 and ranked fourth on DJ Mag’s “Top 100 Club Tunes” in 1998. The track’s enduring legacy includes appearances in video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004) and the 2024 film All Of Us Strangers.
Now, Chicago scene frontrunner Lee Foss breathes new life into the classic, elevating the hit with a dance floor-ready production. Underlining the timelessness of the vocal hook with new piano chords, brisk stutters and a nostalgic disco twist, this rendition amplifies the original track’s undeniable ability to stand the test of time.
“‘Promised Land’ is one of my all-time favorite Chicago house classics and has given me so many moments of joy, both DJing and on the dance floor,” says Lee Foss. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to remake this iconic track and reimagine its story for a new generation of ravers and clubbers. I'm excited to see this fresh take connect with audiences all over the world.”
“It’s incredible to witness the lasting impact of ‘Promised Land’ over the years, especially among some of the genre’s most influential figures like Lee Foss,” adds Joe Smooth. “The song’s message remains close to my heart, and I’m deeply grateful for versions like this that keep ‘Promised Land’ resonating with new generations.”
Dimitris Kechagias Review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Lee Foss & Joe Smooth - Promised Land [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] Lee Foss reimagines Joe Smooth’s seminal house track, “Promised Land,” incorporating disco elements to create a contemporary rendition for a new audience. The original, released in the late 1980s, remains an enduring anthem within the Chicago house music community. Foss’s remix skillfully combines modern techno house rhythms, playful basslines, electronic synthy riffs, and metallic percussion with the original vocals. This fusion results in a captivating track that resonates with young individuals who aspire to achieve their personal goals despite obstacles and challenges. The song’s powerful social message is reintroduced in 2024 through this distinctive futuristic interpretation, which will appeal to those who embrace innovation and revel in groundbreaking productions. It is certain to induce a sense of joy and movement through its infectious danceability. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
About Lee Foss
Chicago DJ and producer Lee Foss has achieved global recognition as an innovator of the modern underground house sound. His superb and unique ear for music is celebrated through the acclaimed releases on his award winning record labels Hot Creations and Repopulate Mars.
Lee’s love for house and disco was sparked during his adolescence in Chicago throughout the 90s, however, a trip to Ibiza in 2001 where he met best friend and copartner Jamie Jones changed his musical destiny forever. Inspired by the electro and deep house parties in Ibiza and East London at the time, they formed a band and produced chart-topping records together under their Hot Natured alias.
In 2008, Lee and Jamie founded Hot Creations and pioneered a new distinctive sound born of the founders’ deep affinity with soul and disco records. Notably, ‘Benediction’ and ‘Reverse Skydiving’ from the album Different Sides of The Sun by Hot Natured charted in the UK Singles Chart. In present day, the label was awarded Record Label of The Year by DJ Awards in 2019 and boasts productions by some of the most elite names in the industry such as Patrick Topping, Richy Ahmed, Solardo, Steve Lawler and wAFF.
In 2018, Lee launched Repopulate Mars and brought together the best names in house and techno under the label to achieve DJ Mag’s Best Breakthrough Label in the same year. Its intergalactic events have showcased internationally at renowned venues such as Space Miami and EGG London as well as securing co-branded ventures with top promoters Elrow and Insomniac.
Additionally, Lee runs sub-labels South of Saturn and Emerald City, exhibiting his comprehensive musical knowledge as well as a dauntless and experimental attitude to music that solidifies his legacy as a nonpareil industry trendsetter.
Joe Smooth is one the originators of the genre of music called “House Music” and since 1983 has been considered one of the top DJ's in Chicago, a highly skilled sound engineer, and world class certified platinum producer/composer/writer/re-mixer.
A self-taught musician from the age of 12, Joe Smooth is one of the pioneers of the style of music known today as “House Music”. He has worked with such artists as Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Chip E, A Guy Called Gerald, Lil Louis, Tyree Cooper, Fast Eddie, The Art Of Noise, Sterling Void, The Pet Shop Boys, Janet Jackson, Atlantic Starr, New Order, Steve Hurley... and countless more.
At 18, he opened his first underground nightclub called east Hollywood Mannequins. At 20, he became the head DJ at the now world famous Smart Bar nightclub, his nights attracted 2,000 people and DJ’s Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy would come listen to Joe’s sets looking for music to take back and play at their respective clubs, Joe Smooth’s musical prowess was the one instrumental factor that shaped the atmosphere and mystique that still lives at Smart Bar going into its 40th year.
In 1984, Joe Smooth joined the DJ International Records family. After joining the DJ International family he quickly became a central force behind almost everything written or produced from this visionary label. This included Co-producing The Jack Trax EP with Chip-E, the first record to use the words House and Jack. Many say this was the first true house record. Joe also Co-produced and mixed Frankie Knuckles' first record, the remake of "You Can't Hide".
In 1985, the Limelight looked at Joe as the number one DJ in Chicago and propositioned Joe for their Chicago nightclub as musical coordinator.
In 1987, along with Limelight, he also started working for the soulful Charlie club nightclub as head DJ/musical coordinator and penned one of the greatest house anthems of all time "Promised Land".
In 1988, with musical production work at a high Joe traveled abroad to put his concentration fully into his production, DJ gigs and Performing.
In 1990, CNN commissioned Joe Smooth to write a song as the music bed to be played during the airing of Nelson Mandela’s release after 27 years in prison. This song called “They Want To Be Free” talked about the wrongs of apartheid and oppression of the African people. Later in 1990 returning to Chicago from great success abroad, Joe saw a need for a serious underground house club in Chicago and opened the very successful Warehouse nightclub, named in tribute to the legendary Warehouse nightclub of the late seventies and early eighties with partners Julian Perez and DJ Internationals founder Rocky Jones. In 1994 Joe’s sought after talent led him to Rome to partner on a label called "Active Bass Music" with famous producer Claudio Donato. Which ran until 1999.
In 1999 Joe Smooth returned home to Chicago and did extensive work with Slang Music Group and Nu Soul until 2005. Joe's work at Slang and Nu Soul would include projects featuring Whitney Houston, Donnell Jones, Destiny’s Child and Sisqo and earn a multitude of Gold and Platinum RIAA awards.
From 2005 till today Joe’s “Obelisk Production Multimedia and Indie Art Music”” labels have released a string of house hits and has songs signed from worldwide artist such as Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, K Ci and George Clinton, as well as more underground and up and coming artist and is currently in negotiations for worldwide distribution through a major distribution network.
Joe Smooth has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve and is often sought after to consult and mentor some of the world’s greatest producers, DJ’s and labels, like Ultra, Armada and Sony. He has a Joint Venture deal with Armada Music Group, he is currently an ambassador for The School of House based out of Amsterdam, working with a multitude of platinum artist worldwide, collaborating with Global DJ powerhouses like Benny Benassi and Alex Gaudino and working with the great charity organization LNADJ(Last Night A DJ). He is also one of the original organizers of Chicago’s Largest house music events held in Millennium Park yearly “The Chicago House Music Festival” and “The House Legacy Project” attracting 50,000 plus over the Memorial Day weekend. Joe Smooth has also expanded his role in the entertainment community in the role as producer and co-producer for TV and Film, involved in productions like “Casting Call Reality Show” created by Faith Diggs, Which can be seen on Firestick and Roku station ENVIO TV.
Armada Music is the biggest independent dance music label in the world. Founded by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron (CEO) and David Lewis, the label manages an ever-growing catalog of over 40,000 tracks, built up across twenty-plus years of specialized dance music exploitation.
Representing artists such as Armin van Buuren, ARTY, D.O.D, Eelke Kleijn, Jan Blomqvist, Loud Luxury, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Tensnake, THEMBA and Yulia Niko, Armada Music amasses more than one billion streams per month, airplay on leading radio outlets such as BBC Radio 1 and Sirius XM, and top positions in the world’s most notable charts. The label also takes great pride in major achievements such as Armin van Buuren’s GRAMMY nomination for ‘This Is What It Feels Like’, Loud Luxury and Brando’s ‘Body’ surpassing one billion streams on Spotify and breaking artists such as Lost Frequencies into global stardom.
Across offices in Amsterdam (HQ), New York, London and Laren (NL), Armada Music offers a truly global appeal to its growing roster. The label has its own club, radio studio and multiple production studios, and hosts various live formats. Producer platform Armada University, which offers educational products and opportunities, shows the label’s sustained effort to nurture the next wave of talent.
In 2023, Armada Music launched BEAT Music Fund, the world’s first dance music investment company, that acquires catalogs with the mission of honoring, representing and reinvigorating them. BEAT’s portfolio will continue to grow; in the first six months following its launch, BEAT acquired the catalogs of, among others, electronic music star ARTY, house and techno pioneer Kevin Saunderson’s KMS Records, legendary NYC-based house label King Street Sounds and chart-topping producers Chocolate Puma.
London-based DJ and producer Jake Stewart, aka 1-800 GIRLS, lands on Armada Music today with a remix of Joe Smooth’s 1987 house classic ‘Promised Land’. Reiterating an empowering message across deep pads and brisk breakbeats, this new version promises a psychedelic, new-wave twist without losing the essence of the original.
Promised Land was previously ranked #20 in Mixmag’s “100 Greatest Dance Singles of All Time” (1996) and #4 in DJ Mag’s “Top 100 Club Tunes” (1998).
Gaining widespread recognition from legends including Pete Tong, Solomun, Anja Schneider and Nicole Moudaber, 1-800 GIRLS’ distinct sound blends percussive rhythms, ethereal melodies and atmospheric textures to evoke a subdued nostalgia that hits a sweet spot in the UK rave scene.
Dimitri Kechagias review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"] Joe Smooth - Promised Land (1-800 GIRLS Remix)[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Joe Smooth's anthem Promised Land is one of my favorite tracks in the house music history thanks to its great danceable rhythm and the fantastic vocals with the so important and vital lyrics that nowadays with all the wars and massacres of people around the world becomes extremely significant. The message of peace, unity and common action to solve any social injustice is definitely must be highlighted and talked about particularly to the young generation who think that everything is bought and sold by money. 1-800 GIRLS Remix takes the original in the electronica department for a nice chillin out dreamy version with airy smooth sounds and tripping out breaks. The vocals stay in the background serving their purpose well. The result is a beautiful motivating early morning or late night listening experience. #PureGold Love iT[/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
About Armada Music
Armada Music is the biggest independent dance music label in the world. Founded by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron (CEO) and David Lewis, the label manages an ever-growing catalog of over 40,000 tracks, built up across twenty-plus years of specialized dance music exploitation.
Representing artists such as Armin van Buuren, ARTY, D.O.D, Eelke Kleijn, Jan Blomqvist, Loud Luxury, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Tensnake, THEMBA and Yulia Niko, Armada Music amasses more than one billion streams per month, airplay on leading radio outlets such as BBC Radio 1 and Sirius XM, and top positions in the world’s most notable charts. The label also takes great pride in major achievements such as Armin van Buuren’s GRAMMY nomination for ‘This Is What It Feels Like’, Loud Luxury and Brando’s ‘Body’ surpassing one billion streams on Spotify and breaking artists such as Lost Frequencies into global stardom.
Across offices in Amsterdam (HQ), New York, London and Laren (NL), Armada Music offers a truly global appeal to its growing roster. The label has its own club, radio studio and multiple production studios, and hosts various live formats. Producer platform Armada University, which offers educational products and opportunities, shows the label’s sustained effort to nurture the next wave of talent.
In 2023, Armada Music launched BEAT Music Fund, the world’s first dance music investment company, that acquires catalogs with the mission of honoring, representing and reinvigorating them. BEAT’s portfolio will continue to grow; in the first six months following its launch, BEAT acquired the catalogs of, among others, electronic music star ARTY, house and techno pioneer Kevin Saunderson’s KMS Records, legendary NYC-based house label King Street Sounds and chart-topping producers Chocolate Puma.
